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Outer Banks Oceanfront Dunes: The Line of Defense

A robust dune system is the "insurance policy" of an oceanfront home. While they look like ancient natural formations, the primary dunes of the OBX have a fascinating—and partially man-made—history.

The "CCC" Legacy: Crafting the Coastline

During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the WPA undertook a massive engineering feat. To protect the coast and provide jobs, thousands of young men built millions of feet of sand fencing and planted millions of sprigs of sea grass.

This effort created the continuous "barrier dune" that now protects NC Highway 12 and thousands of homes. Before this, the islands were much flatter, allowing the ocean to wash over them more frequently during storms.

Where to See Natural Dunes

Natural "migratory" dunes still exist where the CCC didn't intervene. You can see these massive, shifting hills at:

  • Jockey’s Ridge State Park: The tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic coast.
  • Duck & Southern Shores: High natural ridges like those on Buffel Head Drive and Hillcrest Drive.
  • Wright Brothers Memorial: The "Big Kill Devil Hill" where the first flights took place.

Building Your Own Defense: Methods & Permits

Property owners can take active steps to strengthen the dune line in front of their homes. However, because dunes are "Areas of Environmental Concern," all work requires a CAMA Minor Permit.

1. Sand Fencing (Passive Building)

By trapping wind-blown sand, fences can build a 10-foot tall dune over just one or two seasons.

The 45-Degree Rule: For maximum efficiency, install fences in short 10-foot sections at a 45-degree angle to the shoreline (Northwest to Southeast). This catches the powerful winter Nor'easters.

2. Beach Pushing (Mechanical)

Hiring a bulldozer to push sand up from the intertidal zone. This is typically done at low tide during the winter months.

2026 Restriction: Nags Head and other towns generally prohibit beach pushing in areas that have recently undergone "Beach Nourishment" to protect the newly placed sand profile.

3. Sand Trucking (The Best Results)

Bringing in compatible sand from off-site. While the most expensive, this "replaces" lost volume rather than just moving existing sand around, making it the most sustainable choice for the beach's health.

CAMA Compliance Note

Anything you do on the beach—even planting sea oats—requires coordination with your local CAMA officer. Violations can lead to heavy fines and the required removal of your work.

View NC Coastal Management Permit Guide

Unsure if your dune is "healthy"? I can walk the lot with you and identify if your dune is building or eroding. Call 1-800-647-1868.

More Ocean Front Aricles
OBX Beach Nourishment OBX Oceanfront Flood Zones OBX Oceanfront Rental Ownership
OBX Oceanfront Access OBX Oceanfront Erosion OBX Oceanfront Erosion Maps
OBX Oceanfront Views OBX Oceanfront Insurance OBX Private Oceanfront Beaches
OBX Oceanfront Dunes OBX Oceanfront Wash Ins OBX Oceanfront Maintenance

