Community Corner

Can We Save a Local Endangered Species?

The San Mateo County Parks Foundation is raising money through crowdfunding to continue the restoration of the endangered San Mateo thornmint population.

By Kat Poblete 

Off road vehicle use and urbanization have eradicated all but a few clusters of San Mateo Thornmint, a plant that is recognized by the state and federal government as being on the verge of extinction.  

In 2008, scientists were able to find only 249 of these plants — a steep decline from 1994's population, which was estimated at over 53,000.   

Acanthomintha duttonii, commonly called San Mateo Thornmint or Dutton's acanthomintha, is a species of annual plant endemic to San Mateo County in the Lamiaceae family, according to Wikipedia. It is found growing on Serpentine soils on the east side of Montara Mountain at elevations of approximately 150 to 300 meters near the Crystal Springs Reservoir in a six mile long strip toward Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve.

Currently, San Mateo County is partnering with Citizinvestor to raise funds for the Thornmint's preservation through crowdfunding. If you value California's biodiversity, then consider spreading the word about the San Mateo Thornmint or even making an individual donation here.  

We’re just over $5,000 away from our goal, and every bit helps.

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