South SFV Today

Stanford University has introduced new signage around Lagunita to highlight its significance as a natural habitat and to educate the community about its biodiversity. The area, often mistaken for an empty field, is home to over 400 native species, including some that are at risk of extinction.

Esther Adelsheim, Stanford's conservation program manager, emphasized the ecological importance of Lagunita: “There are really high levels of native biodiversity that inhabit Lagunita, including some very sensitive species of conservation concern.” The signs aim to inform visitors about the ecosystem and correct misconceptions regarding the area's water levels. "A major misconception about Lagunita is that it’s a perennial and natural body of water that’s full all the time, which is not true,” Adelsheim stated.

The initiative was driven by students from BIO 159: Herpetology and supported by an interdisciplinary team at Stanford. They collaborated with a professional designer to create interpretive signs featuring student artwork. These signs provide insights into the seasonal cycles at Lagunita and include QR codes linking to more information on ongoing conservation efforts.

Installed in May along Lagunita's walking path, these signs encourage visitors to engage with "A Year in the Life of Lagunita." As foot traffic increases with the start of the academic year, Adelsheim hopes for active stewardship from both students and researchers: “As we enter the new school year, we’re hoping that the Stanford community will help steward Lagunita to ensure it remains a safe and clean habitat for the species that call it home.”

While public use of walking paths is encouraged, off-trail activities require approval through an Application for Use of University Foothill Lands.