Below Are All Of The OBX Ocean Front Houses Currently For Sale

AVAILABLE TO SHOW 6/8 & 6/11-6/13! Welcome to Herbie’s, your classic OCEANFRONT beach cottage in the heart of Kill Devil Hills. This 4-BEDROOM, 2-BATH coastal retreat offers sweeping, unobstructed ocean views and the timeless charm of an Outer Banks getaway, all just steps from the sand. Wake up to the sound of the waves and enjoy breathtaking ocean views from many rooms throughout the home. Spend your mornings on the screened porch enjoying the ocean breeze, or soak up the sunshine from the spacious sun deck that wraps from the back to the side of the home. Inside, the home features a classic and functional beach cottage layout designed with comfort and gathering in mind. The open living area and kitchen are centrally located, both positioned to take advantage of the ocean views. Durable tile flooring throughout the main living space makes beach living easy after long days in the sand and surf. The layout offers excellent functionality for families and guests alike. The spacious king bedroom features a private ensuite bath with a tiled shower, while the remaining 3 bedrooms share a second full bath with a tub. Sleeping arrangements include a king bedroom, 2 queen bedrooms, and a bunk room, providing plenty of space for family and friends. The septic permit is for 3 bedrooms; however, the home has long functioned as a TRUE 4-BEDROOM, 2-BATH property. Herbie’s underwent an extensive renovation in 2013 when the owners took the home DOWN TO THE STUDS. Major improvements included new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, doors, roof, kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, and more, blending classic beach cottage character with updated systems and finishes. The septic system was replaced in 2025. Centrally located in Kill Devil Hills, Herbie’s places you close to some of the Outer Banks’ favorite local spots. Grab your morning coffee from Ashley’s Espresso Parlour, treat yourself at Mom’s Sweet Shop, or easily explore nearby restaurants, shopping, and attractions. The convenient central location offers easy access to all the best of the Outer Banks while still enjoying the privacy and beauty of oceanfront living. Herbie’s has also proven itself as a STRONG RENTAL PERFORMER. After joining a new rental program in January 2025, the property generated OVER $100,000 IN GROSS RENTAL INCOME during its first year, even with owners reserving personal use time. Already, approximately $75,000 is on the books for 2026 with bookings continuing to come in. For additional rental information, reviews, and booking details, visit the rental website here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1316054910352994841?unique_share_id=838f619a-0c11-462a-8425-6fdaddeedfb2&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76&source_impression_id=p3_1779963015_P3xgkcbHdYKrSYD3 From its stunning ocean views and thoughtful layout to its strong rental history and unbeatable location, Herbie’s captures the essence of classic Outer Banks oceanfront living.
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12 bd
12 ba
One of the most well-appointed and premier homes on the Outer Banks, this oceanfront estate is almost 10,000 sq ft of living space and was constructed in 2018 in the world-class Palmer’s Island community. Capable of generating OVER $700K in rental income per year, the home is an amazing investment and an idyllic summer home. You'll be hard pressed to find a home on the Outer Banks that has this kind of income potential, lot size and privacy, amazing unobstructed ocean to sound views, and unique amenities. Situated on over an acre of land with 150 feet of oceanfront, the property boasts expansive panoramic views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Currituck Sound to the west.  This pristine home is designed to fuse the classic coastal shingle style of historic Outer Banks cottages and the shingle style of the north, with modern touches throughout in a location where privacy and seclusion are paramount.  A private boat dock and ramp on the Currituck Sound offers access to boating, kayaking and fishing. The nearby Pine Island Racquet Club, Sanderling Resort, and Currituck Club Golf Course offer indoor tennis, Spa, indoor pool and fitness club, exclusive restaurants, and premier golf respectively. Located in between the towns of Duck and Corolla, Palmer’s Island can also be accessed by landing a private plane at the nearby Pine Island airport and is just over an hour away from the Norfolk airport. This coastal retreat features 12 luxurious ensuite bedrooms, hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen, multiple living areas and kitchenettes, it's own theatre room, game room with arcades pool table, private elevator, laundry facilities on each level, custom tiled bathrooms, and even it’s own private English Pub on the top level. Outside, the private 24’ x 50’ heated pool and poolside cabana feature a relaxing lounge area with outdoor entertainment, grilling area, and two hot tubs that flow into an impressive game area under the home with mini golf, shuffleboard and ping pong, corn hole, horseshoes, and rock climbing wall.  