Natural Swimming Pools

50

description

Uploaded from Google Docs

Transcript of Natural Swimming Pools

Page 1: Natural Swimming Pools
Page 2: Natural Swimming Pools

Natural Swimming

PoolsThe Total Guide

By

Mick Hilleary

Dale Gracy

www.totalhabitat.com

We at Total Habitat have included as much information as possibleinto this book. We find it to be a short, but worthy treatise on thesubject and know of no other books on this subject at the time of

publishing. As much as we wish to include more - every how-to bookis a work in progress and we will publish new editions as time and

information allow. If you find an error in this book,we welcome your comments and corrections.

Please e-mail them to: [email protected] you for your interest in Natural Swimming Pools.

We are obliged to honor Peter Petrich, the pioneering Austrianengineer who was one of the first to attempt to create a water

purification based on plants (founding BioTop in 1984) and KenAndrews, a little known American chemist who created a natural watercleaning system for his pool/pond (much like the one we use) in 1955.

Much is to be done to spread the word aboutNatural Swimming Pools.

We are doing our part and we look forward to more and largerprojects, municipal size pools have been

successfully done in Europe -we need a few bold clients in the USA.

eBookISBN 0-9752731-0-8

Copyright 2003 Total Habitat

Habitat Books5152 N Hillside, Wichita KS 67219

316-644-5848

Page 3: Natural Swimming Pools

ContentsContentsContentsContentsContents

Contents ......................................................3Swimming Naturally .....................................4.................................................................4

City Folk vs Country Folk ...............................5The Big Recipe ..............................................6Natural Water Cleaning .................................7Sizing Pools, Pumps and Filters ................... 14So many Possibilities .................................. 22Planning and Design.................................. 25Planted Filter Plants................................... 28Site Marking and Layout .............................. 30Soil Excavation.......................................... 31Protective Underlayment ............................... 32Liner Installation ...................................... 33Swim Zone Retaining Wall.......................... 34Swim Zone Retaining Wall - Detail .............. 35Planted Filter Details .................................. 36Biofilter Waterfall Details............................ 37Biofilter Waterfall Assembly ......................... 38Pool Birth & Maintenance ........................... 41Products ..................................................... 43

IndexIndexIndexIndexIndex .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 4949494949

TOC

Contents

Swimming Naturally 1

City Folk vs Country Folk 2

The Big Recipe 3

Natural Water Cleaning 4

Sizing Pools, Pumps and Filters 11

So many Possibilities 19

Planning and Design 22

Planted Filter Plants 25

Site Marking and Layout 27

Soil Excavation 28

Protective Underlayment 29

Liner Installation 30

Swim Zone Retaining Wall 31

Swim Zone Retaining Wall - Detail 32

Planted Filter Details 33

Biofilter Waterfall Details 34

Biofilter Waterfall Assembly 35

Pool Birth & Maintenance 38

Products 40

Index 46

Page 4: Natural Swimming Pools

Swimming Naturally

Our Natural Swimming Pools Feature:

• Clean, Clear Water (no mud on the bottom)

• Affordable (about the same cost as a traditional pool to build, but less

ongoing costs – chemicals for traditional pools can run $300.00 – $600.00 a year)

• Low Maintenance (much less than a traditional pool)

• Year Round Beauty• Year Round Fun• Passive Solar Heating (for extended swimming opportunities)

• Water Feature Therapy (which we all can use)

Let’s Go Swimming

Have you ever seen how many pounds of chemicals go into a typicalswimming pool? Have you ever read the warning labels on the chemi-cals used to sterilize typical swimming pools? The basic philosophy be-hind water quality in a typical swimming pool is to kill everything short ofkilling the swimmer. There is another way.

In a natural swimming pool we harness natures’ own processes to pro-duce clean, clear water. If you have ever had the opportunity to swim ina crystal clear lake or stream, then you know the sense of bliss that onlynature can supply. Swimming is much more enjoyable without burningeyes and chemical odor. In Europe they have built hundreds of naturalswimming pools since 1985. Interviews with pool owners have shownoverwhelming satisfaction.

A great place to swim is not the only benefit that a natural swimmingpool provides. It becomes the center piece of your own personal para-dise, your own reflection pool, one you can retreat to when ever youwant. With flowering plants, a waterfall and a few fish, your pool be-comes a beautiful water garden. You can enjoy it all year round. If youare in a cold climate, you can go ice skating. Your natural swimmingpool is far more attractive in the cooler months than a covered swim-ming pool. Realtors have found that houses with well constructed watergardens increase resale value more than houses with traditional swim-ming pools.

A natural swimming pool is a great addition to a holistic life-style. Hu-mans have been enjoying natural water resources for millions of years.With fresh water resources waning in many parts of the world, it is niceto know that you have 20 to 30 thousand gallons handy.

1

Page 5: Natural Swimming Pools

City Folk vs Country Folk

People living in rural areas often have more experience than city dwell-ers swimming in natural water. Swimming holes, lakes and farm pondsare enjoyed world wide. The water may not be perfectly clear, it mayhave fish and other little critters in it and a layer of mud on the bottom,but on a hot summer day it is the most refreshing experience around.Generations enjoy these water resources and continually improve them.Sharing the water with wildlife is a good thing: they stay out of your waywhen you are swimming and it’s a joy to discover the rest of the time.

