Lake Merritt, city center, Oakland, CA.
Yesterday the US Rowing SW Masters Championships were held here. It was grand to watch a few of the races and enjoy the beauty of these slim boats and their talented crews for some hours!
Looking east toward the Contra Costa hills and the string of East Bay Regional Parks that run along the spine of this coastal small mountain chain, another "save" for the environment.
This is a tidal lake that was first 'improved' in the early 20th century. It has recently undergone additional work which increases the tidal flow and benefits the environmental health of the lake, making it safer for fish, waterfowl, and people. The nation's first waterfowl refuge was established here in 1869.
www2.oaklandnet.com/government/o/opr/s/Parks/OAK032395
blog.nwf.org/2011/10/north-americas-1st-wildlife-refuge-l... 