BY TREY WRIGHT
GIFTED YOUTH MEMBER-AT-LARGE
JUNE 2024
On June 8th, Mensans from the San Francisco Region engaged in ecological conservation in Presidio Park SF. They partnered with the Presidio Park Stewards, targeting an invasive species called purple velvet grass (holcus lanatus). Despite its soft texture and beautiful, variegated colors, the purple velvet grass contains chemicals that harm native Californian species. Additionally, upon arriving, the group observed that the grass had overspread much of the allotted area, choking out biodiversity. The event attracted groups from around the Bay Area. Upon learning that purple velvet is native to Britain and somehow ended up in California, one volunteer joked, “Just like me!”
Mensans grabbed their pickaxes and gardening gloves and got to work uprooting the wily plant. 5-year-old Mensan Maurice describes the process: “We learned to find the gray clumps of the plant, dig out the root, and include some soil to ensure no root fibers are left behind, preventing regrowth.” The work was technically and physically challenging, leading many volunteers to request knee pads to relieve their tired backs. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable outing with genial interactions. While taking a break to eat fig and granola bars, the volunteers had a chance to meet the people they were working with, including the representative from Presidio Park Stewards.
In total, the group was able to gather over 100 pounds of the invasive species, leaving a sizable patch of soil primed for the growth of native species.
Trey and His Brother
Maurice, Ming, and Angela
Don’t tell my husband that I came to San Francisco to pull weeds; we have weeds that need pulling in our own yard.
Marjorie and Her Sons
