Overview
This lecture discusses the unique dune plant community around Lake Merced in San Francisco, its ecological challenges, restoration efforts, and the symbolic significance of mercy embedded in the lake’s name and history.
Lake Merced’s Environment and Challenges
- Lake Merced is surrounded by sandy dunes that support drought-tolerant native plants.
- Modern recreation (golf, fishing, jogging) draws public focus and brings pressure to the landscape.
- Exotic invasive plants, such as iceplant and cape ivy, threaten native species.
- Human activity and urban expansion have heavily altered the lake's ecosystem over time.
Restoration Efforts and Native Flora
- Volunteer groups, including Friends of Lake Merced and the Natural Areas Program, restore native plant diversity.
- The Mesa peninsula is a notable restoration site where iceplant has been removed to favor native plants.
- Coyote brush is a key shrub supporting over 600 beneficial insect species and local bird populations.
- Other common native plants include coastal sagewort, yellow bush lupine, Hooker’s evening primrose, and gum plant.
- Dune knotweed acts as an important bee plant and effective sand-stabilizing groundcover.
- Dune tansy, a threatened native, is emblematic of conservation needs for local flora.
Historical and Cultural Context
- The lake’s landscape was originally stewarded by the Ramaytush Ohlone people before colonial expropriation.
- Spanish, Mexican, and later U.S. control brought development and diminishing natural habitats.
- Lake Merced has served as a water source, military site, and a hub for recreation and education.
Symbolism of Mercy and Language
- “Mercy” and “merced” share Latin roots referring to unearned kindness or reward.
- The lake's name reflects the concept of mercy, connecting ecological preservation with compassion.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Dune Plants — Native species adapted to sandy, dry environments.
- Exotic Invasive Plants — Non-native species that spread aggressively, displacing native flora.
- Restoration — The process of removing invasive species and reestablishing native plant communities.
- Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis) — An evergreen shrub vital for supporting insects and birds.
- Iceplant (Carpobrotus edulis) — An invasive groundcover that outcompetes native plants.
- Dune Tansy (Tanacetum camphoratum) — A rare native with historical abundance in coastal dunes.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Visit the Mesa at Lake Merced to observe restoration efforts in person.
- Research further into the local native plant species and their ecological roles.
- Support or volunteer with local restoration organizations such as Friends of Lake Merced.