Pier 98

San Francisco, once surrounded by abundant wetlands , now has no natural wetlands remaining. The landfill, Pier 98, was originally to be the foundation for a large pier, but construction was abandoned almost 30 years ago. As the years went by, "Pier 98" naturally became a thriving wetland ecosystem. However, there are several problems at the site. Landlocked pools and abandoned garbage tend to encourage populations of mosquitoes. Upland acreage is smothered by invasive species such as wild oat, Italian rice, ice plant and scotch broom. Though the site is in the heart of a San Francisco neighborhood, Hunters Point - Bay View, the beauty of the area is overlooked because of the lack of a well maintained public entry.

Help is on the way. The Port of SF will soon begin a project to further enhance the wetland ecology at Pier 98. In September, 1998, the SF Port Authority will begin "The Pier 98 Wetland Project" in order I) to increase the acreage of wetland habitats, II) to increase public accessibility and III) to continuously manage the ecology so as to encourage populations of native and non- invasive species . Wetlands have finally begun to make a comeback in San Francisco!

Prior to the addition of any enhancements, two freshman science classes from Burton High have already become involved in the Portâs urban wetland project. During four field trips to Pier 98 students drew maps, collected data and began to evaluate how the physical features of the area are associated with populations of different organisms. Hopefully, this yearâs experience can be used to inspire future field studies that could attempt to evaluate the effect of the Portâs enhancements on the flora and fauna of Pier 98.

Figure 1: View of ÎPier 98â.

Habitats

The information and illustrations that follow are a summary of the impressions and data that were collected at four distinct habitats.

• Mudflats
  Salt Marsh- Inter tidal Pond
  Upland
  Rocky Shoreline
  

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We are in the process of constructing a site for those who would like to see some pictures of our school and meet some of the students that took part in this project.