For people near the Okefenokee Swamp, making a living inextricably linked to tourism [Video]

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – The Okefenokee Swamp is one of the world’s largest blackwater wetlands.

Each experience is truly unique, based on the weather, time of year and water levels.

The Okefenokee Protection Alliance estimates there are more than 700,000 visits a year to the Okefenokee Swamp.

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is considered a biodiversity hotspot. Most visitors hope to see one of the 13,000 alligators. The refuge is also home to bald eagles, bobcats, black bears and several endangered species.

More than 850 plant species are found in the Okefenokee. Some are hard to find anywhere else in Georgia or all of North America.

Centuries-old cypress trees line the canal, covered in Spanish moss.

Guide Matt Rouse at Okefenokee Swamp Park and Adventures points out wildlife as he sees it.

He said after more than 30 years as a guide, the craziest thing he’s ever seen …