Crissy Field Marsh: A Coastal Wetland Oasis

Crissy Field Marsh is a haven for both wildlife and visitors seeking a tranquil escape within the bustling city of San Francisco. This 20-acre wetland, located in the northern part of the Presidio, is a testament to successful ecological restoration, transforming a former military airfield into a thriving natural habitat. Historically, the area was a salt marsh and estuary used by the Ohlone people for harvesting shellfish and fish. However, with the arrival of the Spanish in 1776, the land was repurposed for livestock grazing and agriculture. Later, the U.S. Army took control and filled in the marshlands, eventually establishing Crissy Field as an airfield in 1919. The airfield played a significant role in aviation history but fell into disuse after World War II. In the late 1990s, a remarkable restoration project began to revitalize Crissy Field, including the marsh. Over 87,000 tons of hazardous materials were removed, and the tidal wetlands were redesigned to simulate their pre-military condition. The restored marsh reopened in 2001 and quickly became a haven for birds and native plants. Today, visitors can explore Crissy Field Marsh via the Golden Gate Promenade or a boardwalk that extends over the marsh. The brackish waters create an ideal habitat for over 100 avian species, including Caspian terns, belted kingfishers, and great egrets. The marsh also supports nearly 100,000 plants representing 110 native species. The area provides amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Angel Island.