3. Eco-Balancing Act

Diatoms are part of the pool’s microbial food web. They feed tiny zooplankton, which in turn help control mosquito larvae and other nuisances, keeping your pool biologically balanced.

4. Low-Maintenance Allies

Unlike mechanical filters or chemical treatments, diatoms do their job quietly and efficiently without any added cost or effort from you—assuming your pool stays within healthy ecological parameters.

Encouraging Diatom Growth
Want to make sure these microscopic allies thrive in your pool? Here’s how:

• Avoid harsh chemicals (Obviously): Diatoms can’t survive in chlorinated environments. Natural pools give them the ideal chemical-free home.
• Maintain plant zones: Healthy aquatic plants create the right conditions, nutrient balance, light filtration, and oxygen for diatoms to flourish.
• Support water circulation: Diatoms prefer gently moving water, which also helps prevent unwanted algae.
• Let sunlight in: Diatoms are photosynthetic, so ensure they get enough indirect light (too much sun, however, can cause unwanted algae to compete).

The Bottom Line
Diatoms may be invisible to the naked eye, but their contribution to your natural swimming pool is huge. By supporting a vibrant and self-sustaining aquatic ecosystem, they reduce your workload while keeping your water naturally clean, safe, and sparkling.

So next time you dip your toes into your pool, take a moment to appreciate the tiny glass-walled organisms working tirelessly to keep it beautiful.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 5/8/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

• Less suspended debris
• Algae starting to die off
• Water clarity beginning to improve

Days 4–5: Natural Filtration Kicks In
With the swimming zone cleaned up, the natural filtration system begins to wake up and take over. Within the system:

• Aquatic plants in the regeneration zone start actively absorbing nutrients from the water.
• Gravel and filter media foster colonies of beneficial bacteria that digest organic material.
• Circulating water distributes oxygen and pushes impurities through the filtration zones.

Days 6–7: Crystal Clear Waters
By the end of the week, the pool will look like a different place entirely. What was once a green, uninviting mess is now a clear, healthy, and vibrant body of water.

The transformation is so fast because the pool’s ecology is designed to self-regulate, once it’s not overwhelmed with excess nutrients or decomposing matter. No chemicals needed. No draining required. Just simple, consistent maintenance and trust in the system.

As long as the regeneration zone is healthy and there’s enough circulation, the system can rebound quickly, even after a long dormant season.

Final Tips for a Smooth Start-Up

• Vacuum daily for the first week, or until most sediment is gone.
• Clean skimmers and filters every few days to avoid clogs.
• Check pumps and circulation to ensure even water flow through both zones.

The Takeaway
A dirty, green natural pool at the beginning of the season is normal, and reversible. With just a week of consistent vacuuming and allowing the natural filtration system to do its job, your pool can go from murky to magnificent without a single drop of chlorine. It’s a testament to the resilience and beauty of nature, when you work with it, not against it.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 5/1/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

We would love to hear about your current BioNova® projects. Please send Ryan, ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com, any information and pictures of your projects and we will gladly put them in the newsletter to share with all of the dealers. Thank you and we hope to see your inputs soon!

Here’s what’s happening at BioNova® Natural Pools North America…

Another NSP in Arizona
Our BioNova® Dealer in Arizona, Zach Balbini, has been busy, and he has completed another project, this one in Sabino Canyon, Arizona.

Proving that natural swimming pools can be created from virtually any starting point, this innovative project in Tucson, Arizona showcases the versatility and performance of BioNova’s biological filtration systems. What began as a standard fiberglass shell has been transformed into a thriving, chemical-free aquatic environment, demonstrating that sustainability and design flexibility can go hand in hand.

Located near the stunning Sabino Canyon area at the base of Mt. Lemmon, the project features the 9’ x 18’ “Canyon Lake” model from San Juan Fiberglass Pools and then was paired with a 5-tube BF4 biofilm filtration system (2.5’ x 10’), allowing it to function as a fully natural swimming pool. 

