Lowcountry outdoors: 2021 Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Commission

Friday, November 5, 2021

2021 Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Commission - Winter Paddle

Leaving Mars Oldfield Landing

The Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Commission (ERCK) is based out of Colleton County and is launching its annual winter paddle series. The first paddle on October 16 on the Edisto River went from the Mars Oldfield Landing to Givhans Ferry State Park, approximately a 6.5-mile trip. The ERCK owns a shuttle van, canoes, kayaks, paddles and all the gear necessary to paddle and anyone can pay a fee to rent the gear and join the paddling fun.

ERCK Logo and Equipment

Alta Mae Marvin has been paddling the Edisto River all her life, since her father shared his passion for the Edisto with her. “I’ve been a commissioner with ERCK since about 1986, and our mission has always been to educate others about the Edisto River,” said Marvin. “Today we offer guided trips like the one today for both experienced and newbie paddlers. The idea for ERCK came up years ago when a group of paddling enthusiasts were literally sitting on a sandbar out in the Edisto River.”

Canoes and Kayaks at Launch Site

“Gary Hermann and Mary Crockett are long-time commissioners like myself,” said Marvin. “And the late Charlie Sweat is missed as an ERCK commissioner for his avid participation and for his civic-minded approach to champion the Great Swamp watershed. There is 63-miles of the Edisto River that is designated as a paddle trail, and besides the beautiful vistas, paddlers can expect to see some wildlife along the way like turtles, snakes, wasps and birds. We bring food and water on each paddle and usually stop to take a break during each trip.”