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…

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 separation walls were installed in the regeneration zone. Then the PoolHide liner was installed by our master welder. The client choose a light gray which will look amazing once the pool is filled. This past week, geotextile was laid into the both the regeneration zone and BF4 vault to protect the liner from the gravel. Then the 12 tube BF4 was installed as well as the under gravel plumbing for the regeneration zone. Next steps will be equipment installation and final plumbing.

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 – 5/15/2026 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®.

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®.

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.

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 – 2/20/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

TV Show, Building Outside the Lines, Showcases a Stunning Natural Swimming Pool by BioNova®

Get ready for a fresh splash of innovation and eco-design on the next episode of Building Outside the Lines! In season 3 finale, airing February 17, 2026, hosts Cappie and Alex take on a breathtaking build: a luxury natural swimming pool that blends sustainable engineering, organic aesthetics, and year-round enjoyment. 

This isn’t your ordinary backyard pool. Instead of relying on harsh chemicals like chlorine, this pool is crafted with nature at the forefront, designed and constructed using principles from BioNova® Natural Pools and BioNova® Dealer Jesse Dutra. 

Behind the Build
On the episode, Cappie and Alex collaborate with BioNova’s design philosophy and dealer Jesse Dutra, showing how eco-centric engineering and creative landscaping come together to craft an all-season natural oasis. Viewers will see:

• Strategic excavation and layout of swimming vs. biofilm filter
• Installation of sustainable filtration systems
• Aesthetic finishes like handmade boulder walls and landscape features 

This project isn’t just about swimming, it’s a centerpiece that invites friends and family to gather, relax, and connect with nature in your own backyard.

Why It Matters
Natural swimming pools, especially those built with BioNova’s certified systems, are gaining attention as homeowners look for healthier, greener alternatives to traditional pools. They offer:

• Zero chemical use and a more skin-friendly swim
• Beautiful integration with outdoor landscapes
• Sustainable operation using biological processes
• Potential year-round enjoyment with thoughtful design 

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a DIY lover, or someone dreaming of an eco-friendly backyard retreat, this episode delivers inspiration and insight into what’s possible when architecture, nature, and craftsmanship come together.

Don’t miss the Season 3 finale of Building Outside the Lines — a journey into sustainable pool design that will make you rethink what a backyard oasis can be!

How to Watch or Stream the Episode

Whether you like traditional TV or streaming on demand, here are the ways you can catch the latest episode:

Live TV & On-Demand

• Magnolia Network:  The show airs on Magnolia’s TV channel as part of its regular schedule premiering on February 17 at 8pm EST
• Spectrum On Demand:  Season 3 episodes, including this new one, may be available to watch at your convenience through Spectrum’s on-demand library. 

Streaming Services

You can stream Building Outside the Lines, including this new natural pool build, on several popular streaming platforms in the U.S.: 

• 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

These platforms let you purchase in HD or SD without a subscription. 

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 – 2/13/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

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!

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 – 1/30/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

What Not to Do in Winter That Can Cause Spring Problems in a Natural Swimming Pool

Winter may feel like a quiet season for your natural swimming pool, but certain missteps during these colder months can lead to murky water, stressed plants, and extra work once spring arrives. Avoiding these common winter mistakes will help ensure a smooth, healthy transition into swimming season.

Don’t drain or drastically lower the water level.
Lowering water exposes liner edges, plant roots, and beneficial organisms to freezing temperatures. This can damage the system and destabilize the biological balance your pool relies on.

Don’t remove all organic material.
While heavy debris should be cleared, aggressively stripping leaves, sediment, or plant matter can remove beneficial bacteria that help restart filtration in spring. A balanced ecosystem needs some biological presence through winter.

Don’t shut down circulation too early (or incorrectly).
In milder climates, turning off circulation prematurely can allow water to stagnate. In colder regions, improper shutdown can damage pumps or pipes. Always follow climate-appropriate winterization practices.

Don’t cut back aquatic plants too aggressively.
Over-pruning can weaken plants that play a critical role in filtration. Leaving some growth protects roots and supports the pool’s ecosystem as temperatures rise.