One of the most striking aspects of this installation is its elevated design. The pool is raised two feet above grade, creating a visually dynamic, three-dimensional feature that stands out in the surrounding desert landscape. A wraparound deck, crafted from elegant travertine stone, provides both functionality and comfort, offering ample space for lounging, socializing, and easy access to the water.

Travertine is particularly well-suited for desert environments like Tucson due to its natural ability to stay cool underfoot, even in intense sun exposure. Its light color reflects heat rather than absorbing it, making it far more comfortable than many other hardscape materials. Additionally, travertine’s porous surface offers excellent slip resistance, an important safety feature around pools, while its durability allows it to withstand extreme temperature swings common in desert climates.

Beyond aesthetics, the raised configuration serves a practical purpose, helping to minimize the intrusion of desert dust and debris, a common challenge in arid regions. The combination of elevation and thoughtful material selection results in a pool area that is both beautiful and highly functional.

To further enhance usability, the pool is equipped with a heating system, so that the pool may be used year round. This blend of natural filtration and modern comfort highlights how natural pools can be tailored to meet a wide range of lifestyle needs without sacrificing sustainability.

After six months of operation, the system recently underwent its first backwash cycle following the initial startup period. The results exceeded expectations: the water clarity was exceptional, reinforcing the effectiveness of the BF4 biofilm filtration system even in a demanding desert environment. This milestone not only validates the system’s performance but also provides confidence in its long-term reliability.

Looking ahead, the homeowner plans to integrate a rainwater catchment system and cistern to collect and reuse backwash water. This forward-thinking addition will further reduce water waste and support the surrounding garden and native landscape, creating a closed-loop system that aligns perfectly with the principles of ecological design.

This project stands as another strong example of Zach Balbini’s continued dedication to advancing NSPs in a wide range of applications. By reimagining a conventional fiberglass shell into a high-performing natural pool, Zach demonstrates both a commitment to innovation and a belief that sustainable water systems should be accessible, adaptable, and visually compelling. Great job to Zach and his team on another outstanding NSP!

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 4/24/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

The Importance of Moving Water in a Natural Swimming Pond

We know that water movement is key in an NSP system, but just how important is it and just what exactly does it do. Whether through pumps, waterfalls, or strategically placed circulation systems, moving water plays a vital role in maintaining the pond’s ecological balance, water clarity, and overall appeal.

1. Oxygenation: Sustaining Aquatic Life

Water movement promotes oxygenation, which is critical for the beneficial bacteria and aquatic plants. Just like in natural lakes and rivers, moving water in a pond introduces oxygen from the atmosphere into the water. This dissolved oxygen is vital for aerobic bacteria, which break down organic waste and keep the ecosystem healthy. In stagnant water, oxygen levels can drop dramatically, leading to foul odors and the death of aquatic life.

2. Algae Control and Water Clarity

Stagnant water creates an ideal environment for algae blooms, which can quickly turn a crystal-clear swimming pond into a murky green mess. Moving water helps disrupt algae growth in several ways:

• It prevents sunlight from penetrating uniformly, disrupting algae photosynthesis.
• It supports the growth of beneficial microbes that outcompete algae for nutrients.
• It helps distribute natural algaecides from aquatic plants more effectively throughout the pond.

With proper circulation, natural swimming ponds stay clearer and require less maintenance.

3. Preventing Mosquito Breeding
Mosquitoes thrive in still water, laying eggs that quickly hatch into larvae. By keeping the water moving, especially at the surface, you make the environment less hospitable for mosquito reproduction. A well-circulated pond can dramatically reduce the risk of mosquito infestation, making the swimming experience more enjoyable and reducing the potential spread of mosquito-borne diseases.