City folk on the other hand have more experience with chlorinated pools.Public or private swimming pools typically have clear water, white bot-toms, and any wildlife that happens along dies in contact to the water.Sadly, some city folk harbor fears of natural water. To that we say, “Cour-age is having done it before”, so it is up to the rest of us to spread thegood news about swimming naturally. In a well designed natural swim-ming pool, the water is clear (you see what is in it) and it is beautiful.

The goal of this book is to enable you (the home owner or contractor) toembark on a natural swimming pool project and successfully emerge.We believe that in years to come natural swimming pools will be morepopular than traditional pools. The triumph of the natural swimming phi-losophy is built one pool at a time. We are dedicated to giving you thebest information, products and methods to make your project a lastingscenic heirloom.

2

Page 6: Natural Swimming Pools

The Big Recipe

The goal of a Natural Swimming Pool project is to create a balanced,self contained, self cleaning ecosystem. We start with a hole in the groundand add a liner so it holds water very well. We establish a swimmingzone and a filtering zone. We add skimmers, filters, plumbing and awater pump to constantly turn over water through the system. Throw ina UV sterilizer for added security and some means of aeration, add plantsand an army of friendly bacteria to get the system started, allow a littletime for these to establish, and there you have it – go swimming. Youhave the best swimming pond you have ever seen and it is ready foryears of enjoyment.

The Anatomy of a Natural Swimming Pool

Natural water chemistry is very complicated. No two ponds in nature areexactly alike, and the chemistry of every body of water changes con-stantly. The seasons, rain, runoff, debris in the wind and the ponds physi-cal makeup all affect the water quality. Safe, clean natural bodies ofwater change, but fluctuate within an expectable range. This is the goalof our Natural Water Cleaning System. For our Natural Water CleaningSystem (and any system for that matter) to work properly throughout theyear, in diverse conditions, and in many regions of the country, a certainamount of overkill is required. Traditional pools use an overkill of chemi-cal disinfectants to keep the water clean, we use natural processes. Ifyou follow our principles and guide lines you will be successful.

3

Planted Filter Pump & UV Sterilizers

• The pump sucks water from theslotted plastic drain tube under theplanted filter and/or a skimmer andpushes it through a UV sterilizer and tothe waterfall, stream or bottom out flow.

Biofilter Waterfall•Cleans water coming from the skimmervia UV sterilizer

Planted Filter

Slotted Plastic Drain Tile

Bottom In or Out Flow• Stirs up water from the bottom toprevent untreated water.

Plant Filter Medium• A mixture of haydite and river rock.• Provides a bioflter medium for the moving waterand a growth medium for water plants.

Filter Retaining Wall

fig. 3.1 The Anatomy of a Natural Swimming Pool

Swimming Zone

Filter Zone

Page 7: Natural Swimming Pools

Natural Water CleaningSystem Basics

I. Containing WaterWater Tight Liner

II. Moving Water through the SystemPumping & Plumbing

III. FiltrationMechanical FiltrationSkimmerBiological FiltrationPlanted filtersBiofilter Waterfall (Aeration)UV sterilizer

IV. Maintaining Water LevelAuto-fillingOverflow

V. Careful Choice of MaterialsFor thriving plants and to maintain pH and otherpotential variables

VI. Nurturing the Pool into MaturityGrowing a Balanced System

4

Liner and UnderlaymentMaterial

DogCat

Skimmer• Sucks leaves and other floating debris off thesurface of the water.• Water pulled thru skimmer is sent to theBiofilter Waterfall via a UV sterilizer.

Liner Locked In Above MaximumWater Level

Packed sand ledge to supportthe under water retaining walland pier.

fig. 4.1 The Anatomy of a Natural Swimming Pool (part 2)

Page 8: Natural Swimming Pools

I. Containing Water

Water Tight LinersThough you can; dig a hole, pack it with clay, and hope it holds water.We recommend using a more predictable method - water tight liners.Anything you put in the pool should be fish/people safe - without algae-cides or flame retardants. UV light from the sun is the most damagingfactor for a liner, so cover the liner in shallow and dry areas completely(with approved rocks or soil). Always follow the manufacturer’s recom-mendations for installation and seaming. For 20+ years of service use:• Firestone Pondguard EDPM rubber (fig. 5.1), 45 mil or 60 mil, great forsmall to medium size projects, flexible - good choice for sites with pre-dominantly clay soil (handles expansion and contraction), it gets heavyand requires more helpers to install. $.62 Sq Ft - $1.10 Sq Ft dependingon where you buy it and shipping. 20 year manufacturer’s warranty.• Medium Density Polyethylene or Reinforced Polyethylene (fig. 5.2), 20mil, 24 mil, or 30 mil thickness, stiffer material than rubber, great forlarge projects, sizes up to 40,000 Sq Ft available, $.35 Sq Ft - $85 Sq Ftdepending on where you buy it and shipping. 20 year manufacturer’swarranty.

