Special Islands
By Frances Boyd
What am I ? I am one of almost 3,000 such geographical features in South Carolina . I am usually small in acreage but great in biological diversity . You probably see me , or one like me , every day if you live near the coast or on a barrier island . What am I ? A Marsh Hammock .
What is a marsh hammock ? It is a small island that can be any size from less than an acre to several hundred acres . The word “ hammock ” is of uncertain origin but may have originated in the 16th century as a British nautical term that was spelled hummock , referring to a small , forested island . These hummocks occur up and down the eastern seaboard and vary in their flora and fauna depending upon their location . The marsh hammocks in South Carolina are also referred to as back barrier islands and usually occur between the mainland and a barrier island . Most marsh hammocks have formed naturally , while some grew up along waterways from shell deposits or dredged sediment .
Upon first glance , it is easy to describe a marsh hammock as a miniature maritime forest . Truly , a typical marsh island is largely comprised of the same trees and plants that populate the maritime forest . Recent studies , however , have documented the complexity of these islands and their importance not only to animal and plant species but also to cultural and archeological studies . Their vital role , of course , is simply being part of the marsh biology that serves as a storm buffer and natural filtering system .
Photo by Justin Core
40 Naturally Kiawah