Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Ardurra designed life support system rehabilitation for the Smithsonian National Zoological Park's marine mammal facilities, transforming a 300,000-gallon sea lion pool and 125,000-gallon seal pool through phased construction while maintaining continuous operations. The project required converting freshwater pools to saltwater systems and replacing aged, corroded, or undersized equipment under constrained site conditions.

The rehabilitation incorporates ozone as the primary disinfectant, enhanced leaf and litter removal, increased filtration capacity, and simplified operations, while adding two new life-support systems for animal holding pools and a standard backwash recovery system. Sustainable design elements establish the facility as a model for energy and water conservation within the zoo and aquarium industry.

Key Rehabilitation Services:

• Designed life support rehabilitation for 300,000-gallon Sea Lion Pool and 125,000-gallon Seal Pool at Smithsonian National Zoo

• Converted freshwater pools to saltwater systems, incorporating ozone disinfection and enhanced filtration while maintaining continuous operations

• Conducted intensive concept design with 3-D laser survey documenting as-built conditions, establishing rehabilitation scope and feasibility

• Added two new life support systems for animal holding pools with a standard backwash recovery system within constrained site conditions

• Implemented sustainable design innovations, establishing the facility as an energy and water conservation model for the zoo and aquarium industry

• Provided extensive Zoo project experience, including Elephant Trails bridging documents, Wetlands/Migratory Birds planning, and Amazonia construction documents

• Designed Amazonia exhibit systems supporting 50,000 gallons of aquaria displaying arowana, river stingray, and diverse catfish species

Ardurra's extensive Smithsonian Zoo experience includes serving on the Facilities Master Planning team and designing the zoo's largest and most complex exhibit. The marine mammal facility rehabilitation demonstrates innovative approaches to life-support system upgrades while maintaining animal welfare and operational continuity throughout the construction phases.