Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Commission

7

A COMMISSION WITH A HEART FOR PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION

Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail Commission (ERCK)

Founded in 1989, the Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail Commission (ERCK) was created by Colleton County Council with the goal of helping to oversee  development, preservation, and protection of the Edisto River. As one of the longest free-flowing blackwater rivers in North America, the Edisto supports rich biodiversity, historic river communities, and more than 60 miles of mapped recreational paddling routes.

Our Work and Mission

For more than 30 years, Commission members and volunteers have worked to promote safe, responsible, and enjoyable access to the river by:

  • Leading guided public paddles

  • Teaching paddling safety, river etiquette & outdoor skills

  • Maintaining the navigability of the river corridor

  • Supporting river cleanups and conservation projects

  • Hosting festivals, workshops, and awareness events

  • Producing trail maps, guides, and educational materials

These efforts have helped thousands of paddlers experience the Edisto while reinforcing the importance of protecting this unique blackwater ecosystem.

Supporting Givhans Ferry and Colleton State Parks

A core principle of ERCK since its founding has been to support the riverfront parks that safeguard the Edisto and provide public access to it.
Both Givhans Ferry State Park (Dorchester County) and Colleton State Park (Colleton County) play crucial roles in protecting natural riverfront habitat while offering paddling access, camping, trails, interpretive programs, and family recreation.

ERCK works closely with these parks by:

  • Promoting their paddling access points along the Edisto River

  • Supporting park-led education, safety, and conservation initiatives

  • Coordinating paddling routes, trail maps, and signage that connect to park facilities

  • Encouraging stewardship and volunteer participation that benefits the parks and the river

  • Highlighting the parks as essential gateways to understanding and experiencing the Edisto

By strengthening the visibility and use of these two riverfront state parks, ERCK helps ensure that the Edisto remains both protected and accessible for future generations.

A Joint County Effort

In 2016, Dorchester County joined Colleton County to cooperatively manage this shared natural resource. Together, the counties have:

  • Developed a Recreation Management Plan

  • Produced a comprehensive paddling trail map and access guide

  • Launched a public website to connect paddlers with river conditions, events, and safety resources

  • Helped expand paddling access and opportunities for both residents and visitors

Work is currently underway to formally establish ERCK as a joint county commission.

Get Involved

ERCK relies on engaged residents who care about river access, stewardship, and safe recreation.
If you live in Colleton or Dorchester County and would like to:

  • Become involved with the river community.

  • Volunteer for paddles, cleanups, or public events

  • Assist with trail maintenance or educational outreach

We’d love to hear from you!

📧 Contact us: ercktrailsc@gmail.com

JONATHAN BURROUGHS, CHAIRMAN

My passion for paddle sports began at an early age, growing up in the Upstate region of South Carolina, where the rivers and lakes provided the perfect playground for adventure. From the first time I dipped a paddle into the water, I was captivated by the rhythm of the current, the serenity of nature, and the thrill of exploring new waterways. Weekends were often spent paddling and camping along the Chattooga River, a place that quickly became my second home. The Chattooga, with its untamed rapids and breathtaking scenery, not only deepened my love for the sport but also instilled in me a lasting respect for the power and beauty of wild rivers.

This passion for paddling seamlessly intertwined with my career at South Carolina State Parks, where I was fortunate to work in some of the state’s most beautiful natural areas. At Dreher Island State Park on Lake Murray, I experienced the vastness of open water paddling, learning how to navigate around its many coves and inlets while watching the sun set over the horizon. Later, my time at Hunting Island State Park near Beaufort introduced me to a different kind of paddling—one that took me through salt marshes, tidal creeks, and winding inlets rich with coastal wildlife. These experiences allowed me to appreciate the incredible diversity of South Carolina’s waterways, from its freshwater lakes to its brackish estuaries.

My connection with the Edisto River came later in life when I worked at Colleton State Park near Walterboro. Unlike the fast-moving rapids of the Chattooga or the wide expanses of Lake Murray, the Edisto’s slow-moving, blackwater currents offered a new kind of magic. Often called the “blackwater jewel” of the Lowcountry, the Edisto River’s dark, tea-colored waters and towering cypress trees create an almost mystical atmosphere. Paddling beneath the moss-draped branches, I developed a deep appreciation for the quiet beauty and ecological significance of this remarkable river. There truly is no other river that compares to the Edisto in its unique charm and timeless allure.

Now, as a resident of Walterboro, I take every opportunity to return to my favorite stretch of the Edisto. Whether I’m fishing for Redbreast and Catfish in its quiet bends, spotting wildlife along the banks, or simply paddling alongside close friends, each trip is a reminder of why I fell in love with paddle sports in the first place. The Edisto has become more than just a river to me—it is a place of reflection, adventure, and connection to the natural world. No matter where life takes me, I know that the Edisto will always be there, waiting for me to dip my paddle once again.

GARY HERMANN, TREASURER

Gary’s fondness for paddling is exemplified by over 50 years of experience on both flatwater and whitewater rivers. He has extensive experience as a flatwater paddling instructor and has been a member of the ERCK Commission since its founding in 1989. Though Gary enjoys his day job as a registered, consulting forester, he much prefers to be on the water. He states, “”A day on the Edisto is a day of beauty, solitude, and calming therapy.” Gary enjoys all sections of the ERCK trail as they all have their own unique characteristics.