Step out onto the private boardwalk to the beach leading to a dune-top sun deck and easy access to the beach. The home is elevated over the dune (no flood insurance required) and offers exquisite views of the stunning coastal landscape from all levels, allowing you to take in both sunrises and sunsets from every level. Four of the twelve master bedrooms are large luxurious suites, each with private deck access, custom baths, and comfortable furnishings. The additional eight master bedrooms have their own private bath as well, two of which are unique kids rooms with built in bunk beds. You will not find a more perfect home on the beach, and it’s no wonder it was recognized as the winner of the Judges award of Excellence and People’s Choice award in the 2018 OBX Parade of Homes.
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10 bd
9 ba
Experience the best of Corolla living in this stunning 10-bedroom oceanfront retreat. Perfectly positioned to capture sweeping Atlantic views, this expansive coastal home offers the ideal blend of luxury, comfort, and income potential, consistently boasting over $300K in annual income. The home features an elevator for easy access to all levels, a home theatre, and a spacious game room for endless entertainment. Step outside to your private pool, tiki bar, and hot tub, or head straight to the beach from your oceanfront walkway.
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Welcome to your dream coastal retreat in Southern Shores. This beautifully updated oceanfront home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and location. Featuring 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 of which offer expansive ocean views, a private pool, and a brand-new hot tub, this property is designed for relaxing and entertaining. Projected to do over $208,000 in annual rental income! Confidently nestled in town with easy access to local shops, dining, and attractions, the home sits on a gorgeous stretch of wide beach, ideal for sunrises, sandcastles, and sunset strolls. Recent upgrades include a refinished pool, new hot tub, new private beach walkway, and all-new windows and siding, new top level HVAC, and new hot water heater, ensuring modern style and peace of mind. Whether you’re seeking a serene getaway or a standout investment, this oceanfront gem is ready to deliver. Don’t miss your chance to own a slice of paradise!
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Experience the pinnacle of coastal living at this oceanfront home in Kill Devil Hills where the Atlantic Ocean serves as your literal backyard. This ultimate vacation destination offers a rare combination of immediate beach access and unobstructed, panoramic views on 100 ft of oceanfront. Whether you are sipping coffee on the screened in porch, falling asleep to the rhythmic sound of the surf, or walking to the nearby Avalon Pier, the connection to the shoreline is constant and unparalleled, making it a top-tier destination for vacationers. Distinguished by its unique architectural flair, the home breaks away from the "cookie-cutter" beach box mold with a one-of-a-kind layout. Spanning over 2,800 square feet, the interior is thoughtfully designed to maximize both natural light and the stunning ocean horizon with two multilevel wings connected by the main living area. The floor plan expertly balances open social areas with private retreats, featuring strategic window placements that ensure the sea is a permanent fixture of every space. Outside, you'll enjoy your own private walkway to the beach and dune top deck, perfect for taking in the Outer Banks sunrise.  Pride of ownership is evident in every corner of this well-maintained property. Regular updates and preventative maintenance ensure it remains in peak "turnkey" condition. From aesthetic refreshes to structural integrity, the care poured into this residence protects your investment and minimizes future overhead. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a strong beachfront investment with architectural distinction and peace of mind that only a well-cared-for home can provide. The private septic is only rated for 4 bedrooms total, but home is furnished and rented as a 6-bedroom home. If continuing as a 6-bedroom, rental projections have the home earning $195K in annual income. Current owners use the home themselves frequently as is, leaving a lot of potential to increase income!
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9 bd
10 ba
548 sq ft
