Current Projects — The Friends of Manito

Completed Projects

Thanks to the generosity and support of our members, The Friends of Manito has donated over $1,000,000 to help fund projects in the Park, enhancing its beauty and functionality.

Koi Pond Repair

Funded the replacement of damaged cobblestone around the koi pond in the Japanese Garden (2026).

Kiosk Plexiglass

Funded the replacement of damaged plexiglass in each of the five informational kiosks (2025).

Utility Tractor

Purchased a utility tractor with a complete cab fit for all-season use by Park staff (2025).

Duncan Fountain Repair

Funded the repair of the Davenport Fountain in Duncan Garden (2025). This fountain was erected in 1956 and presented to the citizens of Spokane in memory of Louis M. Davenport by his wife and son.

Gaiser Conservatory Boiler

Contributed to the replacement of the boiler providing heat to the greenhouses and Gaiser Conservatory (2026).

Bicycle Rack

Provided funds for a public art bike rack featuring the Duncan Garden tulip motif that was designed and constructed by local artist Ken Spiering (2024).

Picnic Tables

Purchased 2 picnic tables that were installed near the Japanese Garden, creating a peaceful, welcoming area for Park visitors to rest, reflect, and connect with nature in the calm shade (2026).

Mirror Pond

Helped fund a major effort to make the pond healthy without the use of toxic chemicals (2023-2024). The project safely removed indigenous wildlife, excavated the bottom to remove sediment and deepen it to reduce algae bloom, installed a treatment wetland to filter out phosphorous and nitrogen, and reintroduced water and native wildlife.