II. Moving Water through the System

Pumping & PlumbingJust like you, a healthy natural pool is a living machine. It has a circula-tory system and the pump(s) are truly the heart of the system (fig. 6.3).Cheap water pumps use lots of electricity and expensive pumps uselittle. Pump efficiency is a critical matter. A 100 dollar pump (which mightonly last a year) could use 1000 dollars of electricity in one year. Like-wise, a 1000 dollar pump could use 100 dollars of power. Both wouldcost 1100 dollars the first year, but the 1000 dollar pump will save con-siderable cash over the life of the pump (and could last 3 - 5 years).We like: W. Lim Wave and Dragon pumps (fig. 6.1), and Money SaverPumps (fig. 6.2).For plumbing we like 2” and 3” flexible PVC tubing, it costs more, but thelabor savings are considerable and it’s ability to resist freeze breakageallows me to sleep well on cold winter nights. We find PVC ball valves tobe affordable and reliable for diverting flow as the system requires.

Figuring Total Head

The higher the pump must push the water, the less water will be pumped.The terms “head” or “lift” are used to indicate the rise, measuring howhigh the water must be pumped for a particular application.

Pumping water through tubing (to a waterfall, for example) adds resis-tance. Allow for friction loss inside the tubing, by adding about one footof head for every 10 feet of horizontal running tube.

Add an allowance for friction loss to the vertical distance (in feet) thatyou will be pumping the water. The vertical distance or lift is measuredfrom the surface of the pool to the top of the waterfall. The resulting sumwill be the “total head” that the pump will be required to pump. You shouldcompare the amount of flow that you require to the flow rate that thepump provides at this specific head.

5

fig. 5.1Pond GuardEDPM Rubber - .045 & .060 Thick - Firestone

fig. 5.2Fiber Reinforced Polyethylene, 20 mil, 24 mil, or 30 milthickness - Sizes up to 200’ x 200’. Bend Tarp Company,Bend, OR

Page 9: Natural Swimming Pools

6

Typical Plumbing System OverviewFeaturing: (but, simplified a bit)• Valve 2/3 of the flow to Planted Filter Pumping Loop and 1/3 of the flowto the Skimmer• Green tubes represent water pulled from the pool• Blue tubes represent water returning to the pool

Example: Figure Head

Vertical distance between pond surface level and the top of the waterfallis 3 feet and you have 20 feet of tubing between the pump and thewaterfall. So, your total head is 5 feet (2 feet for 20’ running horz. + 3’vertical). If you have a bunch of valves and elbows add 2 or 3 more feetto the total head/lift height. Always check with the pump manufacturer ifthere is a doubt about the pump performance at a specific head or pump-ing height.

IV. Maintaining Water Level

Auto-filling

An Auto-fill (fig. 10.1) is an inexpensive way to keep the pool full despitethe constant loss to evaporation (which can be as much as 1” on a hotand windy day). It works just like the float valve in your toilet and it in-stalls into the skimmer or under the dock (we prefer under the dockbecause, on some skimmers, as the filter pad soils the water level dropsbehind it - a float valve installed in this situation will unnecessarily addwater to the pool). Use a hose spigot for the water source and supply itwith buried Black 1/2” poly tube. Attaching a on/off “Y” valve to yourhose spigot allows you to, use the spigot for hoses, and to supply thepool, simultaneously.

fig 6.1 Dragon Pump by W. Lim (very high efficient)

fig 6.2 Variable Output Pump by Money Saver(programmable and very high efficient)

Water Pump

UV Sterilizers(Split supply)

Skimmer

Biofilter Waterfall

Perforated Drain Tile(under the planted filter)

Return to Bottom Flow

Underwater Wall

Vortex Pre-filter (optional)

fig. 6.3 Single Pump Plumbing System Overview

Overflow

Page 10: Natural Swimming Pools

III. Filtration

What are we filtering out of the water?•Larger debris (i.e. leaves, sticks and other things larger than 1/4”).•Small debris (i.e. dust, dirt, hair and other things smaller than 1/4”).•Chemical and biological impurities that affect the water quality and clarity.

Mechanical Filtration - The Skimmer

Large debris (i.e. leaves, sticks and other things larger than 1/4”) areconveniently picked up in the nylon net or basket within the skimmer(fig. 7.1). Emptying this nylon net or basket is the primary maintenancerequirement for the pool owner. Nets/baskets should be checked weeklyand emptied as needed. After a wind storm or in the Autumn (when theleaves are falling) the net may have to be checked more often. Largedebris may also blow into the planted areas and become trapped. A littleof this is no concern, but occasionally the pool owner may have to pluckout clumps of leaves to lessen the impact on the plant filter.

Small debris (i.e. dust, dirt, hair and other things smaller than 1/4”) aretrapped in the filter pad within the skimmer (fig. 7.1) – which also pro-tects the pump. This needs to be checked weekly and cleaned aboutonce a month. The cleaning of the filter pad is easily done with a hoseand takes only a few minutes.