Prepare to be captivated by this phenomenal oceanfront haven, a rare offering that seamlessly blends luxury, privacy, and unmatched investment potential. History speaks for itself…with 2023-2026 rental income exceeding $250K annually. Appropriately named “Rising Sun” and ideally located in the Salvo oceanfront community, this 22,500 sq. ft. lot boasts a solid dune line with uninterrupted ocean views from sunrise to sunset. The ground level is total paradise. Dive into the resort-style pool zone with a dreamy waterfall, swim-up bar, and a kiddie pool. Soak your worries away in the hot tub, sip something tropical at the custom tiki bar, or fire up the grill in the outdoor cooking area. Two outdoor showers, plenty of shady hangout spots and an oceanfront just steps away make this backyard location the perfect playspace. The first floor offers endless fun. Challenge friends and family to foosball or a billiards game or enjoy movie night in the home theater. Middle-level accommodations galore will keep your guests scrambling to pick out their favorite space to crash. Two bunk rooms with a handy Jack and Jill bath will keep the kiddos happy, and 4 master ensuites with convenient deck access offer the perfect spot to enjoy fresh ocean breezes and a morning coffee too. There’s even a media room with a full-size fridge and wet bar. The open-concept, main level living is the perfect entertainment space with cathedral ceilings and endless oceanfront views. This well-appointed gourmet kitchen is made for feeding a crowd… double wall ovens, two dishwashers, a spacious prep island, and island seating at the wet bar. And, there’s even a seat for 30+ guests to enjoy a seafood meal fit for a king. Two king-size ensuites and a loft check all the boxes that make third-level living pretty special. Rising Sun's floor plan measures 6,850 square feet of finished and heated living area which offers 10 bedrooms, though Dare County permitting allows for only 9 bedrooms. The finished but unheated ground level add another 550 square feet. With a proven rental history with exceptional ROI, this property is perfectly positioned for savvy investors. Enjoy the laid-back Salvo beaches that offer plenty of privacy, peace and quiet.
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7 bd
7 ba
Experience true coastal luxury in this stunning 7-bedroom, 7-bath oceanfront retreat perfectly situated on an oceanfront lot. Located in the heart of Avon within the well maintained planned community known as Kinnakeet Shores. This exceptional home - “Southern Sol” - offers the ideal blend of upscale comfort, breathtaking views, and unbeatable rental performance. Designed for both relaxation and entertaining, the home features expansive sun and covered decks, a screened porch, and panoramic ocean views that showcase unforgettable sunrises over the Atlantic. Inside, the open-concept top level boasts cathedral ceilings, a gas fireplace, and a beautifully updated kitchen equipped for serious cooking, including high-end appliances, double dishwashers, and ample gathering space. With seven spacious bedrooms (5 ensuites)—this home provides privacy and comfort for large groups. Amenities include: elevator, a private oceanfront pool, hot tub, sauna, two outdoor showers, a fully loaded game room and more. A proven investment year after year, with over $200K rental income for the 2026 season and more weeks expected. This extraordinary oceanfront home delivers a top-tier vacation income-producing property. SOUTHERN SOL delivers space, views, and the ultimate Outer Banks lifestyle. Don’t miss this one! Schedule a Saturday showing.
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6 bd
6 ba
1201 Atlantic Ave. sits at the quiet northern edge of Corolla in Ocean Hill, near where the paved road ends and the landscape opens to dunes, sky, and the rhythm of the Atlantic. Positioned on 0.84 acres of oceanfront, this six bedroom luxury home offers a rare sense of space and privacy, enhanced by its end of cul de sac location and private beach access. The home is designed to frame the coastline, with multiple levels of ocean-facing decks and views that extend from the pool area to the great room, dining room, kitchen, shipwatch, and four of the bedrooms—including two bathrooms with views from the tub. Recent rental history has been strong, with the past couple of years hovering around $200,000. Inside, the home balances scale and comfort with private bathrooms for all six bedrooms, an elevator, two fireplaces (including one in the top level suite), cedar closets, surround sound in the great room, and two dishwashers for effortless hosting. The shipwatch offers an elevated vantage point, capturing long views of the shoreline and the ever-changing light over the water. The setting is part of the appeal. This stretch of Corolla is known for its quieter, end-of-the-road atmosphere, where golf carts and bikes can be part of daily life, and the Corolla Wild Horses can be seen just a short drive north. Nature preserves, walking trails, and Corolla’s historic attractions are close by, yet the property feels distinctly private—removed enough to feel like an escape, close enough to enjoy the best of the northern Outer Banks. A rare oceanfront offering in a location where privacy, natural beauty, and an intentional coastal lifestyle come together.
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4 bd
3 ba
