City of Coeur d'Alene Arts Commission Unveils "Sid" The Green Energy Dragon

The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is proud to announce the installation of its newest public artwork, “Sid” The Green Energy Dragon, created by Spokane artist Melissa Cole.  This vibrant sculpture is nestled along the Centennial Trail and Spokane River at the Coeur d’Alene Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility (AWTF).

As a publicly owned facility, the AWTF operates under some of the most stringent effluent discharge regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  Using advanced tertiary treatment technologies, the facility processes nearly four million gallons of wastewater daily before safely discharging to the Spokane River.

In an effort to engage and educate the public, the City’s Wastewater Department and the Arts Commission sought a creative and interactive way to raise awareness about the wastewater treatment process---specifically, the role of biogas.  A byproduct of our wastewater treatment, biogas is used as a heat source, with any excess safely burned off. “Sid” The Green Energy Dragon visually represents this process, incorporating an open flame into its whimsical design to symbolize the transformation of waste into energy.

“Sid” The Green Energy Dragon is warmly named after Haldo Sidney “Sid” Frederickson IV, who had an award-winning career at the AWTF and was dedicated to advancing more efficient and effective wastewater treatment technologies.  Sid served the City of Coeur d’Alene for 30 years, working in the wastewater department from 1991 to 2016.  Born in 1945 in Richmond, Utah, he passed away on November 13, 2017, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and commitment to environmental stewardship.

The sculpture also features an educational component, including a glass mosaic illustrating how anaerobic bacteria convert waste into methane.  Students from the Coeur d’Alene Boys and Girls Club contributed to the project by creating mosaic elements integrated into the artwork.

“Coeur d’Alene is providing a fun and imaginative way for the community to learn about the AWTF and the role of biogas,’ said Mayor Woody McEvers.  “This sculpture is not only a beautiful addition to our public art collection but also an opportunity to educate and inspire.”

The dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for “Sid” The Green Energy Dragon will take place on April 24, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., at the AWTF, located along the Centennial Trail at 1080 Hubbard Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814. ###