4. Aesthetic and Sensory Benefits
Beyond the biological and chemical benefits, moving water enhances the sensory experience of a natural swimming pond. The gentle sound of a waterfall or bubbling stream adds tranquility, masks noise pollution, and brings a dynamic, living quality to the landscape. Visually, flowing water reflects light differently, creating shimmer and movement that enhance the pond’s natural beauty.

5. Supporting Natural Filtration Zones
Most natural swimming ponds include two key zones: a swimming zone and a regeneration zone filled with gravel and aquatic plants. For these zones to function effectively, water must continuously flow between them. Circulation ensures that water passes through the plant roots and biological filter media, where impurities are removed and water is naturally purified before returning to the swimming area.

Conclusion
Moving water is the lifeblood of a healthy natural swimming pond. It fosters a balanced ecosystem, prevents problems before they arise, and enhances the sensory appeal of your outdoor space. Whether powered by pumps or designed through passive water flow systems, integrating effective circulation is essential to ensuring your natural swimming pond remains a safe, sustainable, and beautiful place to enjoy for years to come.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 4/17/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

Spring Opening Tips to Remember
It is spring and the the pool opening season has begun. It’s that time to focus on the special needs an NSP needs when opening and we would like to provide some tips to help you and your clients prepare for spring and getting an NSP up and running.

1. Clean Out Debris from the Water

This is very important. In fact, it’s the most important step to protect against harmful bacteria and nutrient overload. When cleaning, make sure you vacuum the bottom, take care of leaves, pull out the decaying plants, backwash and clean the BF4 vault and tubes, a clean out any pots. While cleaning out the pots this is a great time to add granulated fertilizer or plant fertilizing tabs to stimulate plant growth.

2. Begin Water Filtration 

Start up all of the pumps and get the water circulating. If you live in an area where your pond can dip below 40 degrees during winter, be sure to only activate the pumps once your water reaches back over the 50 degree mark. For warmer climates, you may have been running pumps all winter. If so, continue use of as necessary.

The two most important preparatory steps for Spring are cleaning out any debris in the pond and ensuring properly functioning filtration.
3. Let Time and Bacteria Improve Your Biological Filter

Mother nature needs time to balance the water and patience with an NSP will be your best friend. Specifically, once temperature approach 65 degrees nitrifying bacteria will begin to become active. These bacteria get their energy from the oxidation of inorganic nitrogen compounds.  Types include ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB). Both ammonia and nitrites are harmful to an aquatic environment and build up in the water over the winter. These bacteria oxidize those compounds into nitrate which is beneficial to a healthy NSP.

Please feel free to contact us if you or your clients have any questions during their spring openings.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 4/10/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

Update NSP Project in Catonsville, Maryland

We’re excited to share a new update on the NSP project in Catonsville, MD. Since our last announcement, several key aspects of the project have evolved.

As a refresher, this project will be a rectilinear pool measuring 47 feet by 9 feet designed for lap swimming. It will also have a planted wetlands area measuring 27 feet by 3.5 feet. The pool will have a swimming area of 417 square feet and the pond area will be 95 square feet. The pool will be filtered with a 12 tube BF4, set in the corner of the pool.

Since our last update the pool rough plumbing has been completed and the pool has been backfilled. The floor has been put in and this past week we were onsite to cut in and install three skimmerklappes and make the final penetration’s into the BF4 vault and wetlands area. The skimmerklappes will feed the water for both the filter vault and the wetlands area. The next steps will be to begin welding the poolhide.

As always, we look forward to updating you on this project as it progresses.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 4/3/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

Is This the Year You Go Natural? 

More and more people are thinking about natural pools. And if you have clients looking at the benefits, here is a quick article you can send their way to help them compare.

Comparing Natural Pools to Traditional Pools

If you’ve been rethinking your backyard pool, this may be the year to go natural. Natural swimming pools are gaining attention as a healthier, more eco-friendly alternative to traditional chlorinated pools, but how do they really compare?