OCEANFRONT SPLENDOR — COASTAL RETREAT WITH BREATHTAKING OCEAN AND SOUND VIEWS IN DUCK’S COVETED SANDERLING NEIGHBORHOOD Welcome to 110 Station Bay Drive, a rare oceanfront sanctuary in Duck’s pristine Sanderling community. Tucked just beyond the protective dune line this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home offers both panoramic ocean and sound views from its top level and immediate access to one of the most peaceful stretches of beach on the Outer Banks. Located just south of the world-class Sanderling Resort, you’re moments from the Sanderling Spa, the acclaimed new restaurant Theodosia, and local favorite Paper Canoe—all within walking distance. Residents also enjoy full access to the Sanderling neighborhood’s private amenities, including the soundfront pool and clubhouse, tennis courts, fitness center, and nature trails. This home boasts tons of storage wih the ground level offering abundant space underneath for beach gear, kayaks, a golf cart, car or other beach necessities. A large outdoor shower and private walkway over the dunes make it easy to move between beach and home. Atop the dune, a bench platform overlooks the ocean—the perfect place to watch the sunrise with your morning coffee. Inside, the home’s design celebrates light, space, and connection to the ocean. The first floor hosts four well-appointed bedrooms and a convenient laundry area. Two bedrooms at the front of the home share a full bathroom, while a third bedroom enjoys its own en-suite bath and direct deck access to the outdoors. The fourth bedroom is especially spacious, featuring dual deck access (front and back) and a private en-suite bathroom with a standing shower. A wraparound multi-level deck system connects each floor, allowing for easy outdoor flow and multiple vantage points for ocean breezes, sunrises, and sunsets. Enjoy the west side screened porch for outdoor living at its finest with sound views and spectacular sunsets. The top floor welcomes you into a bright, open-concept living space that defines coastal living. The kitchen opens seamlessly to the dining and living areas, where vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and walls of windows fill the home with natural light. A wood burning fireplace anchors the space, while multiple decks on both sides offer stunning ocean sunrise views to the east and sound sunsets to the west. The kitchen provides abundant cabinetry, generous counter space, and bar seating—ideal for gatherings and entertaining. A half bath is conveniently located off the living area, while outdoor decks on both sides of the home will allow you to capture the sunrise over the Atlantic in the morning and sunset over the Currituck Sound in the evening. From the multi-level decks to the dune-top platform, every element of this home celebrates its exceptional setting. Whether you’re watching dolphins in the surf, enjoying an evening cocktail as the sun dips behind the sound, or listening to the ocean from the shade of your deck, 110 Station Bay Drive delivers the best of both worlds—tranquil seclusion and effortless proximity to Duck’s finest dining, shopping, and recreation. At 2,711 square feet, this home is a showcase of timeless Outer Banks architecture, natural light, and oceanfront comfort. Whether as a full-time residence, a vacation retreat, or an investment property, it represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Duck’s most coveted coastline.
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7 bd
6 ba
Gull Cottage presents a rare opportunity to own a custom-built oceanfront retreat on the sought-after 4x4 beaches of Carova, boasting 80 feet of unobstructed ocean frontage and directly bordering False Cape State Park for unparalleled privacy and natural surroundings. Positioned approximately 10 miles up the beach on an elevated oceanfront lot, this exceptional property offers 7 bedrooms, 6 full baths, and over 3,500 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, with sweeping ocean and dune views from nearly every room. A strong, proven rental history further enhances its appeal. The home showcases a distinctive vintage maritime aesthetic, blending timeless coastal character with modern comfort. Vaulted wood ceilings, pine floors, and hand-carved teak furnishings are complemented by curated nautical details that create a warm, authentic seaside ambiance. The retro-inspired kitchen is both stylish and functional, featuring dual stainless steel appliances, abundant cabinetry, and a center island—perfect for entertaining large groups with ease. The main living level offers an open-concept layout with generous seating, surround sound, a gas fireplace, and expansive ocean views that frame the space beautifully. This level also includes an en suite bedroom, an additional full bath, and direct access to ocean-facing decks. An elevator provides convenient access to all three levels. Upstairs, the primary en suite serves as a private sanctuary with beamed ceilings, a jetted tub, dual vanities, and a private deck overlooking the Atlantic. A loft overlook captures panoramic views of the dunes and coastline beyond. The ground level is designed for recreation and relaxation, featuring two additional en suite