Biological Filtration - Planted Filters & other Biological Filters

Chemical and biological impurities are eaten away by a trillion man armyof beneficial bacteria that reside on surfaces wherever water is moving;mostly in the Biofilter media (fig.7.3), (and/or bead filter media) and theplanted filter media (fig. 7.2). Seeding, establishing and sustaining athriving community of these helpful little beggars is the heart of cleaningwater naturally. These same beneficial bacteria naturally occur in wet-lands, marshes and bogs and are responsible for 90% of the water clean-ing task. Plants help the bacteria thrive in many ways. Plants providehosting spots, free oxygen and digest excess nitrate, carbon monoxideand decaying matter. This bacteria (also known as aerobic bacteria)needs lots of oxygen to thrive. Plants, waterfalls and other aerationschemes are extremely important in any natural water cleaning exer-cise. A hardy community of beneficial bacteria will establish naturally intime. There are three major types of beneficial bacteria involved in thecleaning of water or “nitrification process” (see fig 8.1). Each of the bac-teria types will live where they find the food they need. Though they willoccur naturally over time, we recommend “seeding” starter colonies tospeed up the process.

fig. 7.3Biofilter Waterfall

fig. 7.2Planted Filter with Wood Retaining Wall

fig. 7.1Skimmer

7

Page 11: Natural Swimming Pools

8

Ammonia & Ammonium (unionised form of ammonia)

NH3

NH4

NO2

NO3

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Heterotrophic Bacteria (the workhorse in any waste water system)Using oxygen this fast growing, naturally occuring type of bacteria consumes dissolved and particular organics from animal waste and "oxidize" it into carbon dioxide, ammonia and water.

Dirty water, as it enters the Biological Filter

NitrosomonasThe species of aerobic bacteria whichconvert amonnia to nitrite.

Nitrobacter The species of aerobic bacteria which convert nitrite to nitrate.

Nitrite

NitrateBecomes a harmless form of water plant fertilizer in most pools.

If larger quantities of fish are present, add bags of zeolite into the biofilter to absorb the excess nitrates.

Nitrogen

Hydrogen

Disolved Oxygen

The Nitrification Process

This is a chemical summary of how water is cleaned naturally.

fig. 8.1

A thriving community of beneficial bacteria consume most the nutrients in the water thereby robbing algae ofthe food resources it needs to grow. Having said that, the problem with algae is that it needs so little nutrientsto grow. When a pool is in full sunlight even small amounts of dust or pollen can enable an algae bloom.

Page 12: Natural Swimming Pools

9

There are two major categories of algae:

•Planktonic algae (fig. 9.1) (or plankton algae), which are tiny water bornparticles that color the water green, brown or olive.

•Filamentous algae (fig. 9.2) (also known as string algae) grow up fromthe bottom of ponds.

There are thousands of varieties of algae. The reason for one particularstrain to become the dominant strain in any given pond may be traced tominute changes in water chemistry. The seasons, pH, hardness, nitrate/phosphorus ratio, shade and sunlight all contribute to creating an envi-ronment that favors one species over another. There is a dominant al-gae strain for every possible water condition. In fact, a typical pond mayhost a dozen different dominant strains of algae in any given year andnot repeat those same strains again.

String algae (fig. 9.3) attaches itself to the bottom of the pool in shallowareas and will occur to some extent in any non-chlorinated pool. It canbe controlled to a large extent with a regimen of safe, natural additivessuch as; bacteria and enzyme mixes, barley straw, barley extract, alum(which binds to phosphorous - making it unavailable to algae), and othermiracle cures. Like this one, the “Filamentous Algae Controller”, thisdevice uses electromagnetic induction to destabilize the calcium andcarbonate ions in the water (no chemicals). Amazingly enough, by de-stabilizing calcium ions the growth of filamentous algae is largely re-duced. Note of caution: even the slightest amount of algae can beslippery, so we use Indoor/Outdoor Carpeting (outdoor upholstery fig.9.4) on underwater steps and walkways.

UV Sterilizer

We highly recommend the use of UV Sterilizers (fig. 9.5) to control al-gae and other microbiological organisms. A UV sterilizer will kill anyunwanted coli forms and are very effective at controlling algae. Whenwater born algae is exposed to UV light (in sufficient quantities) algae isunable to reproduce. UV sterilizers are safe and do not add any chemi-cals or residue to the pool. Sterilizers are sized by the number of gallonsthey are able to treat - GPM (gallons per minute). It is a good idea tooversize the UV sterilizer. Sterilizers are rated with their initial bulbstrength and in six months time they could lose up to 40% of their effi-ciency. As a general rule you’ll want to cycle the total volume of poolwater through the sterilizer at least four - five times a day (based on a30,000 gallon pool - smaller pools need more cycles per day).

fig. 9.5 UV Sterilizer

fig. 9.3 String algae

fig. 9.2 String algae

fig 9.1 Plankton Algae

UV Bulb(s)

Flow

fig. 9.4 outdoor upholstery

Page 13: Natural Swimming Pools

Overflow

Because we can get an inch or more of rain in an hour - we must have away to allow the pool to drain away excess water. We often use a simpledrain tube attached in the skimmer or utilize an overflow zone dressedas a dry stream bed. Design of the pool and site conditions all play arole in determining the best way to accomplish this, so see our examplesto get ideas.

