Sumter County, South Carolina – Sparkleberry Swamp

This photo of Sparkleberry Swamp was shot by Cynthia Parker of Sumter.

Cynthia describes the setting: "Sparkleberry Swamp, also known as the Upper Santee Swamp, is located at the northern end of Lake Marion, in Sumter County. It's not far from Pinewood. Sparkleberry is an ecological jewel revered by birdwatchers and sportsmen alike. Gorgeous scenery abounds, with a canopy of tupelo, ash, and majestic bald cypress providing habitat for numerous species of birds, reptiles, and four footed creatures. The area is open to the public with a boat ramp and a parking area."

Sparkleberry Swamp is also the same area threatened by the possible construction of the Briggs-DeLaine-Pearson Connector, a controversial bridge project that would connect the communities of Lone Star and Rimini. These two communities were separated by the creation of Lake Marion in the early 1940s. While aimed at spurring economic development in the region, the project has also received a lot of criticism for potentially damaging a pristine natural area of our state. To find out more about this issue click here.