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