January 20, 2009

Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort Recognized as “The Largest Green Water Park Project to Date.”

What is good for the environment is good for business! This statement is particularly meaningful for Jerry and Carolyn Fuhs, owner/developers of Big Splash Adventure Water Park & Resort.

“This has been most green project I have worked on to date,” quoted Jeff Nodorft, in the most recent issue of Tourist Attractions and Parks Magazine. Jeff Nodorft is the Studio Director for Councilman-Hunsaker, the lead design and engineering firm for Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort.

The new resort and water park will also be featured in the upcoming “green” issue of Waterpark Resorts Today. The unique design of this new resort is immediately noticeable, even from a distance. Big

Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort is housed in a clear panel aluminum structure designed

by Open Aire, Inc. The building is not only beautiful, but is a primary component of the energy efficient design. This glass structure allows for natural light, offering a significant reduction in energy consumption. The unique retractable roof and perimeter of windows promotes natural ventilation and air flow. Natural lighting and ventilation will provide a superior environment for guests.

The latest technology in water filtration “The Defender” by Neptune-Benson will allow for a substantial reduction in water usage by virtually eliminating the backwash that comes with traditional sand filtration systems. “The Defender” also provides state of the art water filtration and superior pool water quality, which allows a reduction in the use of chemicals. Efficient motor design also contributes to overall energy savings.

Ultraviolet Disinfectant Systems and high efficiency boilers round out the sustainable and energy efficient design of Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort. Whenever feasible, recycled materials were used in the construction process.

The laundry center will be equipped with Ozone Laundry. This system will reduce the need for hot water by up to 95%, while producing a superior result and increasing linen life.

Green solutions are also found in the IT department of Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort. David Gramelspacher, Director of IT, has designed a system utilizing a virtualization solution. This allows a reduction in the amount of power needed to operate the system. “Less power equals less heat and less need for air conditioning to maintain server room temperatures – the savings really add up over time.” states Gramelspacher.

“Following through with ‘green’ solutions as the project is finished and moves into daily operations is also important,” shares owner Carolyn Fuhs. “As we move forward, we will continually monitor where we can incorporate energy savings, recycled materials and environmentally friendly practices.”

Creating a partnership with guests will bring the project full circle. “The final step will be to include environmental education into our themed programming for children. We will offer field trips and programming that share our resort’s initiatives in a fun filled environment,” adds Marketing Director Vickie Lincks. “We will also be asking guest to participate in our towel and linen re-use program and to conserve energy by turning off the lights and television as they leave the guest room.”

As construction nears completion, the next step will be to start the process of pursuing LEED certification.

Good for the environment, good for business, good for guests. At Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort, that is a winning combination.