Water Quality & Health

Traditional pools rely on chlorine and other chemicals to keep water clear, which can irritate skin, eyes, and hair. Natural swimming pools use biological filtration, plants, gravel, and beneficial microorganisms to clean the water naturally, creating a gentler swimming experience with no chemical smell.

Maintenance & Long-Term Costs

Conventional pools often require frequent chemical balancing, shock treatments, and ongoing supply costs. Natural pools shift the work toward ecosystem care: managing plants, debris, and circulation. While the upfront investment can be comparable or slightly higher, long-term costs are often lower due to reduced chemical and energy use.

Environmental Impact

Traditional pools consume chemicals, water, and energy. Natural pools are designed to work with nature, supporting biodiversity, reducing chemical runoff, and often using less water over time. Many owners value the sustainability as much as the swim.

Aesthetics & Experience

A standard pool offers a familiar, uniform look. A natural swimming pool blends into the landscape, resembling a pond or alpine lake. It can attract birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects, turning your pool into a living feature, not just a utility.

Seasonal Living

Traditional pools are usually “closed” outside of summer. Natural pools remain visually appealing year-round, evolving with the seasons and becoming part of the garden even when not in use.

If you’re looking for a pool that prioritizes health, sustainability, and a deeper connection to nature, this could be the year you go natural.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 3/20/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

Building Outside the Lines Natural Pool Episode Makes a Splash — And It’s Still Available to Stream
Last month’s Season 3 finale of Building Outside the Lines (BOTL) featuring a stunning BioNova® Natural Pool has proven to be a major success. Since its February 17 premiere, the episode has generated strong interest from homeowners, designers, and builders eager to learn more about chemical-free swimming and sustainable outdoor living.

The episode follows hosts Cappie and Alex as they collaborate with BioNova® Natural Pools and BioNova® dealer Jesse Dutra to construct a breathtaking natural swimming pool that blends innovative engineering with organic landscape design. Viewers were taken behind the scenes of the project, from the strategic excavation separating the swimming area and biofilm filtration system, to the installation of sustainable filtration technology and the finishing touches such as handcrafted boulder walls and natural landscape elements.

The response from viewers has been overwhelmingly positive. Many people have discovered, often for the first time, how natural swimming pools function without chlorine or harsh chemicals, relying instead on biological filtration and thoughtful hydraulic design. As interest in healthier, environmentally responsible backyard spaces continues to grow, this episode has helped spotlight the role natural pools can play in the future of residential landscape design.

The success of the episode has also sparked new conversations across the pool and landscape industries about sustainable alternatives to traditional swimming pools. BioNova® Natural Pools continues to lead this movement by combining proven European natural pool technology with modern engineering and design expertise in North America.

Still Haven’t Seen the Episode? You Can Still Stream It
If you missed the original broadcast, the good news is that the episode is still widely available to stream or watch on demand.

Viewers can find Building Outside the Lines on:

• HBO Max:  Stream full episodes with a subscription.
• Discovery+:  Available through the Discovery+ service or its Amazon Channel add-on. 
• Philo:  Episodes are included with a Philo subscription. 
• YouTube TV:  Available to stream through this live TV streaming service. 
• Hulu:  Building Outside the Lines is available to watch on Hulu’s streaming service. 

Buy or Rent
If you prefer just this episode (or to own it permanently), you can buy or rent individual episodes through:

• Amazon Video / Prime Video
• Apple TV Store
• Fandango at Home

If you haven’t watched it yet, now is the perfect time to stream the episode and experience how BioNova® Natural Pools are redefining the modern swimming pool.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 3/13/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

Momentum Builds for Chlorine-Free Pools in South Dakota

A promising shift toward natural water systems is underway in the Midwest. According to reporting by South Dakota Searchlight, lawmakers have advanced legislation that could allow small lodges to operate swimming pools without chlorine.

