Mirror Pond Restoration, Manito Park

AHBL provided civil engineering and landscape architecture services to restore Manito Park’s Mirror Pond, focusing on improving water quality. The team began by analyzing pond sediment and water samples from Mirror Pond and a nearby Qualchan Golf Course pond to establish a baseline. Partnering with Budinger and Associates for subsurface exploration, AHBL also researched national case studies in similar climates to identify effective water quality solutions.

The final design included dredging to remove biomass, deepening the pond, and installing a perpetual pump system. A new wetland feature filters phosphorus and nitrogen to reduce algae blooms. Water is circulated through two planted hillside areas and a waterfall before returning to the pond. Enhancements also include an artistic cast iron pedestrian bridge, interpretive signage, and a maintenance plan to sustain plant-based nutrient removal and control erosion.

Teaming Partners

• Owner: City of Spokane Parks and Recreation
• Geotechnical Engineer: Budinger and Associates
• Contractor: Ditches Unlimited