Before the purified water makes its return to the general swimming area, phosphates in the water also end up serving as plant food. Many natural pools feature stunning waterfalls, particularly if the regeneration area is upstream. The cleansed water tumbles down to the main pool, refreshing the supply of the pond and adding a stunning visual element to the overall design.
The water treated in NSPs is similar to health standards in recreational waters (e.g. lakes, beaches, etc.). In fact, this process of regeneration and purification closely mirrors what actually takes place in natural bodies of water. However, to maintain similar health standards to what one would find in a public beach or swimming area, it is often recommended to install an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system. Although it may not be necessary to operate for the entire season, it provides peace of mind that any harmful anaerobic pathogens will be kept in check, especially if waterfowl frequent the pond.
This process is repeated, with the average NSP recycling its water supply up to four times each day. Just like a traditional pool, the treatment frequency can be adjusted based on the bather load. This is one reason why NSPs are an intriguing option for families of all sizes and could even give municipal authorities alternatives for their public facilities.
While the treatment mechanisms are downright fascinating, the natural pool’s impact on its surroundings is one of the main reasons many people are embracing this new trend. Without chlorine in the mix, NSPs do not pose any risk to the ground around them.
They also do not need to be drained on an annual basis, which keeps sewer systems free of chlorinated water. In turn, the cost to refill the pool come spring is also eliminated. In fact, some homeowners take advantage of their pool year round, transforming the surface into a skating rink during the winter.
Embracing nature’s own cleaning agents also has benefits for swimmers. Pool chemicals can breakdown hair follicles and strip moisture from the skin. Some bathers also experience eye irritation.
Unique challenges of swim ponds
Eschewing the traditional treatment process for a biologically sound alternative does bring unique challenges, however. Just like a naturally occurring body of water attracts wildlife of all shapes and sizes, it is also common for natural pools to serve as the epicentre of activity in a backyard landscape. From dragonflies to amphibians, swimmers will be sharing their pool-time fun with a wide range of different creatures.
In fact, some NSP experts say the average pond serves as a home for thousands of insects and their larvae. The pool acts as a model of biodiversity, a mini reproduction of what takes place in ponds and lakes around the planet. In fact, adding a NSP is often just as beneficial for the environment as it is for the homeowners.
Many families with young children absolutely love the opportunity to see nature in action, all without leaving the comfort of their homes. No longer is the backyard pool simply a place to escape from the hot summer sun; a natural pool becomes an educational wonderland.
Of course, while the flora and fauna are happy to coexist in the same space as the human swimmers, some homeowners might feel differently. Watching frogs jump to-and-fro could prove unpleasant for some, making it imperative for pool professionals to manage client expectations effectively before installation. If the mere idea of encountering an insect during one’s daily plunge sends a shiver up his/her spine, it is safe to say they are not the right customer for a NSP.
The rustic nature of these pools is not the only factor that needs to be taken into consideration. Space is another important component in the equation. While a traditional pool can fit neatly into a compact backyard, a large NSP needs up to 50 per cent more space. This additional square footage is imperative for the regeneration area. In most cases, the natural pool should also feature a smattering of other plantings in the general swimming area, further increasing its overall footprint.
