Planning Design Studio developed a master plan and conceptual design for the renovation of the three main lakes at the Saint Louis Zoo. The existing lakes were in need of major repairs and upgrades, particularly in regard to overall sustainability. Historically, the zoo spent a significant amount of money refilling the lakes and flushing out algae blooms during the summer months. The goal of this project was to create a self-sustaining lake system that collects, filters and reuses water from a larger area of the zoo property. The new design also upgrades the lake edge condition, improves water quality, reduces nuisance plant species while preserving established trees, and re-establishes a natural ecosystem around the lakes.

The design features a water treatment forebay system to filter and clean water collected from around the zoo. Habitats around and within the lake were improved with native Missouri meadow plantings, native wildflower beds, tree snag habitats, underwater pelican perches, and fish spawning beds. Additionally, maintenance
boat access points were provided and screened with plantings.

 

The scope of the initial effort was to develop an overall master plan that would guide improvements and inform order of magnitude cost estimating. This led to the completion of schematic design, with further project phases planned for the near future.