V. Careful Choice of Materials

For thriving plants and to maintain pH and other potential variables, al-ways carefully choose any material going into the pool. Concrete andlimestone materials are very alkaline rich (high pH) and can affect thewater quality. High pH values are bad for plants and fish (anything over7.6 pH). We test the effect of every material we place in a pool (fig.10.2). Concrete can be sealed to reduce its affect, but ongoing pH buff-ering may be required.

VI. Nurturing the Pool into Maturity

Growing a Balanced System

A Natural Swimming Pool is a dynamic living machine. The pool’s plantsand biological living parts must grow up to offer their mature contribu-tion. Once the plants and organisms are fully established the systemwill work in a predictable routine (fig. 10.3). For example: until the plantsare grown enough to shade the shallow waters, string algae must becontrolled. We add barley straw pads and/or barley pellets into newlyplanted beds to buy time for the plants to grow. If string algae persists,as a last resort - treat it with AlgaeFix. Test the water for pH, nitrates,phosphorous, temperature and oxygen content. Knowing these quali-ties will help you make the right adjustments through the first year.

fig. 10.1Auto Fill - Float Valve

Float

Water Level

fig. 10.2Testing Various Materials andtheir Affect on Water Quality

fig. 10.3A Mature Growth of Water Plants

10

Page 14: Natural Swimming Pools

Sizing Pools, Pumps andFilters

Sizing the filter systems to the size of the pool can become quite compli-cated and involving so we have simplified things here to make it easy.You can build a great variety of pools using our standard system detailsand know that a clean, balanced pool is achievable.

We use four basic filter types; plant filters, Biofilters (which also createa waterfall for added aeration), fluid bead filters (remote filters), andskimmers. These filter types vary in cost, efficiency and aesthetics.

Planted Filters

Planted filters (fig.11.1) are the least expensive to build into a pool andthey offer the aesthetic benefit of plants. Planted filters are less efficientthan the Biofilter (fig. 11.2) and the fluid bead filter (fig. 11.3) becausethe water doesn’t flow amongst the bio-medium as thoroughly and con-sistently as in the others. But, once they are established, planted filterslook and work great. You want the plants to shade the shallow areas ofthe pool, thereby blocking the ability of algae to grow. We like to utilizeplanted filters whenever possible. A skimmer filter is a great addition tothe system, as it reduces the impact of material going into the biologicalfilters by coarse pre-filtering/straining the water.

Model A, Example A

Here is our least expensive, basic pool design (See fig.12.1).It features:•Large plant filter (almost 360 degree)•Small, but useful pier•Pump and UV Sterilizer•Aeration – supplied by a remote air pump or other means (a must inwarmer climates)

The first thing we want to know is the size of the pool or the number ofgallons. Here is the basic formula:

Calculating Pool Size

Avg. Length (feet) x Avg. Width (feet) x Avg. Depth (feet) = Pool Volume(cubic Feet)Pool Volume (cubic feet) x 7.5 = Total Gallons (approx. – US Gallons)

Model A, Example A

Swimming Zone Avg. Length (22.5 feet) x Avg. Width (18’feet) x Avg. Depth (5.6 feet) =Pool Volume (2268 cubic Feet)Pool Volume (2268 cubic feet) x 7.5 = Total Gallons (17,010 approx. –US Gallons)

11

fig. 11.1 Planted Filter

fig. 11.2 Biofilter Waterfall

fig. 11.3 Fluid Bead Filter

Page 15: Natural Swimming Pools

Plant Filter ZoneAvg. cross-sectional area (7.6 square feet) x Running length (85 feet) =Water in Plant Filter Volume (646 cubic feet) x 7.5 = Plant Filter Gallons(4,845 approx. – US Gallons)Total Pool GallonsPool Gallons (17,010) + Plant Filter Gallons (4,845) = 21,855 Total PoolGallons

Calculating Operative Pond Volume

In order to properly determine the sizes and types of filters and otherequipment, we need to include the effect of your local climate and sunexposure. Check the following list and add any applicable factors to theactual size of your pool to determine the Operative size. We will besizing everything to the resulting operative volume and number of gal-lons.

12

Average L x W

Average Depth

Pumps & UV Sterilizers

Dock

Planted Filter

40’

35’

fig 12.1 Model A

Page 16: Natural Swimming Pools

Operative Pond Volume Factors

• Average water depth is less than 3’ – 6”: add 10 %• Pool is located in full sunshine: add 20 % (partial shade add 15%)• Pool is located in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10 -11 (e.g. Florida): add 35 %• Pool is located in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 8 - 9 (e.g. Dallas, TX): add 20 %• Pool is located in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 5 - 7 (e.g. St. Louis, MO): add 10 %• Pool is located in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 1-4 (e.g. St. Paul, MN): add 0 % (See USA Plant Zone Map-fig. 13.1)

Example - Operative Pond Volume (Model A)

If your actual pool size is 21,855 gallons, and the pool is in full sun, andyou live in zone 9, then your operative size is 40% larger than the actualsize (20% + 20% = 40%), or 21,855 gallons x 1.40 = 30,597 operativegallons.(Fish note: we have allowed for a fish stocking level of 50” of fish per10,000 gallons of water – any fish stocking above this may require largerequipment).

