Sea Level Rise

Visual representation of sea level rise potential at Mori Point

Pollution and draining of wetlands has led to a decline in San Francisco garter snake and California red-legged frog populations, making these species particularly sensitive to future habitat disruption. Climate change may further harm these species. Sea level rise due to global warming could allow saltwater to intrude into the low lying freshwater ponds where the frogs and snakes live. These ponds are protected by a levee, but they are so low that water from them has to be pumped up to the ocean.

Rising temperatures may also promote the spread of invasive plants and animals that could alter habitats or outcompete the frogs and snakes. Restoring the habitat here provides more protection and resilience for these threatened species.