Outstanding Sustainable Engineering Project

Boulder Pond & Playground is a unique recreational outdoor community amenity offering a variety of community experiences, including a three quarters -mile of walking paths, a 3.5-acre pond, and a playground for children of all ages, developed as part of the Rienda community at Rancho Mission Viejo. The park provides a rejuvenating outdoor experience, enveloped by the serene beauty of water and the captivating presence of wildlife attracted to the pond. Landscape and playground features around the perimeter of the pond invite kids to climb, swing, roll, and explore. As they play, families can take in breathtaking views of the lush aquatic biome. 

The central feature of the park is the two-tier, 3.5-acre pond. The Upper Pond (1.2 acres) and Lower Pond (2.3 acres) are connected by a striking 6-foot-tall cascading waterfall that spans 60 feet in width. A series of tiered cascades flank the north and south ends of the waterfall, while the center features a freefall drop plunging over the full 6-foot height. To create a natural and cohesive shoreline, the design incorporates eroded concrete, cobblestone, boulder embankments, and wetland planters showcasing a naturalistic aesthetic with unique form and textures. Altogether, the shoreline stretches 2,500 feet.