Operational Capacity of the Plant Filter (Model A)

Using our “typical” design you can pump up to 1 GPM (gallon per minute)through every 1 running foot of plant filter. The entire Operative volumeof water needs to cycle through the system at least 4 times per 24 hourperiod (during the growing season). If your Operative number of gallonsis 30,597 gallons (as in the example above) then in 24 hours you needto pump 30,597 gallons x 4 = 122,388 total gallons /24 (hours) = 5099GPH (gallons per hour)/60 (minutes in a hour) = 85 GPM (gallons perminute). So, for a pool this size you need at least 85 running feet of plantfilter for adequate filtering (without the use of other filters).

13

1 2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9 10

10

fig. 13.1USDA Plant Zone Map(Based on Average Minimum Temperatures)

Page 17: Natural Swimming Pools

Model A - Important Note:

Now, for an inexpensive pool we could stop here (without a skimmer/Biofilter waterfall system loop), but we would still have to add means ofaeration and because there is no skimmer, the pool owner would needto net out debris more often.Aeration Options• Skimmer/Biofilter waterfall system loop (which also adds additionalfilter)• Oxygenating Plants (Many)• Windmill air pump• Air pump

Pump & Plumbing (Model A)

•100 GPM, high efficiency pump with filter basket, 3” flexible PVC and 4”slotted plastic drain tube (under the plant filters).•UV Sterilizer(s) capable of delivering at least 10,000 microwatt sec-onds per square centimeters at 100 GPM of flow.

14

fig. 14.1Model B Natural Swimming Pool by Total Habitat

Page 18: Natural Swimming Pools

Model B, Example B

Swimming Zone Avg. Length (28 feet) x Avg. Width (21.5 feet) x Avg. Depth (5.6 feet) =Pool Volume (3371.2 cubic Feet)Pool Volume (3371.2 cubic feet) x 7.5 = Total Gallons (24,696 approx. –US Gallons)Plant Filter ZoneAvg. cross-sectional area (7.6 square feet) x Running length (100 feet)= Water in Plant Filter Volume (760 cubic feet) x 7.5 = Plant Filter Gal-lons (5,700 approx. – US Gallons)Total Pool GallonsPool Gallons (24,696) + Plant Filter Gallons (5,700) = 30,396 Total PoolGallons.

15

45’

40’

Average L x W

Average Depth

Skimmer

Biofilter Waterfall

Pumps & UV Sterilizers

Beach

Dock

Planted Filter

Patio Area

Electrical Feed

Water Supply toAuto-Fill

fig.15.1 Model B (see photo fig.14.1)

B

A A

B

Section AA

Section BB

Page 19: Natural Swimming Pools

16

Calculating Operative Pond Volume (Model B)

In this case the actual pool size is 30,396 gallons. Let’s assume the pool is in full sun, and in zone 7 (See -Operative Pond Volume Factors). The operative size in this example is 30% larger than the actual size (20% +10% = 30%), or 30,396 gallons x 1.30 = 39,515 operative gallons.

Calculating the Filter Needs (Model B)

The entire Operative volume of water needs to cycle through the system at least 4 times per 24 hour period(during the growing season). If your Operative number of gallons is 39,515 gallons (as in the example above)then in 24 hours you need to pump 39,515 gallons x 4 = 158,060 total gallons /24 (hours) = 6586 GPH (gallonsper hour)/60 (minutes in a hour) = 110 GPM (gallons per minute).

Planted FilterWe have 100 running feet of planted filter and it can treat 1 GPM / per linear feet, so that’s 100 GPM (of the 110GPM total).

Biofilter WaterfallWe need to process at least another 10 - 20 GPM and that can easily be done through a 150 gallon BiofilterWaterfall looped with a Skimmer (the skimmer needs at least 40 GPM of flow to function properly, but this extracapacity should be considered beneficial). The Skimmer will reduce debris collection, the Waterfall adds aera-tion, and the Biofilter cleans out additional impurities.

Pumps & Plumbing

Main Pump•150 GPM, high efficiency pump with filter basket, where flow from the planted filter and skimmer are sepa-rately valved to pull 2/3 of the flow thru the Planted Filter loop, and 1/3 of the flow thru the Skimmer loop.•UV Sterilizer(s) capable of delivering at least 10,000 microwatt second per square centimeter at 150GPM of flow.•Planted Filter loop is constructed from 3” flexible PVC and 4” slotted plastic drain tube (under the plant fil-ters).•Skimmer Biofilter Waterfall loop consists of: Skimmer with pre-filter, Biofilter Waterfall (150 Gallon or housing8 cubic feet of bio-media), and 2” flexible PVC.

