Seven acres of restored marshland and a new pedestrian trail is opening to the public this weekend in San Francisco’s Presidio.
The project marks a significant milestone in a decades-long project to revitalize one of the city’s original watersheds, Tennessee Hollow.
“It’s a whole watershed that’s in the Presidio, and the Army had buried it about 100 years ago underground” Michael Boland, chief of park development with the Presidio Trust.
What was once a paved construction site underneath the Presidio Parkway approach to the Golden Gate Bridge is now a new wetland ecosystem.
“Where freshwater and saltwater meet, they host a whole array of different species of birds and of plants and of crustaceans, and they’re incredibly diverse ecologically,” said Boland.
The restored marshland has allowed for the return of an 850-foot stream that will host native wildlife and plants.
“To be able to have access to real nature right in the middle of San Francisco is an incredibly unique experience,” said Boland, one that is especially needed right now as people are looking for ways to get outside safely.
Visitors can enjoy views of the marsh along the pedestrian walkway.
“Having access to parks is critical for everyone. We’ve seen a huge uptick in the number of bikes in the park and the number of people coming and using the park’s trails to safely get away from their homes and enjoy the outdoors.”
Quartermaster Reach opens to the public on Saturday.