bedrooms, a game room with pool table, lounge seating, and a wet bar with granite countertops. Outdoor living is a true highlight. Brand-new Tigerwood decking surrounds the private heated pool and spa, creating multiple spaces to relax and take in the oceanfront setting. A private beach access leads to a dune-top deck with built-in seating and lighting, offering seamless access to the shoreline. Kayaks and paddleboards are included for exploring the surrounding coastal waters. Whether envisioned as a one-of-a-kind second home or a high-performing vacation rental, Gull Cottage delivers exceptional location, design, views, and amenities. With 80 feet of direct ocean frontage, False Cape State Park just steps away, added beach privacy, roaming wild horses, and the untouched beauty of the 4x4 beaches, this is truly a standout offering in Carova, Corolla, North Carolina.
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12 bd
10 ba
Welcome to this exceptional 12-bedroom, 10.5-bath custom-built oceanfront estate, where refined coastal design meets timeless luxury. Thoughtfully positioned to capture sweeping, unobstructed Atlantic Ocean views, this remarkable residence offers an unparalleled Outer Banks experience with a spacious layout, elevated finishes, and true resort-style amenities for guests of all ages. From the moment you arrive, the superior craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident. Built with premium, oceanfront-durable materials by Mancuso Development, the home features oversized ocean-view windows, classic lap siding, composite decking, and vinyl handrails—each carefully selected to enhance longevity, beauty, and effortless living on the coast. Inside the main house, an expansive open-concept living area is framed by walls of glass showcasing endless ocean vistas. The chef’s kitchen is a standout, complete with dual stainless steel appliances, generous counter space, and ample seating—ideal for hosting family and friends. A gas fireplace anchors the stylish living room, while the adjacent dining area opens to a private oceanfront deck, perfect for morning coffee or evening sunsets. The main level also includes a luxurious king ensuite with a soaking tub and custom shower, a convenient half bath, and elevator access to all floors. The mid-level features six well-appointed ensuite bedrooms, including kid-friendly bunk rooms, along with a laundry area and a welcoming foyer den with wet bar—an inviting space for relaxed gatherings. On the ground level, entertainment takes center stage with a game room featuring a wet bar, arcade games, gaming station, and foosball. This level also offers direct access to the private heated pool and cabana, two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and another king ensuite. A breezeway connects to the guest house, providing a private retreat ideal for extended family or visitors. The upper level of the guest house hosts a family suite with a king bedroom, built-in bunk room (queen/twin), shared full bath, and wet bar. Below, guests will enjoy a dedicated theater room and an additional game room with a pool table, shuffleboard, and arcade games. Outdoor living is equally impressive, with a heated in-ground pool, spa, cabana house and tiki bar, shuffleboard, ping-pong, outdoor shower, and direct beach access. Dune-top seating offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy sunrise views and the soothing sound of the waves. Ideally located in Corolla, this estate is just minutes from premier shopping and dining, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, historic Corolla Village, and the renowned 4x4 beaches where wild horses roam freely. Combining luxury, craftsmanship, and coastal elegance, this extraordinary oceanfront estate presents a rare opportunity for a private retreat or a premier investment along North Carolina’s Outer Banks.
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Perched on the oceanfront in the heart of Nags Head, 8509 S Old Oregon Inlet Road offers the perfect blend of coastal comfort and breathtaking Atlantic views. This inviting 5-bedroom, 3-bath beach retreat is designed for effortless seaside living, featuring expansive covered decks where you can relax to the sound of rolling waves and enjoy endless sunrises over the water. Inside, the open-concept top level serves as the heart of the home, with a bright and airy living area flowing seamlessly into the kitchen and dining spaces—ideal for gathering with family and friends while taking in panoramic ocean views. Large windows fill the home with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming coastal ambiance throughout. Step outside and enjoy your own private walkway providing direct access to the pristine sandy beach, making morning strolls, afternoon swims, and sunset walks just steps from your door. Whether you’re searching for a serene second home, a vacation getaway, or an exceptional investment opportunity, this oceanfront gem delivers the quintessential Outer Banks lifestyle.
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