Page 20: Natural Swimming Pools

17

Model C, Example C

Swimming Zone Avg. Length (29 feet) x Avg. Width (26 feet) x Avg. Depth (5.6 feet) = PoolVolume (4222.4 cubic Feet)Pool Volume (4222.4 cubic feet) x 7.5 = Total Gallons (31,668 Gallons)Plant Filter ZoneAvg. cross-sectional area (7.6 square feet) x Running length (100 feet) =Water in Plant Filter Volume (760 cubic feet) x 7.5 = Plant Filter Gallons(5,700 Gallons)Total Pool GallonsPool Gallons (31,668) + Plant Filter Gallons (5,700) = 37,368 Total Pool Gal-lons

Calculating Operative Pond Volume (Model C)

In this case the actual pool size is 37,368 gallons. Let’s assume the pool is inpartial sun, and in zone 7 (See - Operative Pond Volume Factors). Theoperative size in this example is 35% larger than the actual size (15% + 20%= 35%), or 37,368 gallons x 1.35 = 50,447 operative gallons.

50’

Average L x W

Average Depth

Biofilter Waterfall

Pumps & UV Sterilizers

De

ckin

g

Planted Filter

fig. 17.1 Model C

A A

Section AASkimmer w/bellows

50’

Page 21: Natural Swimming Pools

18

Calculating the Filter Needs (Model C)

The entire Operative volume of water needs to cycle through the systemat least 4 times per 24 hour period (during the growing season). If yourOperative number of gallons is 50,447 gallons then in 24 hours youneed to pump 50,447 gallons x 4 = 201,787 total gallons /24 (hours) =8408 GPH (gallons per hour)/60 (minutes in a hour) = 140 GPM (gallonsper minute).

Planted FilterWe have 100 running feet of planted filter and it can treat 1 GPM / perlinear feet, so that’s 100 GPM (of the 140 GPM total).

Biofilter WaterfallWe need to process another 40 - 60 GPM and that can easily be donethrough a 150 gallon Biofilter Waterfall looped with a Skimmer. TheSkimmer will reduce debris collection, the Waterfall adds aeration, andthe Biofilter cleans out additional impurities.

Pumps & Plumbing

Main Pump•150 GPM, high efficiency pump with filter basket, where flow from theplanted filter and skimmer are separately valved to pull 2/3 of the flowthru the Planted Filter loop, and 1/3 of the flow thru the Skimmer loop.•UV Sterilizer(s) capable of delivering at least 10,000 microwatt secondper square centimeter at 150 GPM of flow.•Planted Filter loop is constructed from 3” flexible PVC and 4” s l o t -ted plastic drain tube (under the plant filters).•Skimmer Biofilter Waterfall loop consists of: Skimmer with pre-filter, Bio-filter Waterfall (150 Gallon or housing 8 cubic feet of bio-media), and 2”flexible PVC.

fig. 18.1 Derby Pool by Total Habitat

Page 22: Natural Swimming Pools

19

So many Possibilities

Applying the same principles we’ve already covered you can create justabout any pool you can imagine. Add streams and towering waterfalls(all the more aeration). The planted filter can be a separate pool (this isoften done in the municipal size natural pools). An infinity edge (wherewater falls over the far edge of the pool and disappears) can make agreat skimmer and adds aeration. Here are a few quick designs:

fig. 19.1 Model B

fig. 19.2 Rocky Old Swimming HoleWilson Pool, Kansas City• A pool does not have to have planted filters.• Adequately sized Biofilter waterfalls, remotefilters or remote marshes can perform thecleaning task.

Page 23: Natural Swimming Pools

20

fig. 20.1 Rocky Old Swimming Hole #2Adams Pool, Newton Kansas

fig. 20.2 Big and LongEakes Pool, Kansas (proposed)

fig. 20.3 Stream to PoolTran Pool, Kansas (proposed)

Page 24: Natural Swimming Pools

21

fig. 21.1 Our Development PoolSherri Pool, Wichita, Kansas(this is where we learned the importance of UVsterilizers)

fig. 21.2 Hot/Cold Tub Anyone?Pattie Pool, Newton, Kansas (proposed)• Hot or cold pool using ozonator cleaning methodunder development.

fig. 21.3 Love waterfalls

Page 25: Natural Swimming Pools

22

Planning and Design

Where and what to build?

The first rule of site development is to improve the ugly parts of your siteand keep the pretty parts (relatively speaking). Having said that, here isa list of other common issues in planning and designing a pool.

Locate for Enjoyment, Natural Pools are a Joy to See and Hear

• See it from your breakfast table or easy chair.• Hear it though your bedroom window, frog choruses in the spring arebeautiful and vary month to month.• A back porch swing is a great way to spend time relaxing. Be preparedfor more wildlife - birds, frogs and turtles like water too.• Have a bathroom/mudroom on the path the kids take to get to and fromthe pool.• Lose that big stretch of lawn - a pool requires less maintenance timeand provides ten times the fun.• Bigger is better. Larger pools are easier to balance than smaller ones- they change more slowly.

Necessary Details

• Water is self leveling, the pool must be contained in a level bowl. Anatural slope may work to your advantage when creating a believablewaterfall.• Don’t allow water to runoff into the pool from uphill (it is to easy forundesirable material -ie. fertilizer- to effect the pool balance) (you cancollect clean rain water and use it to maintain the pool level, despiteevaporation).• When it rains it pours - plan for a downhill slope or drain for the over-flow from rain.• The pool needs water and electricity - where is it coming from? Plan onusing GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) receptacles anywhere nearthe pool.• Any high voltage lines or sewer lines running under your back yard?Call- before-you-dig is a free locating service. 1-800-DIG-SAFE (800-344-7233).• Where is the 3300 cu. ft. of dirt going to go? We use the excavated dirtto make berms for waterfalls and drainage channels.• What are you digging into? Is it solid rock? Is the water table high?These answers could determine whether you build up or dig down.

