Our seventh annual Edisto River cleanup was probably the most successful in terms of numbers of people on the river from Colleton State Park. We had approximately 115 people involved. There were three scout troops, one each from Summerville, Cottageville, and Isle of Palms. Colleton County Solid Waste provided a dumpster at the State Park and sent a truck and trailer around to the Colleton County boat ramps to haul away the bags filled with trash collected by the volunteers of Stewardship Day. Thanks to Colleton County Council for providing this support. Most of our participants reported that the river was cleaner than they remembered in past years. Credit is due in part to the efforts of staff at Givhans Ferry State Park who play host to a number of scout groups that are steered to Mars Old Field landing and Messervy's Landing for their public service cleanup projects.

The Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail Commission based at Colleton State Park provided volunteers and boats to assist in the cleanup and Friends of the Edisto funded the post cleanup cookout and the signs to advertise the event. We also received cleanup supplies from Palmetto Pride and American Rivers.

The Stewardship Day cleanup gets region-wide support. The Edisto River is a special place and events like Stewardship Day give us an opportunity to give back to the community and the river. Everyone can play a role by remembering to "leave no trace" when they visit the river.

Save the date. Our 2009 Stewardship Day is scheduled for May 16.