Star Plunge fears dropping off the map

THERMOPOLIS – Under a revised Master Plan for the redevelopment of Hot Springs Sate Park in Thermopolis, access to the geothermal mineral water that currently provides two private bathhouses at the park could be restricted in the future. For Roland Luehne, owner of Star Plunge, the changes raise a few questions, and considerable worry.

"When the original Master Plan came out, Star Plunge wasn't even included on the map [of the park]," said Luehne. "I put together a petition to get Star Plunge on [the map], gathered 4,000 signatures and sent it to the governor, who in turn had the steering committee go back and look at the issue. Now, we are recognized on the map, but the Master Plan indicates that the mineral waters will be reserved only for the park."

As outlined by the draft Hot Springs State Park Master Plan (available at hotspringsmasterplan.com), "...certain active and high water demand recreational uses will be converted to a potable water source so continued recreation occurs with the intent of preserving the diminishing 'thermal waters for public health and welfare.'"

For Luehne, the idea of forcing the two concession pools (Star Plunge and Hellie's Tepee) to convert to potable, chlorinated water would kill not only their business, but also diminish the park as a tourist destination. "People come here to soak in the mineral waters, not swimming pool water," said Luehne. "They can and probably will do that somewhere else if the pools are forced to switch over."

Attending a Master Plan meeting with more than 100 residents on Monday night, Luehne found his concerns fell on deaf ears before the steering committee. "Nobody really said anything," noted Luehne. "Talking to those people is like talking to a brick wall."

Luehne leans heavily on his business reputation and ability to provide revenue to the community when arguing his case for continued access to the park's water. "This place, historically, is very important, as people have been visiting the park specifically for the water for over 100 years," said Luehne. "The beauty of it is it provides anywhere from $7 million - 20 million in annual revenue to the community. They come for the water and then visit lodging, restaurants, buy gas...you name it. That will all end if the current Master Plan passes."

According to TripAdvisor, a leading online travel review website, Star Plunge is listed as the No. 1 destination in Thermopolis, with local fishing and Hot Springs State Park following at second and third.

"It's a family tradition for us to come here, "said Bridger, Montana, native Diana Wham, standing in the lobby of Star Plunge. "We usually bring around 30 people with us. If they close, I wouldn't doubt if this town dries up."

Comments on the draft Hot Springs State Park Master Plan are being accepted through June 5 at 5 p.m.

To comment by mail write:

Attention: Hot Springs Comments

Wyoming State Parks

Barrett Building, Fourth Floor

2301 Central Avenue, Cheyenne, WY 82002

To comment by e-mail: [email protected].