Restoring Oakland's Ecosystems The quality of any water source is critical to every creature in the ecosystem as it is vital to survival. For example, humans cannot go without water for a few days while they can survive for days without food. It is therefore essential to protect water sources. Lake Merritt is a tidal lagoon in downtown Oakland, California, an animal refuge. Lake Merritt was created by Dr. Samuel Merritt, mayor of Oakland, who at that time owned most of the property near the lagoon's shores ("A Brief History"). He proposed building a dam to manipulate the flow of water to allow the water level to rise inland, thus turning the lagoon into a lake. Sewage and storm drains were later piped into the lake, so lake conditions reflect the community's level of pollution within the ecosystem. Over the years, Lake Merritt has deteriorated and continues to deteriorate due to pollution and the stagnant state of the water. The pungent stench released during drought seasons and summer heat causes the lake's once-beautiful state to decay. However, in November 2002, Oakland voters approved a $198 million bond measure to fund clean water and restoration projects throughout the city. A total of $115 million has been allocated for the restoration of Lake Merritt (Miller). However, there are critics who argue that the funds have been misused and that Oakland cannot afford to fund this project. The enormous borrowing from the projects will have to be repaid by the people of Oakland through higher utility rates and tax rates. With the restoration project, not only will the stench of the lake be resolved, but the ecosystem around the lake will also see major improvements. The constant influx of… middle of paper… piece of wildlife within a city. The aim of the project is to return the shelter to the place it was truly intended to be, an ecosystem suitable for supporting the refugees within it. It will bring a real slice of nature back to everyone's backyard. Improving the quality of the lake's water will finally be able to support the organisms that lived there. The improvement can be observed with the appearance of the river otter and the disappearance of the odor. The smell that once drove away joggers and children will disappear, allowing them to experience the beauty of the lake even in its man-made imperfections. Children will finally be able to experience the reality of a true sanctuary for all creatures both aquatic and terrestrial when aquatic life resumes. This project is a small step towards restoring Oakland's main attraction to the world to its former glory.