Marine scientists are studying the effects of development on these fragile ecosystems. Gradually, perceptibly, the direction of the dark water's flow reverses. Stalks of broken cord grass pause in their drift upstream, then slowly glide backward toward the mouth of the creek, silently signaling the tide's unceasing ebb and flow. Black mud along the banks glistens as the water level falls, and tiny bubbles pop in the fragrant pluff, exposing the hiding places of creatures that dwell there. A breeze whispers across the marsh, and the grass waves gracefully.
Small ripples brush the creek's surface.
On its bottom, minute worms and grass shrimp feed countless juvenile fish, shrimp and crabs sheltering there before moving toward the ocean to complete their life cycles. Unstained by development and its attendant pollution, this habitat is arguably the earth's richest, valuable to both nature and humanity. Meandering tidal creeks and expansive salt marshes dominate the geographical features of South Carolina's coastal zone. The natural beauty of these ecosystems attracts millions of tourists to our state each year, and land with scenic vistas of creeks and salt marshes is highly valued for locating homes, tourist resorts and recreational facilities. Tidal creeks and salt marshes are also important environments for marine life.