Day Fifty-Four: Potter's Lake

Yesterday I introduced you to Polly's Pond, one of newest bodies of water on the University of Kansas campus. Today's photo subject is KU's oldest body of water: Potter's Lake.

Potter's Lake came into existence around the year 1910 when it was decided that a reservoir was needed to provide water to the campus in case of fire. Once deep enough for a high dive, the lake (named after then Kansas senator T.M. Potter) was put to use by swimmers in the summers and skaters in the winters.

Though no longer a swimming hole, students can still be found picnicking, studying, or resting here between classes.

Erosion and pollution are threatening the survival of Potter's Lake, which is now measures only 3 feet at its deepest point. If build-up of sediment continues on the lake's floor, it could eventually dry up completely. Currently a group of students has started an initiative, the Potter's Lake Project, to help in the restoration of the lake.

Students in need of a quiet getaway, pets in need of a place to run, and photographers in need of a photo-of-the-day can all enjoy the peaceful refuge that Potter's Lake provides. Hopefully it remains a centerpiece of the KU campus for generations to come.