In a remarkable display of community spirit and environmental stewardship, multiple Rotary Clubs in San Francisco, in collaboration with Sutro Stewards' Trail Builders, spearheaded a transformative day of service on April 20 at Rotary Meadow atop Sutro Forest. Stephanie Schmautz led the event as she has done in the past three years.
Fifty dedicated individuals rolled up their sleeves to weed, build trails, and enhance the park for future visitors. The idea for Rotary Meadow traces back to Harold Hoogasian, Past President of the Rotary Club San Francisco (2001-2002), who envisioned a space where Rotary's mission of fostering peace through good work could tangibly take root. And he built on a site that was commandeered by the US Military.
Past President Harold Hoogasian, District Governor Laine Hendricks, La Carre Ivy, and Phil Ye
Situated atop Mt. Sutro, the meadow occupies what was once a site for radar control during the Cold War era — a stark contrast to its current role as a pastoral garden. In the 1950s, the mountain's peak was leveled to accommodate radar equipment to control the launch of Nike Missiles dotted across the Bay Area. You can Google "Mount Sutro and Missiles Photos" to view copyrighted images. Today, crisscrossing pathways invite visitors to stroll through the eucalyptus glade originally planted by Adolph Sutro in the 1800s. The site is frequented by neighbors, visitors from throughout the Bay, and especially by UCSF students seeking a refuge from the demands of their educational programs.
On a radiant morning bathed in golden sunlight, volunteers experienced the quintessence of the poet's union of humanity and nature. Working together, they not only nurtured the land, but also forged connections with one another, reveling in the shared endeavor of preserving this remote oasis amidst urban San Francisco. The work of these volunteers was a testament to the enduring commitment of individuals to their community and environment.
Stephanie Schmautz's tireless efforts ensured the success of the third annual Rotary Environmental Day of Service in San Francisco County. In the heart of Sutro Forest, Rotary Meadow stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the transformative potential of envisioning a more peaceful, sustainable world.
