The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™
We're working with you to make a positive impact around the world in more than 30 countries, all 50 United States and your backyard. Support our work
Georgia
Carr's Island Preserve
Just west of Interstate 95 in Glynn County, Georgia, Carr’s Island represents the range of natural and cultural diversity that exists in the lower Altamaha River. Converted to a rice plantation in the 1760s, the 367-acre island is now dominated by two related natural communities – freshwater marsh and tidal freshwater tupelo cypress.
Remnants of abandoned rice fields are now tidal freshwater marshes filled with wild rice, cut grass, and beautiful false dragonhead, a threatened plant in Georgia. In some places, these marshes have reverted to the island’s original freshwater tidal cypress-tupelo forests, where sweetbay, red maple, and swamp rose grow. This combination of forest, marsh, and tidal waters supports diverse and vibrant plant and animal communities.
Donated to The Nature Conservancy in 1996 by the Jones family, Carr’s Island is managed as a natural and interpretative area and remains a special place for people to enjoy and respect some of the Altamaha River’s natural treasures. Though access to Carr’s Island Preserve is remote and possible only by means of boat, the Conservancy has established canoe trails, allowing visitor to experience the beauty and diversity of this swamp and marsh island.
Animals At Risk
- Swallow-tailed kite
Plants at Risk
- False dragonhead
Ecosystems at Risk
- Tiidal freshwater marsh
- Cypress-tupelo forest
Contact Information
Southeast Georgia Conservation Office
U.S. Hwy 17 South - Butler Island
Darien, GA 31305
(912) 437-2161
Discussion
Have you been to this preserve? Are you thinking of visiting? See what others are saying about their experiences and add your comments below.
Add Your Comments
Time for you to join the discussion. Tell us about your experience at this preserve. What plants and animals did you see? When did you go? You can help others plan their visit when you share your thoughts. And thank you for visiting one of our nature preserves!
* Required Fields
Read More
We need to act now, before it's too late. Watch the Video, Take Action
We're addressing Latin America's most pressing conservation issues. Read the Story