Don’t ignore the pool entirely.
Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. Occasional winter checks help catch ice damage, excessive debris buildup, or equipment issues before they turn into major spring problems.

Don’t add chemicals “just in case.”
Natural pools depend on biological filtration, not chemicals. Adding treatments during winter can disrupt the ecosystem and delay water clarity in spring.

By letting your natural swimming pool rest, without overcorrecting or neglecting it, you preserve its balance and set the stage for clearer water, healthier plants, and less maintenance when warmer weather returns.

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 – 1/16/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

How Aquatic Plants Survive Winter in a Natural Swimming Pool

As temperatures drop, the regeneration zone of a natural swimming pool (NSP) undergoes a quiet yet remarkable transformation. While swimmers and pollinators retreat for the season, aquatic plants continue an intricate ecological cycle geared toward survival. Understanding what happens beneath the surface in winter helps pool owners better support plant resilience, maintain water quality, and ensure a strong ecological rebound in spring.

Dormancy: Nature’s Winter Strategy

Many aquatic plants in an NSP enter a state of dormancy triggered by decreasing daylight and cooler water temperatures. Dormancy conserves energy and slows physiological processes. Dormancy can look like:

• Foliage yellowing and dieback: Emergent plants like cattails and reeds lose above-water growth.
• Slowed photosynthesis: Submerged plants reduce oxygen production and nutrient uptake.
• Energy reallocation: Plants shift resources to roots, rhizomes, and tubers.

This phase is essential, without it, plants would expend too much energy trying to grow during inhospitable conditions, weakening their long-term health.

Root Health: The Hidden Engine of Plant Survival
While the surface appears lifeless, the root systems remain very active in their own subtle way.

Why roots matter in winter

• Insulation: Soil, gravel, and water provide thermal protection, buffering roots from freezing.
• Energy storage: Rhizomes and tubers act like batteries, storing carbohydrates to fuel spring regrowth.
• Microbial partnerships: Beneficial bacteria continue working within the plant’s root zone (the rhizosphere), breaking down organic matter at a slower pace and supporting nutrient balance.

Maintaining robust root systems ensures plants emerge stronger when temperatures rise.

Spring Rebound: Reawakening the Regeneration Zone
As daylight increases and water warms, aquatic plants shift from dormancy into rapid growth.

What triggers the rebound?

• Longer daylight hours restart photosynthesis at higher intensity.
• Rising water temperatures stimulate metabolic activity.
• Stored energy reserves drive the first flush of new shoots.

Healthy aquatic plants will:

• Produce early-season oxygen
• Absorb nutrients before algae can take advantage
• Stabilize the regeneration zone
• Support wildlife returning to the pool’s ecosystem

This spring resurgence is a key part of how NSPs reestablish biological balance each year.

How to Support Plant Resilience Through Winter
The best winter plant care in a natural swimming pool is low-intervention, but intentional decisions strengthen the system.

1. Keep the Regeneration Zone Undisturbed: Avoid stirring up gravel or disturbing roots during late fall and winter. Even dormant plants remain sensitive to disruption.

2. Maintain Proper Water Levels: Consistent water depth protects root systems from temperature fluctuations and ice damage.

3. Avoid Feeding the System Excess Nutrients: As microbial activity slows, the pool is more vulnerable to nutrient spikes. Keep leaves and external organic debris out of the water.

4. Choose Hardy, Climate-Appropriate Species: Native and cold-tolerant aquatic plants, such as hardy water lilies, pickerelweed, cattail, iris, and sedges, naturally withstand seasonal cycles and recover quickly.

The Winter Ecosystem: Still, but Never Silent
Even though an NSP appears calm and dormant in winter, its ecology is actively preparing for the next cycle of purification, growth, and vitality. Aquatic plants are at the heart of that system, quietly storing energy, protecting their roots, and entering the early stages of spring renewal.

Supporting plant resilience not only enhances water quality and biodiversity but also ensures your natural swimming pool thrives year after year.

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 – 1/9/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.