Lake Merritt Institute Impact Report – Summer 2025
In 2024, the Lake Merritt Institute removed 75,960 gallons of trash from the shorelines and waters of our beloved lake. It was a huge achievement—one made possible by the dedication of our volunteers, partners, and supporters.
As of August 1st, 2025, we’ve already removed 64,950 gallons of trash. We are encouraged by the growing number of volunteers who have stepped up to help protect and keep up with the pace to restore the lake. Thanks to their commitment, we are on track to significantly exceed last year’s cleanup totals.
We’re grateful to share another community win: thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters this year, we’re able to offer our free Watershed Field Day program for local students this 2025-2026 school year. This hands-on program gives youth the chance to explore Lake Merritt, learn about the importance of a healthy watershed, and take part in a cleanup of their own. It’s an investment in the next generation of lake stewards.
While our volunteer numbers and classroom participation have steadily grown, our staff size has stayed the same—just 2.5 positions (two full-time staff and one part-time). With such a small but mighty team, community support is essential to sustain this momentum.
This makes individual donations and local partnerships even more critical to keeping our work going strong. Your continued support makes all of this possible. Together, we can protect Lake Merritt’s wildlife, improve water quality, and keep this urban treasure thriving for everyone to enjoy.
Want to get involved?
Join us at our public cleanups every Tuesday and Saturday at 10am (568 Bellevue Ave, Oakland) or consider making a donation to keep these programs going strong.
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