Edisto River facts for kids
The Edisto River is one of the longest free-flowing blackwater rivers in North America. It stretches over 250 winding miles from its beginnings in Saluda and Edgefield counties, all the way to the Atlantic Ocean at Edisto Beach, South Carolina.
The river starts from two main branches, called the North Fork and South Fork. These branches begin from springs in the Sandhills region of West Central South Carolina. The Edisto River is the longest and largest river system that is completely inside South Carolina's borders. Its name comes from the Edisto subtribe of the Cusabo Indians, who lived in the area long ago.
Near the coast, a part of the river was once known as the Ponpon River. The Dawhoo River connects the Edisto to the North Edisto River. This area is also where the Wadmalaw and Toogoodoo rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean. Between the coast and the Dawhoo River, the main river is called the South Edisto River.
The Edisto River system flows through only one major town: Orangeburg. Here you can find the beautiful Edisto Gardens, located on the North Fork of the river.
Since the Edisto is a blackwater river, its water is dark, like tea. This color comes from plants and leaves decaying in the water. The river flows through swampy areas. When there's a lot of rain, the river can spread out, making its flow area more than a mile wide! The lower part of the Edisto basin is an important part of the ACE Basin. This special area includes where the Edisto meets the Ashepoo and Combahee rivers.
A major branch of the Edisto River is Four Hole Swamp. This swamp is special because it doesn't have just one main channel. Instead, it has many smaller channels that crisscross and connect, like a braided rope.
Contents
Protecting the Edisto River
River Wildlife
The Edisto River is home to many kinds of fish. Some common fish found in the freshwater parts include the spotted sucker, bowfin, flat bullhead, and largemouth bass. You might also find common carp, longnose gar, and American eel. For people who enjoy fishing, the redbreast sunfish is a favorite catch.
Edisto Riverkeeper Organization
The Edisto Riverkeeper is a group that works to make sure everyone has access to clean water in the Edisto River basin. This means water that is safe to drink, fish in, and swim in. They are part of a larger group called the Waterkeeper Alliance. The Edisto Riverkeeper helps teach people about the river, speaks up for its protection, and makes sure people and businesses use the river's water wisely.
Friends of the Edisto
Friends of the Edisto, also known as FRED, is another group dedicated to the river. Started in 1998, this non-profit organization helps protect the natural resources of the Edisto River Basin. They also support ways for the local economy to grow without harming the environment.
Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail
The Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail (ERCK) is a group of volunteers. They are committed to keeping the Edisto River healthy and beautiful. They also teach people how to paddle safely and enjoy being on the river. All their instructors are certified by the American Canoe Association.
River History
In the early 1700s, in late August and early September 1718, two pirate captains named Charles Yeats and Charles Vane were near Sullivan's Island. They were capturing ships leaving Charles Town harbor. After some disagreements, Yeats left Vane and sailed up the Edisto River to find safety. Vane tried to follow but gave up. Yeats eventually received a pardon, meaning he was forgiven for his actions. He had tried many times to stop being a pirate and finally took the chance to leave Vane and surrender.
See also
In Spanish: Río Edisto para niños
