Since it debuted in 1984, Six Flags White Water has been a big part of the Atlanta metro area. But a few months ago, operation this summer came into question because of the major drought gripping the Southeast region. Today, thanks to some forward-thinking changes, the crowds are coming and water is flowing as usual — almost.
The park has committed to a 10 percent water reduction this season, according to Public Relations Manager Hela Sheth. “We’re looking at it from a conservation standpoint,” Sheth says. “We can still provide the water fun for the public while saving water, and the guests appreciate that.”
To keep the various attractions running, operators implemented several measures: They updated all bathhouses, installing low-flow toilets, sinks and showers. They also created a water-conservation committee to help spread the message to all employees, and commissioned the digging of a well to provide more water for the park, supplementing city supplies. As of press time, the new well was expected to be online before the end of the season.
Water conservation changes at Six Flags White Water and its sister theme park totaled approximately $250,000, Sheth says. That’s money well spent for guests wanting to experience the more than 20 attractions. These include the 90-foot-tall Cliffhanger free-fall slide; the 700,000-gallon Atlanta Ocean wave pool; family raft slides such as Caribbean Plunge, Dragon’s Tail and Gulf Coast Screamer; and three children’s play pools.
OWNER: Six Flags Inc.
YEAR OPENED: 1984
SIZE: 45 acres
RIDES/ATTRACTIONS: 20+
SIGNATURE ATTRACTIONS: Tornado funnel slide
FUN FACT:White Water has not removed any rides since opening in ’84; in fact, it’s added more.
NO. OF LIFEGUARDS:More than 150
