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rr General description: Extensive wooded swamps occur along rivers traversing 



the Atlantic Coastal Plain. Among these are the Blackwater, the Nottoway, the 

 Chickahominy, and Dragon Run. The Dismal Swamp lies in a vast, almost un- 

 drained region around Lake Drummond on the Virginia-North Carolina border. 

 Fresh-water marshes occur somewhat above tidewater (Kanes and Neabsco 

 creeks). Small bogs and swamps may also be found in pockets in the Appalachi- 

 ans. 



Status of the wetlands: Timber operations are the major threat to the integrity 

 of the river swamps. Sewage treatment plants, dumping, dredging for marinas, 

 filling for development, and draining for agriculture are mentioned as en- 

 croachments on wetlands near urban centers. Recreational disturbances, 

 cutting, girdling of trees, bulldozing, drainage, damming, and spraying with her- 

 bicides are mentioned as taking place in the bogs within the National Forest. 



Sources of data: Information has been received from personnel of the State 

 Division of Parks and from professional biologists. 



Recommendations: The Seashore Natural Area on Cape Henry has already been 

 registered as a Natural Landmark. The Dismal Swamp, despite encroachments, 

 is one of the finest and most extensive fresh-water wetlands in the country. Over 

 half of it lies in North Carolina. It should be given top priority as an area to be 

 preserved and designated as a landmark. Outstanding swamps may also be found 

 along Dragon Run, and the Blackwater and Nottoway rivers. An investigation of 

 ownership and encroachments will have to be made in order to establish priori- 

 ties. Chickahominy Swamp should also be investigated. Kanes Creek Marsh has 

 already been preserved through action of The Nature Conservancy and should, 

 hence, probably be given priority over Neabsco as a landmark. The five small, 

 boggy wetlands reported from the George Washington National Forest have all 

 apparently suffered some disturbances. It is difficult to establish any priorities 

 from the data at hand. 



