DISCOVERY COVE

Freshwater Oasis

DISCOVERY COVE

Freshwater Oasis Exhibit


Location: Orlando, FL

Owner: Sea World Corporation

Structural Engineer:  MLA Engineering


The new Freshwater Oasis replaces the previous salt-water reef interactive exhibit at this location.  Engineering solutions required that the existing pool be drained, re-graded, a new structural slab and waterproof membrane installed that would provide a water-tight fresh-water exhibit.  Design for resisting buoyancy due to high ground water and hydrostatic pressure during construction was critical in providing a safe site while reducing the length of time that dewatering was required. Site features include a partially underwater viewing shelter, where visitors can experience a “nose-to-nose” moment with sea otters.