Vice Chairman, Austin Mitchum

My love for the outdoors has always been a big part of who I am. Growing up as an avid fisherman, I spent countless hours on the water and developed a deep appreciation for nature, wildlife, and the peace that comes from being outdoors. While I spent most of my younger years in boats, everything changed when I paddled a kayak for the first time 15 years ago. From that moment on, I was hooked.
There is something truly special about paddling a river. For me, it’s the sense of serenity that comes from slowing down, disconnecting from the noise of everyday life, and letting the current guide me around each winding bend. Whether I’m paddling, fishing, hunting, or simply exploring, being on the water has always been where I feel most at home.
The Edisto River holds a special place in my heart. Its winding channels, towering cypress trees, and unspoiled beauty create an experience unlike any other. Every trip down the river offers a chance to appreciate the natural world from a unique perspective and serves as a reminder of why conservation and stewardship are so important.
As Vice Chairman of the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Commission, I am honored to be part of an organization that cares so deeply about protecting and promoting one of South Carolina’s greatest natural treasures. The Edisto is one of the most pristine blackwater rivers in the world, and I am passionate about helping preserve its beauty, accessibility, and ecological health for future generations to enjoy.
The river has provided me with countless memories, adventures, and opportunities to connect with nature. I am proud to serve the Commission and contribute to the stewardship of a place that means so much to me, while helping others discover the same appreciation and respect for the Edisto River that I have developed through the years.

 

    Secretary, Alta Mae Marvin

    Alta Mae Marvin is a longtime Walterboro community leader with deep roots in economic development, agribusiness, and natural resource stewardship. A graduate of the University of South Carolina (B.A., College of Mass Communication, 1973), Alta Mae built a distinguished career with Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service from 2000 until her retirement in 2021.

    During her time with Clemson, she initially worked with the Institute for Economic and Community Development before transitioning to Clemson’s Agribusiness Team, where she supported agricultural initiatives and rural economic growth across the region. Her work helped strengthen local industries while fostering sustainable community development.

    In 2026, Alta Mae joined the Walterboro Wildlife Center on a part-time basis, continuing her commitment to conservation, education, and community engagement.

    Alta Mae remains actively involved in numerous civic and environmental organizations. She serves as Chairman of the City of Walterboro’s Accommodations Tax Committee and is a member of the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail Commission, the Edisto River Basin Commission, and the Live Oak Cemetery Board. She is also a Clemson Extension Master Gardener, reflecting her lifelong dedication to horticulture and environmental stewardship.

    Through her leadership and service, Alta Mae continues to play an important role in promoting tourism, conservation, and quality of life in Walterboro and throughout the Edisto River Basin.

    Commissioner, Walter Runck

    Commissioner, Ian Dillinger

      Commissioner/Ex Officio, Kaley Foley

      Hello. I’m Kaley Foley, manager at Givhans Ferry State Park. From a young age, I aspired to become a park ranger. I grew up on a dairy farm, where I assisted with various farm-related responsibilities. One weekend, a tornado caused significant damage to the farm, resulting in the displacement of livestock. The local community promptly came together to assist with cleanup and recovery efforts. During this time, I had the opportunity to meet a park ranger. He helped my family roping and rounding up the herd. Our conversation about the profession inspired me to pursue a career in the field. I went on to study Parks, Rec. & Tourism Management at Clemson University and joined the ranks with South Carolina State Parks after graduating in 2007. I have worked in parks across the state ever since.

      • Early mornings spent caring for animals and long days outdoors instilled a deep respect for nature and a strong work ethic that just naturally led to a career in parks. My upbringing gave me firsthand experience with sustainable land management, wildlife observation, and the rhythms of the natural world—skills that have become essential in my role as a Park Manager.

        My mission for Givhans Ferry State Park is, “Connecting people to the cultural history and ecosystem of the Edisto River Basin.” My farm-born resilience and passion for conservation drives me to be a dependable steward of the park, and a strong advocate for connecting people to the outdoors.

        My favorite place at Givhans is on the Edisto River. You can chill out on a hot day when it’s 106 degrees. Paddling a kayak is my jam. I go multiple times a week.

        First time visitors should not miss, at least looking at, the Edisto River. The back porch at the River House is a great place to hang out and take it all in. If you want to chill and relax, take a tubing trip on the Edisto. Just make sure to bring lots of sunblock and water.

         

      ERCK VOLUNTEERS

      The Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail Commission is fueled by a passionate and dedicated group of volunteers who play a crucial role in maintaining the beauty and accessibility of this natural wonder. These professionals bring a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to preserving the Edisto River’s ecological integrity. Through their hard work and enthusiasm, they ensure that visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the river safely while promoting its conservation. Whether it’s organizing events, guiding paddling trips, or working on sustainable trail development, these volunteers demonstrate an exceptional level of dedication to the trail and the local community.

      Did you know?

      There are around 12,000 acres of rice field impoundments found in the tidal areas of the river system.