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MINNETRISTA
Muncie, IN
The Minnetrista project represents more than 20 years of coordinated planning, design, and construction across a series of interconnected landscape, infrastructure, and restoration efforts. Work has included greenway trail development, streambank stabilization, stormwater management systems, habitat restoration, and the creation of destination spaces such as gardens, overlooks, and educational environments.
1997-2026
Minnetrista
PROJECT BACKGROUND
Flatland Resources’ relationship with Minnetrista is defined by sustained collaboration and a wide range of implemented improvements that advance both environmental function and visitor experience. Key contributions include the construction of a river overlook, the alignment and development of the White River Greenway trail system through the Minnetrista campus and gardens, and multiple streambank stabilization projects that improve river health while reinforcing public access along the corridor.
In response to ongoing erosion concerns, targeted stormwater and stabilization strategies were implemented along a segment of the White River Greenway adjacent to the property. Approximately 300 feet of vegetated swales were installed and planted with native species to capture runoff and promote infiltration. Additional stabilization measures, including coir fascines and live staking, were used to reinforce the streambank and reduce long-term erosion risk. At the downstream end of the system, a constructed cascade was introduced to reduce water velocity before discharge into the White River, improving both hydrologic performance and the aesthetic quality of the corridor.
The Oakhurst Gardens restoration further extended this work through a multi-year design-build effort focused on the historic George and Frances Ball residence and grounds. Guided by archival research and site analysis, a five-year master plan directed the conversion of the estate into a publicly accessible museum facility, incorporating ADA upgrades and modern building systems while preserving its historic character. The restoration emphasized the property’s “height of occupancy,” when three generations of the Ball family resided there, ensuring that final conditions reflected the site’s historical significance. The project also included the redesign of Minnetrista Boulevard into a two-way corridor with period lighting and a multi-use bike trail aligned with the White River Greenway Master Plan, requiring coordination across multiple funding sources and institutional partners to achieve a unified public destination.
The Minnetrista Nature Area was developed through a collaborative design-build process led by Flatland Resources in partnership with multiple Ball State University Landscape Architecture studios. Formerly a gravel pit, the site was transformed into a diverse ecological landscape organized into distinct habitat zones. A stormwater swale system was implemented to manage runoff from adjacent infrastructure, improving hydrologic function while supporting ecological restoration. Additional features, including a natural amphitheater and boardwalk system, were integrated to expand accessibility, environmental education, and passive recreation opportunities.
The Minnetrista Rose Garden, developed under the direction of Phil Tevis during his tenure as Director of Facilities, Planning Management, and Horticulture, serves as a key destination within the campus. Designed as both a formal landscape and functional event space, the garden supports weddings, photography, and community gatherings, contributing to Minnetrista’s cultural programming and economic sustainability.
OVERLOOK UNDER CONSTRUCTION
PROJECT PERSONNEL
PHIL
project lead
+project manager
+project designer
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ROSE GARDEN & GAZEBO
MINNETRISTA PARKWAY
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WHITE RIVER GREENWAY
MINNETRISTA PARKWAY
OAKHURST POST RESTORATION
OAKHURST POST RESTORATION
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STORMWATER SWALE
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