San Francisco Bay Salt Ponds

San Francisco Bay Salt Ponds are a collection of salt evaporation ponds at the southern end of the San Francisco Bay, located in San Jose, California. The ponds, owned by Cargill, Inc., are part of a 15,100-acre (6,100 ha) solar salt-making area.

History

The San Francisco Bay Salt Ponds have a rich history dating back to the Ohlone people, who harvested salt from the bay's edge. In the 19th century, commercial salt production began, with companies like the Leslie Salt Company and Arden Salt Company operating in the area. In 1978, Cargill, Inc. acquired the salt ponds and continues to produce salt today.

Ecology

The San Francisco Bay Salt Ponds are an important part of the bay's ecosystem. They provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including several species of shorebirds and waterfowl. The ponds are also home to the endangered California Ridgway's Rail and Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse.

Restoration

In 2003, a large-scale restoration project was initiated to convert some of the salt ponds back into wetlands. The project, known as the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project, aims to restore and enhance wetlands in the San Francisco Bay while providing for wildlife-oriented public access and recreation.

Production

Salt production in the San Francisco Bay Salt Ponds involves a process of evaporating water from the bay to leave behind salt. The process begins in the spring when bay water is pumped into the ponds. Over the summer, the water evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals. In the fall, the salt is harvested and processed for use in a variety of products, including table salt and water softener salt.

See also

• San Francisco Bay
• Cargill, Inc.
• Salt evaporation pond
• South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project