Celebrate Wetland Treasures During American Wetlands Month!

mike.stokes • April 24, 2025

Press Release: Introducing 2025 Wetland Treasures of the Carolinas

Raleigh, NC – Carolina Wetlands Association celebrates wetlands and American Wetlands Month this May by announcing our newest Wetland Treasures of the Carolinas. The designation of Wetland Treasures recognizes wetlands that are ecologically valuable, protected by conservation plans, and home to an abundance of plant and animal diversity. Our recognized Wetland Treasures provide important benefits to ecosystems and human wellbeing including flood reduction, carbon sequestration, water purification, specialized habitats, and recreation opportunities. 


Despite their value, nearly 50% of the world’s wetlands have been lost in the last 100 years and are in jeopardy from loss of federal protection under the Clean Water Act. Loss of these magnificent natural features endangers wildlife and humans. In North Carolina, 70% of the state's endangered and threatened species rely on wetlands. In South Carolina, wetlands are the breeding ground for 25% of the global population for four bird species. 


We are hoping to increase the understanding and appreciation of wetlands across North and South Carolinas so that citizens and scientists alike can participate in their stewardship.

  • Saluda Shoals Wetland Preserve

    • Location: Lexington and Richland Counties (South Carolina)
    • Wetland Type: Bottomland hardwood floodplain, riverine swamp
    • Site Owner: Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission
    • Unique Feature: Saluda Shoals Wetland Preserve is a restored wetland area that acts as a laboratory where staff educate visitors about the importance of restoring, preserving, and properly managing our natural resources. A noteworthy feature of the site is the discovery that human occupation dates back 13,000 years. Artifacts uncovered indicate how life was intrinsically woven into the many species of birds, animals and the aquatics and terrestrial plants it supports. 
    • Tour Date: Saturday, May 3; 1pm-3pm (Register Now) Explore the wetland through a walking tour lead by a Park Ranger. 

  • Holly Shelter Game Land

    • Location: Pender County, North Carolina
    • Wetland Types: Pocosins, wet pine savannas, floodplain forests, Carolina bays, small wetland communities.  
    • Site Owner: N.C. Wildlife Resources Commision
    • Unique Feature: The Holly Shelter game land spans 64,000 acres within which one finds tremendous biodiversity. Along with the white-tailed deer, black bear, and wild turkey, one can find American alligators, gopher frogs, red-cockcaded woodpeckers and numerous types of carnivorous plants. Holly Shelter Game Land is partnering with The Nature Conservancy to improve and restore a more natural hydrologic period in the habitat. At 17,235 acres, it is the largest project of its kind in the world. Holly Shelter Game Land is featured on the North Carolina Mountains to Sea Trail. 
    • Tour Date: Saturday, May 17; 1pm-3pm  (Register Now).  Join us for a follow-the-leader driving tour with stops at several locations . The roadway surface is well-maintained dirt.

  • Great Coharie River Wetlands

    • Location: Sampson County, North Carolina
    • Wetland Type: Black water floodplain forested wetlands
    • Site Owner: Coharie Tribe
    • Unique Feature: The Great Coharie River, located in Sampson County, North Carolina, holds profound cultural significance for the Coharie Tribe. Historically, the river served as a vital source of sustenance, transportation, and spiritual connection. In recent decades, the river faced degradation due to hurricanes, invasive species, and neglect, leading to loss of access and ecological decline. In response, the Coharie Tribe launched the Great Coharie River Initiative in 2015, a community-driven effort to restore the river's health and accessibility. Volunteers, including tribal members and local residents, have cleared debris, removed beaver dams, and reestablished navigable pathways, revitalizing the river for cultural practices and recreation. 
    • Tours: Tours are regularly offered by the Coharie Tribe (Book Now)

Carolina Wetlands Association now recognizes 40 unique Wetland Treasures across North and South Carolina. Discover the beauty and significance of wetlands by visiting one of our Wetland Treasures. Explore wetlands near you using our interactive Wetland Treasure Map and visit our webpage to learn more. 


For more information, contact Rick Savage, Executive Director of the Carolina Wetlands Association. 


Carolina Wetlands Association thanks the Wisconsin Wetlands Association, whose Wetland Gems program is the model for this program. The Carolina Wetlands Association promotes the understanding, protection, restoration, and enjoyment of North and South Carolina’s wetlands and associated ecosystems through science-based programs, education, and advocacy.
More information at carolinawetlands.org.


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