A new one-of-kind natural ecosystem is taking shape in downtown Springfield. Horace Mann is working with Knob Hill Landscape to transform the fountain at its headquarters into an eco-friendly habitat with a wetland the size of two standard in-ground swimming pools.

The 160,000-gallon ecosystem is recirculated through a large wetland filtration system that does not require chemicals. It also includes a large permeable paver patio to view the waterfall. The project is expected to be completed in mid-April.