Click here to read the “South Dakota Spotlight” Article

The South Dakota House of Representatives and the Senate have recently approved House Bill 1299, a measure that would permit lodging facilities with 15 or fewer rooms to install biofilter-based pool systems. These systems use natural biological processes, including beneficial bacteria and plant-based filtration, to maintain clean, clear water without relying on traditional chemical disinfectants.

If enacted, the bill would require participating lodges to obtain annual permits through the South Dakota Department of Health and meet established safety and water-quality standards. Supporters say the measure offers a responsible pathway to explore innovative, lower-chemical alternatives while maintaining public health protections.

Natural swimming systems have long been popular in Europe and are steadily gaining traction across the United States. This legislative step signals growing recognition that biological filtration can be both safe and sustainable — particularly for smaller hospitality settings looking to offer a distinctive, eco-conscious guest experience.

BioNova® Natural Pools have been at the forefront of this movement for years. While legislation is just beginning to open doors in some states, BioNova® has already designed and built advanced biological filtration systems across North America. Our expertise in regeneration zones, hydraulics, and engineered biofiltration positions us as a trusted partner for hospitality properties looking to lead, not follow, this change.

For advocates of natural pools, this development represents more than policy change, it reflects a broader shift in how communities think about water, wellness, and sustainability.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 3/6/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

Another Webinar Success and New LA CES Courses Added!BioNova® Natural Pools is pleased to announce the successful completion of another LA CES approved webinar, Introduction to Natural Swimming Pools: Sustainable Design Principles and Biological Filtration (Course #101), held live this past Wednesday, February 25, 2026. 

The webinar was well attended with over 110 registrants which brought together landscape architects and design professionals. Attendees gained practical insights into how natural pools promote public health, environmental stewardship, and biodiversity, while offering clients a beautiful, resilient alternative to traditional chlorinated pools. The strong engagement and thoughtful questions throughout the webinar highlighted a growing interest in nature-based solutions within the landscape architecture community.

In addition, attendees were awarded 2.0 Professional Development Hours (PDH) under the Landscape Architecture Continuing Education System which also covered Heath, Safety, and Welfare (HSW).

If you missed our Introduction to Natural Swimming Pools: Sustainable Design Principles and Biological Filtration webinar, there’s still time to attend. BioNova® Natural Pools is offering two additional live online sessions of this same LA CES–approved course on March 24 and April 14, both at 3:00 PM EST. Please click here to register.

PLUS A NEW LA CES COURSE:

NSP 201: Overview of Regeneration Zones, Plants, Hydraulics & Costs

Course NSP 201 – Live Online
 Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 3:00 PM EST
2 Professional Development Hours (PDH)
Heath, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) Eligible

NSP 201 provides a comprehensive introduction to the essential components that make natural swimming pools function efficiently and beautifully. This course explores the science and design principles behind regeneration zones, aquatic plant selection, hydraulic systems, and project cost considerations. Highly encouraged to take NSP 101 as a prerequisite. 

Learning Objectives:

• Understanding aquatic and marginal plant selection for water clarity and ecosystem balance
• Fundamentals of hydraulic design, including circulation and oxygenation principles
• How hydraulics impact overall system performance and water quality
• Key budgeting considerations for natural swimming pool projects
• Review of installation costs, maintenance requirements, and lifecycle value
• Foundational knowledge for discussing, designing, and estimating natural swimming pool projects

Instructor: Allen Schnaak

Register Now! (Open to all): Spots are limited, secure yours today! 

We thank everyone who joined us and helped make this course a success.

Stay Safe and Healthy.

We hope you all continue to stay healthy during these trying times and wish all of our BioNova® Dealers our best to you and your families.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

As always, we encourage you to contact us and share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with BioNova®. We are available to assist you in any way we can. Feel free to email me directly with photos, project updates, testimonials, etc., and we’ll include them in an upcoming Newsletter.

Respectfully,

Ryan Harmer
BioNova® Natural Pools
ryan@bionovanaturalpools.com
609-318-4707

The post BioNova Weekly News – 2/27/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.