UNM's Duck Pond reopens to campus community

Finally, University of New Mexico's Duck Pond is officially open. UNM's Duck Pond reopened amid a celebration featuring speakers, duck shaped cookies and buttons commemorating the reopening. The only thing missing was the ducks.

Originally designed by Garrett Eckbo and completed in 1976, the Duck Pond has long been celebrated for its scenic beauty and thriving wildlife. It was initially created as a man-made urban water feature, but over its nearly five decades, it grew into a beloved landmark for the campus and even greater Albuquerque community.

"It is my privilege to help celebrate the reopening of this very special place-a place that over the last 50 years has come to be not just an iconic feature of our landscape, but also the very heart of our campus itself," said UNM President Garnett S. Stokes. "This a place where generations of Lobos have joyfully met with new friends, celebrated accomplishments loudly, or quietly studied in the shade. It's a place where faculty and staff can take a moment to recharge and reflect at the end-or even the middle-of a long day.

"I don't think it's overstatement to say that The Duck Pond is UNM. It's a beloved symbol of our university, one of the first locations visitors head for, and one of the most-photographed icons on our campus. With this renovation, we haven't just restored a pond; we've renewed a piece of our shared history and invested in our future."

The Duck Pond Revitalization Project updated its aging infrastructure, improved water quality, enhanced safety and accessibility, all while easing long-term maintenance needs. The project was designed to strengthen the pond's ecological health while honoring its historic charm. Importantly, its iconic shape, appearance, and waterfall remain unchanged.

The renovation of this cherished campus space focused on its beauty, ecological sustainability, long-term maintenance and functionality for future generations while introducing meaningful improvements in sustainability and accessibility, both attributes in line with UNM's 2040 goals.

Major upgrades included a new pond liner to prevent water loss, modern biofilters, and a UV treatment system that improves water quality by reducing harmful algae and microorganisms. Accessibility enhancements will allow all visitors-including those using mobility aids-to enjoy the pond from every edge, making the space more inclusive while also advancing sustainability and ecological balance.

Materials for the planter walls and pond enclosure were upgraded for durability while the mechanical systems for the Duck Pond were modernized to improve water quality and to better support the surrounding ecology. These updates will also reduce the frequency of cleaning and maintaining the pond. All of which make the Duck Pond more sustainable, safer and give the structure increased longevity.

The pathway locations were widened in a few locations, and the grade was adjusted to meet accessibility standards so that everyone can enjoy the space. Some trees, which were in poor condition, were removed because they weren't structurally sound or safe, and new trees were planted in their stead.

The renovation isn't quite completed yet. New benches that match the original historic character will be installed by the end of September. The nine previous seating areas will receive new benches and two additional new seating areas are being added near Mitchell Hall at the South end of the pond.

"The restoration of this valuable Heritage Zone marks UNM's investment in our campus character, community assets, and commitment to sustainability," said University Planner and Director of Campus Capital and Space Planning Rosie Dudley. "It upholds the original vision and preservation guidelines while improving the water quality and habitat, making it easier to maintain, and improving safety and security with enhanced lighting and accessible paths.

"Future phases of improvements will include further furniture and landscaping enhancements to make this space a destination for future Lobos and the community at-large enabling the Duck Pond to continue to hold a special place in so many people's hearts."

Where are the ducks?

Some small turtles have naturally returned from the surrounding landscape. UNM's wildlife consultant is confident that wild ducks will return over time, but they will do so naturally. Introducing non-native species-such as pet fish, turtles, or birds-can cause harm to the ecosystem, disrupt native wildlife, and create long-term ecological challenges.

To help preserve the Duck Pond's beauty, health, and safety for all, UNM asks visitors not to feed the wildlife or bring unwanted domestic pets. While feeding ducks or other wild animals may seem harmless, it can cause overcrowding, disease, and malnutrition. Uneaten food pollutes the water and attracts pests, disrupting the pond's natural balance.

UNM's Facility Services also wants to remind the community that the Duck Pond is not a safe or appropriate home for unwanted pets. Releasing non-native animals such as pet fish, turtles, or birds can harm the ecosystem, endanger native wildlife, and create long-term environmental challenges. If you or someone you know needs help re-homing an animal, contact the City of Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department or reach out to a trusted local rescue organization for guidance and humane solutions.