Islais Creek: ever heard the tale of a waterway that was once a vital source of life and then became known as “Shit Creek”? This is Islais Creek. Its story is one of transformation, degradation, and eventual restoration.
The name “Islais” comes from the Salinan Native American word “slay” or “islay”. It refers to the wild cherries that grew here. In 1834, the name Los Islais appeared on Mexican maps. The Ohlone Indians harvested mussels here long before that.
Back in the 1850s, Islais Creek was a lifeline. Farmers used its water to irrigate their crops. Franciscan friars from Mission Dolores also relied on it for fresh water. But then came the Gold Rush. This event marked the beginning of Islais Creek’s decline.
As gold rushers flooded the city, the creek became an industrial hub. This led to its degradation. In 1871, the area became known as “New Butchertown”. More than 100 slaughterhouses opened along its banks. Imagine the scene.
The creek became a dumping ground. Garbage, sewage, animal waste, and unsold meat polluted the water. Its condition was so bad that San Franciscans called it “Shit Creek”. In 1883, Islais Creek was declared a non-navigable waterway.
After the devastating 1906 earthquake, the city decided to reclaim the creek. Earthquake debris was used to fill it. This reduced the waterbody to its present size.
During World War II, Islais Creek served as a docking area for large ocean-going tugs. It also housed the largest copra coconut processing plant on the West Coast. An abandoned five-story high copra crane remains on the creek bank. It is preserved as a historic landmark. In the 1950s, Islais Creek was home to the largest sardine canning industry in the world.
The creek’s condition gradually improved after 1970. A water treatment plant was built. Today, most of Islais Creek is covered. It has been transformed into a culvert. Remnants still flow at Glen Canyon and near the bay.
Many local community organizations are working to improve the creek. Friends of Islais Creek was established in 1984. They are committed to building a waterfront park. The Muwekma Ohlone Park is located adjacent to Pier 80. It has become an important wildlife habitat.
However, Islais Creek still faces challenges. It carries storm water, domestic sewage, and industrial wastewater. Sewage overflows can cause public health hazards. The creek has higher levels of heavy metals and bacteria than other parts of the San Francisco Bay.
Despite these challenges, Islais Creek remains a testament to resilience. Its history reflects the changing fortunes of San Francisco. The Third Street Bridge is the major crossing of the creek. Illinois Street was extended across Islais Creek in 2006.
The story of Islais Creek is a reminder. It shows how we can transform and restore our environment. It also shows us how easily we can damage it. Let us remember the lessons of Islais Creek.