deteriorate it so quickly that it would have to be frequently replaced . Not only does this thatch look incredibly realistic , but it is also ecoresponsible , recyclable , fire-retardant , weatherresistant , waterproof , and even durable in high winds , which comes in handy during Florida ’ s hurricane season .
Many of the ornamental flowers and trees that adorn the parks in difficultto-reach areas are also artificial , although I won ’ t say which ones . In addition to boasting similar ecofriendly benefits as the thatched roofs , these flowers and trees help Disney to reduce watering , the use of pesticides , and overall maintenance costs .
FAR BEYOND DISNEY WORLD A couple of years before Disney ’ s Animal Kingdom opened , I was asked to write the copy for the first brochure explaining what Disney ’ s Conservation Fund was all about . Since 1995 , the Disney Conservation Fund has further strengthened Disney ’ s commitment to conservation . While it isn ’ t well-known among even Disney fans , let alone the general public , the fund ’ s work is vital and something we can all be proud of . Writing a brochure may not have seemed that exciting or glamorous at the time , but looking back , it ’ s one of the most important pieces I had the pleasure of working on .
One interesting observation : If you look at the logos that were provided to me for the Disney Conservation Fund piece , they virtually mirror the now-familiar logo for Disney ’ s Animal Kingdom … even though this project predated that theme park by three years . Obviously , all part of the plan , like most things at Disney .
I hope you continue enjoying Figments of my Imagineering as much as I enjoy writing it . If you ’ d like to reach out directly , you can email me : brian @ wdwithme . com . Hakuna Matata , everyone .
Backstage passes to a 1989 golf tournament . PHOTO BY ERNIE CARR