Point Mallard Aquatic Center
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Point Mallard Park's J. Gilmer Blackburn Aquatic Center, in the city of Decatur, AL, was developed in the early 1970's after Mayor Gilmer Blackburn saw enclosed "wave-making" swimming pools in Germany and thought one could be a tourist attraction in the United States. J. Austin Smith, an Ohio Wave Pool manufacturer, worked with the City of Decatur to design and install the nation's first wave pool in 1970.
Since that time it has been a popular attraction for North Alabama families ever since, with various water rides added. Between 130,000 to 180,000 people visit each summer, between Memorial Day and Labor Day, making it one of the states most popular seasonal attractions. In 1987 the park was named after Mayor Blackburn.
[edit] Activities at Point Mallard Aquatic Center
- Wave Pool: 180 feet of Contionous Wave Action
- Diving Pool: 2-diving boards and a 3-tier 10 meter diving platform (the top tier is now closed, due to injuries)
- Water Slides: Over 1,100 feet of water slide action
- Sky Pond: inner-tube plunge off 40-ft tower
- Duck Pond: a water play area for younger children
- Olympic Pool: A Huge "T" shape swimming area
- Squirt Factory: kid's activity area
- Sand Beach: along the Flint Creek, (a major tributary to the Tennessee River)
- Park Amenities: Concessions, Gift Shop, Picnic Areas and Playground.
