Q & A with Decorah swimming pool's management crew

Q--What are some of the highlights/good things that are happening at the pool this year?  What's the best part of being open?

A--We have had a lot of upgrades this year like fresh paint, new signs, new rules, more lifeguarding practice, and more! Much like other businesses adjusting to the pandemic with technology, COVID-19 has forced us to change some things for the better.

The biggest highlight has been seeing how happy and appreciative all of our customers are. Many people have been looking for an outlet and something to do for the last few months and knowing we can provide that in a safe, exciting way is really rewarding.
 
Q--What are some of the difficult parts? (For example, the website states the pool is operating at 37% capacity.  Has this created any problems, especially on those super hot days in the last week or so?)

A--We haven't had any problems with capacity, but it has forced us to get more organized. We have had to consider things we never have before. What information do we need to keep track of and know? How are we going to keep track of all of it? How many people will we need to help us? What will we have to do to enforce these changes? Luckily, we have had a great group of pool ambassadors volunteer their time and our whole team has been very open-minded with each new thing we have implemented. Right now, it may just seem like rules for a pandemic, but it really addresses basic manners and respect for others that we hope to help instill in our younger swimmers.

We have been working hard to disinfect and keep everything clean, while also monitoring social distancing. One of our favorites is the white painted circles in the grass! Not only does this keep everyone safer, it also helps swimmers remember their belongings! We also are not offering swim lessons this year. This was a tough decision to make, but there were just too many uncertainties in order to make this possible. In exchange, we have added a family time from 6pm to 7pm every day for families to practice their swimming skills together.
**Park and Rec directors are very happy with how things are going
 
Q--There's a lot of information on the website, but what else should people know before they put on their suits and head to the pool?

A--It's very important to us that all of our customers are happy and comfortable. No matter your age or health, we want each customer to respect the space and health of others. In addition to temperatures at the front door, face masks are strongly recommended on the pool deck, and social distancing is enforced. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been around someone who has tested positive, stay at home. At the end of the day, it is the responsibility of each one of us to keep the community healthy and safe. We do not sell any concessions this year. Swimmers can bring their own snacks inside, but we kindly ask them to pick up after themselves.
 
Q--The pool ambassadors are new this year.  What would you like to say about this group?

A--We are so grateful for our pool ambassadors. The days get hot and reminding the same little kiddos to respect social distancing can get a little repetitive, but their help is so appreciated. The ambassadors have volunteered with taking and recording temperatures and monitoring social distancing on the pool deck. Without them, the pool may not have existed this summer! We are also so thankful for the Park & Rec Board's decision to open the pool. It has been nice seeing some members stop by and check things out!

Q--What's one summary statement for the Decorah pool during the summer of 2020?

A--Even though we're living through a challenging time, a positive mindset with change and adaptation can go a long way!