NSP Regulatory News Archives - BioNova®

BioNova Weekly News – 5/8/2026

Kris Heiberg — Mon, 11 May 2026 20:36:10 +0000

Dear friends,

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…

Tiny Helpers, Big Impact: How Diatoms Keep Natural Swimming Pools Clean

Its the yearly refresher on diatoms. We are now deep into spring and the pool startup season. And just as their name implies, there are a lot of natural factors that go into the startup of a NSP. When it comes to keeping a natural swimming pool crystal clear and eco-friendly, you might imagine plants doing the heavy lifting, but let’s remember our unsung hero’s quietly working below the surface, diatoms. I know we have discussed their importance before but a little refresher is always nice this time of year to revitalize our knowledge of their importance.

What Are Diatoms?

Diatoms are single-celled algae encased in beautiful, glass-like silica shells. These microscopic algae are among the oldest and most efficient water purifiers on earth. In natural swimming pools, they play a vital role in maintaining water clarity, balancing nutrients, and supporting the entire aquatic ecosystem. They float freely in water or attach to surfaces, forming a biofilm that acts like nature’s cleaning cloth. Unlike harmful algae that cloud your pool, diatoms are beneficial microorganisms that thrive in clean, oxygenated environments, like those created in well-maintained natural pools.

How Diatoms Help Your Pool

1. Natural Water Filtration

Diatoms absorb nutrients like nitrates and phosphates—key ingredients that feed harmful algae. By removing these from the water, diatoms help prevent green algae blooms and keep water beautifully clear.

2. Oxygen Production

Through photosynthesis, diatoms release oxygen into the water, which supports a healthy aquatic environment and benefits other helpful organisms, including bacteria and aquatic plants.

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.

This image shows how diatoms help to increase oxygen, create a healthier ecosystem, and eliminate harmful bacteria and algae.

A microscopic view of a diatom circle with 250+ diatom shells. This diatom circle has a diameter of 2mm long.

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.

Stay Safe!

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®.

BioNova Weekly News – 5/1/2026

Kris Heiberg — Mon, 04 May 2026 19:00:46 +0000

Dear friends,

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…

From Green to Clean: How a Natural Pool Clears Up in Just One Week

When you first open up a natural swimming pool for the season, it can be disheartening to see murky green water, algae buildup, and a layer of organic debris on the bottom. But before you consider draining it or reaching for chemical treatments, know this: a natural pool can go from dirty and green to crystal clear in just a week, simply through regular vacuuming and the incredible efficiency of natural filtration.

Here’s how the transformation happens, and why it’s easier than you might think.

Day 1: Starting Up – A Green Beginning

With any pool, including our Princeton site, sitting idle over the winter or an extended break, organic matter like leaves, pollen, algae spores, and dust collect in the water. As temperatures rise and sunlight increases, algae begin to thrive, turning the water green and cloudy.

This combination can turn a pool into a swamp. But underneath the natural filtration system, within the gravel beds and aquatic plants, the beneficial bacteria are still intact, just waiting to be reactivated.

Days 2–3: Vacuuming Away the Problem

The biggest contributor to murky water in a natural pool is nutrient buildup. Decomposing plant matter and algae feeding off nitrogen and phosphorus. The fastest way to start clearing the water is by vacuuming the bottom of the pool daily.

Using a manual or robotic vacuum, remove as much of the organic sludge as possible. This immediately reduces the nutrient load, robbing algae of what it needs to survive. It also improves water circulation and light penetration, which benefits the plants and microbes in the filtration zone.

After just a day or two of vacuuming, you’ll likely notice:

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.

At opening of the Princeton pool the water was green and swampy, and the floor was covered in decaying organic material.

First step was to get the system running and the water moving through the biofilter.

Next was to vacuum and after a day the water was already clearing.

One week later with just a few more vacuuming sessions and the power of natural the pool is crystal clear.

Even with some remaining organic material at the bottom and a lot of pollen and pine needles floating on the surface, the water is crystal clear down to the bottom of the deep end.

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.

Stay safe.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

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

BioNova Weekly News – 4/24/2026

Kris Heiberg — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:44:27 +0000

Dear friends,

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!

The Sabino Canyon pool under construction utilizing a fiberglass shell.

The completed pool with 5 tube BF4 looks amazing with its raised travertine deck.

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.

Stay safe.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

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

BioNova Weekly News – 4/17/2026

Kris Heiberg — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:50:49 +0000

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.

At the time of opening this pond you can see the water was stagnant and brown. After just a few days of turning on the circulation the water has cleared.

Mosquito larvae was present in the stagnant brown water and the pond smelled bad. Once circulation began the pond is clear, smells good, and has zero mosquitoes.

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.

Stay safe.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

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

BioNova Weekly News – 4/10/2026

Kris Heiberg — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 18:18:36 +0000

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.

Spring is a great time to backwash and clean up the BF4. Clean the inserts and remove all debris.

Bubble and backwash the BF4. Get all that ammonia filled water out. Look what was coming out of this BF4. You don’t want this nutrient rich water in the pool.

