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…

What is Black Pond Water
If your clients have standalone ponds, a regeneration zone, or a natural pool that is not covered during the colder months it can be quite a difficult task to keep the water looking perfect all year round, especially in months such as autumn where there is a large amount of debris settling in the water. Pond water will naturally shift in color throughout the year; becoming a more yellowish tea-like brown in autumn as tannins leak from fallen leaves and pine needles, and more green in the summer as algae tries to bloom under the sunlight. In most cases this is a harmless seasonal change that will balance out with regular maintenance, good filtration, and stable water conditions. Although this rapid change in color can seem scary to some, in most cases there is little you can do but to let the eco-system catch up and do its work.

However, even though seasonal changes in color can be natural and nothing to worry about, if the water is shifting to a much darker black color, it’s probably time to investigate further. A black color in the pond, whether it’s in the water or on the liner, is often a warning sign of a growing imbalance that needs attention. It’s rare for this type of color to occur rapidly, and it is more commonly the result of a long term problem, such as a lack of aeration causing beneficial bacteria to die and sludge to increase.
A black pond is not a good sign and needs to be investigated and treated before the problem can cause permanent damage to the natural eco-system. As mentioned, the most common cause of black pond water is due to buildup of waste, a lack of aeration, and the growth of slow-digesting anaerobic bacteria. Although cleaning out debris can seem like an unnecessary chore, unless a pond has a strong filtration system and plenty of aeration in place, beneficial bacteria can’t always keep up with demands. To breakdown all the debris, sludge, and gunk in the pond, beneficial bacteria require lots of dissolved oxygen to function efficiently. This type of bacteria, the good bacteria, is aerobic in nature; meaning it utilizes an oxygen-based metabolism.

In seasons with heavy debris fall, such as autumn, or if a client simply doesn’t clean out excess waste regularly, oxygen content will slowly drop and beneficial bacteria will die off. At this point the pond may look brown in color due to the leaking tannin from decaying debris, but will eventually turn black as the muck becomes filled with anaerobic bacteria which slowly break down waste and release potent waste products. This kind of bacteria functions in low oxygen conditions, thriving in the rotting humus which turns dark in appearance as things decay on the pond floor. This cause is often easy to spot as the black color is mostly on the pond floor as thick sludge, with an accompanying smell of sewage and rotten eggs around the water.

Another common cause of black water is damage or leaks to the pond liner or poor grading around the pond or pool which allow sediment and minerals to leech and run into the water. In most cases this problem would bring about a brown or yellow color, but this can also turn black as sediment levels build. If you’re in an area with high levels of mineral content in the soil, especially manganese, this could also be causing the darker shade of water color.

In summary, it is very important to emphasize to clients the importance of fall and spring deep cleanings to limit debris from building up and then breaking down in the water. A clean pond is a happy pond and will help keep a healthy eco system and beautiful water.

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 – 10/16/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

This is also a good time to inspect steps, coping, stonework, skimmers, pumps, and other components for anything that may need attention before winter.

Remember that some biological activity is completely normal. Don’t mistake a healthy biofilm or natural biological growth for something that needs to be scrubbed away.

Don’t Forget the Biofilter

Your biological filtration system continues to play an important role even as temperatures fall.

Avoid the temptation to completely clean or disturb the biological filter simply because you’re preparing for winter. The microorganisms living within the biofilter are an essential part of your natural pool’s filtration system.

Follow your BioNova® system’s recommended seasonal maintenance procedures, including any necessary backwashing or inspection, before temperatures become too cold.

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 – 9/25/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

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 – 9/18/2026 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…

Organic Staining in a Natural Pool: What Should You Do?
If you notice brown, green, or dark discoloration on the floor or walls of your natural swimming pool, your first instinct may be to assume something is wrong. But in a natural pool, staining and discoloration can have several causes—and they don’t necessarily indicate a problem with the system.

Organic staining is often caused by leaves, pollen, tannins, soil, and other natural materials that find their way into the pool and begin to break down. Areas where debris settles, particularly corners and low-flow areas, are more likely to develop discoloration.

Start With the Simple Things

Before reaching for chemicals, start by removing the source of the staining. Remove leaves and other organic debris, then gently brush the affected surfaces. Vacuuming the pool can also help remove the material that has settled on the bottom.

Pay particular attention to areas where circulation may be reduced. Good hydraulics are critical in a natural pool, and dead spots can allow organic material to accumulate and create persistent discoloration.

Is It Really a Stain?

What looks like staining may actually be biofilm or algae. A thin green or brown film on the walls or floor can be part of the natural biological ecosystem.

