Iowa State University is preparing to begin a major transformation of Lake LaVerne, marking the most significant renovation of the campus landmark in nearly 30 years.
Located in Ames, the nearly three-acre lake will undergo a comprehensive overhaul aimed at improving water quality, enhancing usability, and modernizing the surrounding environment for students and visitors.
The project will begin with a full drainage of the lake—an uncommon but necessary step to address years of sediment buildup and declining water conditions. Crews are expected to remove more than a thousand dump-truck loads of accumulated debris, algae, and sediment that have gradually made the lake shallower.
Campus planner Chris Strawhacker highlighted the visible impact of these changes, stating:
“The aesthetics of the lake get compromised occasionally, when the water quality isn’t the best.”
Beyond environmental improvements, the cleanup could also uncover unexpected items long rumored to be beneath the surface.
“You know, there are definitely stories about bicycles and textbooks and that sort of thing. So we’re kind of curious to see what we find,” Strawhacker said.
Lake LaVerne has long served as both a recreational and academic resource. While certain traditions have faded, the lake continues to support coursework and student activities.
Reflecting on its legacy, Strawhacker added:
“When I was a student, we had courses that built boats that had to float on the lake.”
He noted that although such activities are no longer common, the lake remains an important site for environmental study and observation.
“That sort of thing doesn’t happen, but it is used for coursework. Sampling the water, looking at the plants and animals that are in the lake, and sketching.”
Today, the lake functions primarily as a passive gathering space where students relax and connect with nature.
“People fish, just sit and watch the wildlife and the birds, enjoy the flowers and trees,” he said.
The redesign aims to preserve the lake’s calm atmosphere while introducing features that encourage greater engagement and accessibility. Planned upgrades include:
These additions reflect a broader push to create more flexible outdoor spaces that support both recreation and community programming on campus.
The project is expected to cost more than $5 million, with approximately 64% funded through private donations—highlighting strong alumni and community support for campus improvements.
Construction is scheduled to begin later this spring, with completion anticipated by 2028.
This renovation aligns with a growing trend among universities to reinvest in existing campus infrastructure, particularly outdoor spaces that enhance student experience and sustainability. By addressing long-standing environmental concerns while introducing modern amenities, Iowa State is positioning Lake LaVerne as a central hub for both academic and social life.
Once completed, the revitalized lake is expected to serve as a more vibrant, accessible, and environmentally resilient centerpiece for the campus community.
Originally reported by JD Snover in We Are Iowa.
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