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…

Celebrate Independence from Chlorine This Fourth of July

250 years ago the founding fathers didn’t have chlorine and you don’t need it either. For many families, the Fourth of July means backyard barbecues, pool parties, fireworks, and making memories with friends and family. But for many traditional pool owners, the holiday weekend starts with something a little less exciting, testing water, adding chemicals, balancing pH, shocking the pool, and making one last trip to the pool store.

Natural pool owners have a different kind of Independence Day.

Instead of spending the morning measuring chlorine levels and worrying about whether the water is ready for guests, they’re setting out lawn chairs, filling coolers with ice, firing up the grill, and getting ready to enjoy the weekend. Their pool is being maintained by something much more remarkable than a collection of chemical bottles, a living biological filtration system.

Inside every BioNova Natural Pool, billions of beneficial microorganisms are continuously at work. These naturally occurring microbes colonize the biofilm filter, where they break down organic matter and help keep the water clean and clear without relying on chlorine or other harsh chemicals. And during the warm days of midsummer, this biological ecosystem is operating at peak performance.

That means the hottest part of the summer is often when a natural pool looks its best. Warm temperatures encourage healthy biological activity, creating exceptionally clear, inviting water while maintaining a balanced aquatic ecosystem.

Of course, every pool benefits from a little attention. Skimming leaves, emptying skimmer baskets, and performing routine equipment checks are all part of good pool care. But instead of constantly adjusting water chemistry, natural pool owners can spend more of their holiday doing what pools are meant for, swimming, relaxing, and enjoying time with the people who matter most.

This Fourth of July, celebrate more than our nation’s independence. Celebrate the freedom that comes from leaving behind weekly chemical routines and embracing a healthier, more natural way to swim.

From all of us at BioNova® Natural Pools, we wish you a safe, relaxing, and unforgettable Independence Day. Happy Fourth of July!

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 – 7/3/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

One of the most rewarding parts of building a natural swimming pool is seeing how it performs years after completion. Recently, we had the opportunity to check in on a BioNova® Natural Pool that was completed almost two years ago, and the results were impressive.

This project in Haddonfield, NJ, which is just 10 miles outside of Philadelphia, was designed closely with the home owner to build a pool that is natural in shape and form and matches and blends well with the existing landscaping. The pool is design to be a 21’x42’ freeform pool with a surface area of approximately 806 square feet. The shallow end is 4 feet deep and the deep end is 6 feet.

The pool is filtered with a 18 tube BF4. Part of the client’s request was to have a curved BF4 vault that followed the contours of the pool so a curved vault was built off the deep end and feed water through two SkimmerKlappes.

The water remains crystal clear, the biological filtration system is performing exactly as designed, and the pool continues to provide a beautiful, chemical-free swimming experience. Even into its second full season of use, the ecosystem has matured beautifully, requiring only routine maintenance while delivering exceptional water quality.

Most importantly, the homeowners couldn’t be happier. They continue to enjoy swimming in naturally filtered water and appreciate how seamlessly the pool blends into their landscape. Their enthusiasm serves as a great reminder that natural pools aren’t just a sustainable alternative to traditional pools, they’re a long-term investment in healthier, more enjoyable outdoor living.

Seeing a project thrive years after installation is a testament to the effectiveness of natural pool design and the lasting value it brings to homeowners.

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 – 6/19/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

If you or your clients have 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 – 6/12/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

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 separation gravel has been added to both the BF4 vault and the the wetlands area. The hardscape around the pool has also begun to go down and looks great. They past week we were on site to install the two pumps and sand filter and complete the final plumbing connections. Once electrical connections are made to the equipment, this pool will be ready for water and startup. 

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 6/5/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

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®.

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®.

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®.

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®.