Try gently brushing the area. If the material releases from the surface, you’re likely dealing with a biological growth or organic deposit rather than a permanent stain.

This is an important distinction because the appropriate response is very different.

Don’t Reach for Chemicals Too Quickly

One of the biggest mistakes a natural pool owner can make is treating every discoloration like a problem that needs to be chemically eliminated.

Natural pools depend on a living biological ecosystem to maintain water quality. Aggressive treatments such as chlorine or other oxidizing chemicals can disrupt that ecosystem and potentially create more problems than they solve.

Instead, focus first on debris removal, circulation, filtration, and maintaining a healthy biological system.

Check Your Water and Your Filtration

If organic staining continues to return, it’s worth looking beyond the surface.

Check that your circulation system is moving water effectively throughout the pool. Examine areas where debris may be collecting, and make sure the biofilter and regeneration zone are functioning as intended.

Water testing can also provide valuable information. Nutrients such as phosphates can contribute to unwanted biological growth, so testing can help determine whether there is an underlying nutrient issue.

Let the Ecosystem Do Its Job

A natural pool isn’t supposed to look and behave exactly like a chemically treated swimming pool. Some biological activity is not only normal, it’s essential.

The goal isn’t necessarily to eliminate every trace of biofilm, organic material, or natural discoloration. The goal is to maintain a balanced ecosystem that keeps the swimming water clean, clear, and healthy.

So, the next time you see a little organic staining, don’t panic. Remove the debris, check your circulation, inspect your filtration, test when appropriate, and give your natural pool’s ecosystem a chance to do what it was designed to do.

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 – 9/11/2026 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…

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®.

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…

Summer Is When Nature Does Its Best Work
As the summer sun heats up, most traditional pool owners know what comes next, more chlorine, more testing, more chemicals, and more maintenance. High temperatures can accelerate algae growth, burn off chlorine, and make keeping the water balanced feel like a full-time job.

For a properly designed natural swimming pool, however, summer tells a very different story. Warm weather is when the biological ecosystem reaches peak performance.

Just as gardens flourish and forests come alive during the summer months, the beneficial microorganisms that keep a natural pool clean become more active as water temperatures rise. These microscopic helpers form healthy biofilms within the biological filtration system, where they continuously break down organic matter and naturally remove nutrients that would otherwise feed algae.

Instead of relying on chemicals to sanitize the water, a natural pool harnesses biology to create a stable, self-sustaining ecosystem. The result is exceptionally clear water that remains inviting throughout the swimming season.

The biological filter works around the clock, quietly supporting millions of beneficial microorganisms that do the hard work naturally. As long as the system is properly designed and maintained, these organisms become increasingly efficient during the warmest months of the year. That’s one of the reasons many natural pool owners notice their water looking its absolute best in midsummer.

Of course, every pool benefits from routine care. Removing leaves and debris before they decompose, maintaining proper circulation, and vacuuming the walls and floors all help support a healthy biological balance. But unlike traditional pools, the goal isn’t to constantly adjust chemistry, it’s to maintain an ecosystem that’s already working for you.

Summer is also when the benefits of a natural swimming pool are most appreciated. Families can enjoy crystal-clear water without the strong smell of chlorine, burning eyes, dry skin, or faded swimsuits. Instead of spending weekends measuring chemicals and chasing water balance, they’re spending time making memories.

Nature has spent millions of years perfecting biological filtration. At BioNova® Natural Pools, we’ve simply learned how to bring those same natural processes into your backyard.

So while the temperatures rise this summer, remember that your natural pool isn’t fighting the heat, it’s thriving in it. The warm weather helps power the living ecosystem that keeps your water clean, clear, and ready for another day of swimming.

That’s the beauty of letting nature do what it does best.

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.

uestions, 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 – 6/26/2026 appeared first on BioNova®.

A new natural swimming pool project is taking shape in Mullica Hill, bringing sustainable luxury and chemical-free swimming to another residential property in the Garden State. Designed around the principles of biological filtration and ecological balance, the new pool will combine modern geometry with the clean, living-water experience that has made natural pools increasingly popular across North America.

The pool itself will measure 20 feet by 44 feet, creating approximately 880 square feet of swimming area. The generous dimensions will provide ample room for recreation, exercise, and relaxation while maintaining the sleek appearance of a contemporary luxury pool. At the heart of the system will be a 20-tube BF4 biofilter

The Mullica Hill project represents another example of how natural swimming pools are evolving beyond rustic pond aesthetics into highly engineered contemporary installations. Modern natural pools can incorporate clean lines, submerged entries, lighting, heating systems, and automated features while still maintaining a chemical-free environment.

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 – 5/22/2026 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®.

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®.

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®.