By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The Great Bend Wetlands Waterpark is always a popular place to beat the summer
heat, but maybe even more so this year. Great Bend Public Lands Director Scott
Keeler said the pool is completely booked for the rest of the summer with
private parties during afterhours.
Typical charge for a private party is $150 per hour with an extra expense to keep the concession stand open.
Keeler jokingly refers to this year’s staff as the “baby crew” with so many
first-time, young lifeguards. The crew may be young, but it is strong with 55
employees. Out of those 55, there are 46 lifeguards and nine staff members for the concession
stand.
Keeler said there has to be 15 lifeguards on duty at all times.
"There are 13 lifeguards on stand, and every hour they get a 15-minute break," said Keeler. "Through the rotation, you always have two guards down for a break. We do that to ensure they can go to the restroom, cool down and get something to drink. That's to help them be more aware and perform their duties properly."
Aug. 14 will be the last day the pool in Great Bend is open. The
annual “Bark in the Park” event will take place Aug. 20, allowing
pet owners to bring their dogs to swim for a $5 donation per dog.