Potter Lake Project

Potter Lake Project


A dedicated group of students spent one and a half years researching to understand the historical significance and potential natural beauty of Potter Lake. To complete a thorough study of Potter Lake, they conducted scientific analysis in order to better understand the physical and aesthetic properties of the lake. They also consulted with experts and assessed appropriate means of restoration while considering the needs of the University at large. Their report details what they believe to be the most cost-effective, sustainable, and historically compatible restorative solutions available at this time.

Download the Potter Lake Project Report (PDF)


History

For nearly 100 years, Potter Lake has served the University of Kansas as a well-loved landmark and historical icon. This nearly two-acre water feature was constructed in 1911 to serve as an on-site water source in case of fire. The glory days of Potter Lake saw swimming contests, regattas, dive towers, and a golf course. It became a focal point of University activity and entertainment for the greater portion of the twentieth century, and to this day is one of the most loved green spaces on campus. Over time, Potter Lake became a quiet and restful area that students and community members enjoyed. Ducks, fish and turtles provided more natural beauty to the picturesque site. The Dance Pavilion, a gift from the class of 1943 and formerly a popular common area, hosted countless sock hops during the 1950's and added social appeal to the site. Potter Lake is a meeting place, an excellent area for celebrations and weddings, and is an integral part of campus life for many students.

Potter Lake "A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is Earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature."

- Walden, Henry David Thoreau

The Issue

However, Potter Lake is no longer the ideal place that it once was. During the spring, summer, and fall, visitors can readily see and smell the algal blooms, massive plant growth, and decomposing plant and animal matter that are ubiquitous throughout the lake. Trash and waste oil float on the top of the water, while matted plants fill the pond below. These problems are not new; people have been complaining of the emission of foul odors from Potter Lake since the late 1960's, and little has been done to confront the problem. Potter Lake has serious sedimentation and eutrophication issues related to the inflow of water from the streets and parking lots around it. The area lacks traps for sediments and nutrients that are contaminating the lake, and it lacks trash receptacles or recycling bins to deter littering in both water and green space. Massive plant die-off during the fall turnover periods result in foul smells and low oxygen levels that leave the fish population at risk. The result is a campus icon that looks more like a farm pond than the picturesque landmark that it once was. It is time that we take care of this wonderful and historically significant site, so that the next generation can enjoy a revived Potter Lake instead of a pond that our university has forgotten.



This project is the work of KU students, faculty and partners, including:

  • Melissa Allen
  • Ryan Bigley
  • Lindsay Brisko
  • Ric Brown
  • Jack Connor
  • Ryan Callihan
  • Sam Gleeson
  • Alina Harbourne
  • Ezra Huscher
  • Vinur Kaul
  • John Kenny
  • Matthew Nahrstedt
  • England Porter
  • Sara Thompson
  • Timarie Trarbach
  • Abby Woody

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