Return to Nicholas Johnson's Iowa Rain Forest ("Earthpark") Web Site

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[Note: This material is copyright by KWWL-TV7, and is reproduced here as a matter of "fair use" for non-commercial, educational purposes only. Any other use may require the prior approval of KWWL-TV7.]

Former Governor Robert Ray is the Earthpark Board of Director Chair. He made the announcement to a room full of media. "After extensive discussion, the decision has been made and Earthpark will be located in the Red Rock Pella area."

The project will feature an indoor rain forest, a 600 thousand gallon freshwater aquarium and other attractions. Earthpark organizers estimate the project will attract up to 1.5 million visitors each year.

 The project will generate more than 100 million dollars in revenue. Executive Director David Oman says Pella was a good fit for the project. "The site along the north shore of Lake Red Rock is spectacular. It is a beautiful site along the largest body of water in Iowa."

The community also plays host to thousands of visitors each year for the tulip festival and other community attractions. "The have an understanding of tourism they hare comfortable with tourism and they want to grow tourism."

Now that the place is set...the real work starts. The first challenge is to get all the funding. The project will cost an estimated 150 million dollars. The biggest chunk of money will come from a 50 million dollar Department of Energy Federal Grant. Another 25 million will be raised by the Pella community. The group also hopes to get a Vision Iowa Grant and private funding. Oman says they will get a loan for the rest of the money needed.

The architect will start making renderings specifically for Pella with groundbreaking in 2007 and completion in 2010.