Environmental Analysis Focusing on Nitrate and Phosphate of Lake Merced, San Francisco, California
Abstract
Lake Merced is located in the southwest region of San Francisco. The lake is used for recreation by many San Francisco residents, is home to many animals and plants and is an emergency water source for the City of San Francisco. We analyzed the lake for nitrate and phosphate concentrations to determine the ecological health of the lake. High levels of these chemicals increase the risk of eutrophication. Our study finds that the amount of each chemical is below maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). We tested for arsenic, chromium, copper, lead and zinc and found that only arsenic and lead were above the MCL. Additionally, we identified the soils and sands, tested the soil for nitrate and phosphate levels at two sites near large amount of wildlife. We also identified the native and invasive plants around the lake and found that the lake contains a majority of invasive plants. Our overall results show that the lake is healthy but could be improved.
- Publication:
-
AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2007
- Bibcode:
- 2007AGUFMED41A0080C
- Keywords:
-
- 6630 Workforce