Don’t forget your nitrogen cycle.

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.

Stay Safe

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

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

BioNova Weekly News – 3/6/2026

Kris Heiberg — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:22:55 +0000

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.

Rep. Nicole Uhre-Balk, right, has a bill to authorize natural pools for small lodging establishments.

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.

Stay safe.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

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

BioNova Weekly News – 2/27/2026

Kris Heiberg — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:48:45 +0000

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.

Stay safe.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

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

BioNova Weekly News – 2/20/2026

Kris Heiberg — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:33:09 +0000

New NSP Project in Delta, Colorado

Our BioNova® team is proud to announce another new NSP project, this time in Delta, Colorado.

A stunning new unique NSP is currently under construction blending modern engineering with the rugged beauty of the region’s native landscape. Designed by BioNova® Natural Pools, this custom project showcases how thoughtful design can harmonize with the land rather than compete with it.

Measuring at its longest of approximately 34 feet long and 14 feet 5 inches at it widest wide, the pool is being carefully excavated directly into Colorado’s natural sandstone terrain. Rather than importing materials that would contrast with the site, the construction team is embracing the existing geology as a defining design feature.

The excavation process reveals the warm tones and textures of the native sandstone, creating a foundation that feels organic and grounded. To ensure structural integrity and long-term durability, the pool shell will be formed in concrete and then stained to mirror the surrounding natural rock. The result will be a seamless visual transition between the built structure and the landscape itself.

The pool will be filtered using a 15-tube BF4 biological filter, housed inside a precast 7’ x 10’ x 5’ vault. Enhancing both function and beauty, the design also incorporates a small stream feature that will gently flow into a dedicated wading/children’s pool. This cascading element adds movement, sound, and visual interest while contributing to water circulation throughout the system.

We are very excited about this project and as always, we look forward to updating you on this project as it progresses.

The NSP will be approximately 34 feet long by 14 feet 5 inches filtered with a 15 tube BF4.

The design also incorporates a small stream feature that will gently flow into a dedicated wading/children’s pool.

The pool is being carefully excavated directly into Colorado’s natural sandstone terrain.

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.

Stay safe.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

The post BioNova Weekly News – 2/20/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

BioNova Weekly News – 2/6/2026

Kris Heiberg — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 20:54:10 +0000

Webinar Success: Introduction to Natural Swimming Pools

BioNova® Natural Pools is pleased to announce the successful completion of our LA CES approved webinar, Introduction to Natural Swimming Pools: Sustainable Design Principles and Biological Filtration (Course #101), held live on January 29, 2026.

The webinar was well attended with over 80 registrants which brought together landscape architects and design professionals eager to explore chemical-free swimming solutions rooted in ecology and sustainability. Led by instructor Allen Schnaak, the course introduced participants to the fundamentals of biological filtration, regeneration zones, and smart zoning strategies that allow natural swimming pools to integrate seamlessly into the landscape.

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 February 25 and March 24, both at 3:00 PM EST. Please click here to register.

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.

Stay safe.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

The post BioNova Weekly News – 2/6/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

BioNova Weekly News – 1/30/2026

Kris Heiberg — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 20:49:01 +0000

New Research Spotlights the Superior Sustainability of Natural Swimming Pools

In a recent thesis from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), student Ern? Tóth-Pál-Pál dives into a comparative analysis of natural swimming pools (NSPs) versus conventional chlorinated swimming pools (CSPs) in Hungary and Sweden. Titled “Water is Life: A Comparative Sustainability Analyses of Natural and Conventional Chlorinated Swimming Pools in Hungary and Sweden”, the study underscores what we’ve long known at BioNova: NSPs are a game-changer for eco-friendly aquatic design.

Tóth-Pál-Pál’s research, based on interviews with experts, site visits to real-world installations, and questionnaires from both countries, reveals that NSPs outperform CSPs across all three pillars of sustainability: economic, environmental, and social. By relying on natural processes like biological filtration and aquatic plants for water clarity, NSPs eliminate the need for chemicals, resulting in healthier water, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced biodiversity. The findings show NSPs are not only more sustainable but also promote better human health by minimizing chemical exposure.

Interestingly, the study highlights cultural differences: Hungarians prioritize economic and social factors (like affordability and community benefits) when choosing pools, while Swedes lean toward environmental considerations. Despite their advantages, NSPs remain relatively unknown in both nations, but their popularity is surging, opening doors for innovative projects and business opportunities.

At BioNova® Natural Pools, this research aligns perfectly with our mission to create chemical-free, nature-inspired swimming experiences. We’ve been leading the charge in North America since 2008, and studies like this validate the global shift toward sustainable waterscapes.

Want to learn more, contact us to discuss how a BioNova® NSP could transform your backyard. Stay tuned for more updates in next week’s newsletter!

NSPs are more sustainable and promote better human health by minimizing chemical exposure.

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.

Stay safe.

Questions, Concerns, Thoughts

Respectfully,

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

The post BioNova Weekly News – 1/30/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.