Lake Merced
La Laguna de Nuestra Seņora de la Merced or The Lake of Our Lady of Mercy as the early
Spanish explorers called it, is one of a few remaining natural lakes in San Francisco. It
is a designated significant natural area as well as a great recreation site.
Fed by underground springs, the Merced aquifer, and occasional runoff, the lake ranges in depth from three to 20 feet. Lake levels have varied widely due to changes in rainfall, underground pumping, and loss of runoff. As pumping from the Merced aquifer continues and increases, and little water is entering the lake and Lake Merced remains in peril.
This Biogeography of Lake Merced is an
attempt to describe and document many of the wonderful features and values of the Lake.
We hope that it helps you learn more about one of this city's natural
treasures. We have tried to be as accurate as possible. If you should find errors or
inaccuracies please let us know. If you would like to share links and other
interesting information about Lake Merced please contact us.
Barbara A. Holzman, PhD