Page 26: Natural Swimming Pools

More Necessary Details

• Avoid locating to close to trees, roots are tough to dig through and youthreaten the tree.• Too many trees? Water plants need sun. Try to achieve at least 5 hoursof full sun. Too many trees create too many leaves which blow into thepool.• You’ll probably need fencing. See your local building/zoning codes forfencing and other requirements. Sketch your idea and have your localauthorities sign off on it.

How Deep is Deep?

• The more water you have - the more you have to clean. Pumping andfiltering costs grow. Any depth is possible if you have the budget.• We have found that 6.5 feet is a nice depth, you can easily do a shal-low dive and glide around the pool. Eight foot deep is recommended forsouthern climates in order to help keep the water cool.

Plan for Perfection, after the Centerpiece is Done...

• Create wind blocks and privacy with trees or garden walls (gardenwalls are underrated in the USA).• Native grasses and trees are more fun than lawns.• Plant more trees. A little shade and cover help to make a cozy area.• Patios, gazebos, barbecues, furniture and tree houses need to be con-sidered. Envision your next party or family reunion.• During pool construction is a good time to bring in any large boulders,trees or other things that would otherwise tear things up.

Natural Appearance or Formal Appearance

• We like believable nature. We strive to build pools that appear to havebeen there for hundreds of years and the house was just built next to it.• Formal shapes and geometric compositions are fine. If the surround-ing architecture calls for it, do it. But avoid white painted bottoms thatwill only be darkened by the natural underwater patina that living watermakes (a thin layer of algae is a healthy part of a Natural Pool). Plan tomanage slippery surfaces.• Get professional advice. Landscape architects would love to help de-sign a space with a Natural Pool. We, at Total Habitat, offer design con-sultation.

23

Page 27: Natural Swimming Pools

24

Design & Layout

For example let’s presume that you are designing a custom pool basedloosely on our model B version. It includes a dock, swimming zone,waterfall area and an overall perimeter. You could draw ideas using penciland paper and a scaled plan view of the property, or by using hoses,ropes and a stick, draw ideas directly on the property. Though, I havespent years at the drawing table, I find the latter method to be faster andmore informative (at least in the early design phase).

What other activities are the site used for? This is a good time to mapout various zones of activity that will share the site with the pool (e.i.party area, garden area, soccer area, putting green etc.). This is also agood time to locate any obstacles, such as underground utilities or sep-tic tank systems.

Now, starting with the dock, swimming area and perimeter layout a roughshape and step back to examine it. Adjust as necessary and check itfrom every available vantage point. Get other opinions, amazing ideascome from amazing places. Pretend that the pool is complete and playin it a while, now is a great time to discover things you want to add orsubtract from the project.

The waterfall area is a good place to use a large portion of the exca-vated dirt. To help make the waterfall geologically plausible, imply thestratification layers. The waterfall rocks should appear as an outcrop-ping from a larger hill.The rest of the excavated dirt should be used to fix any drainage con-cerns on the site.

Once you are satisfied with the overall layout, take pictures, sketch andmeasure it thoroughly. Converting the idea to paper allows you to planout details and fax it around for bids, permits and feedback.

Draw plan views and cross section views and determine your other equip-ment, electrical and plumbing needs as per our examples.

Note 24.1How Wide is your Liner?Oh, by the way, have you thought about which linertype you are using? EDPM rubber, (FirestonePondguard) is 50 foot wide max (without seaming). Therule we use to size the liner to the pool is:Liner Width = pond width + 2 times pond depth + 4 (forlocking in on both sides).So, 50 foot wide liner will make a 6.5 foot deep pool 33feet wide.

fig. 24.2 Michele Pool by Total Habitat

Page 28: Natural Swimming Pools

25

Planted Filter Plants

Starter Plant List - (always check hardiness for your area)All these plants contribute to a clean, healthy Natural Swimming Pool.Many similar varieties can be substituted. The planted filter is an excel-lent water gardening opportunity for those who want to dive further intoit. Edible, medicinal and a multitude of tropical flowering plants are avail-able to the serious water gardener. For more information visit RobynRhudy’s wonderful web pages at: (http://userpages.umbc.edu/~rrhudy1/plant.htm).

For example models A, B & C: Qty.

Shallow Edge Plants • 0- 6” water depth 20 - 30Start with 1 - 2 gallons of soil mix (soil, pea gravel and peat) per plantpouch.Juncus torreyi, Torry's rushScirpus lacustris, Bullrush, WhiteCarex scoparia, Pointed broom sedgeRudbeckia laciniata, Cutleaf coneflower*Caltha palustris, Marsh marigold*

Shallow Water • 3” - 12” water depth 20 - 30Start with 1 - 2 gallons of soil mix (soil, pea gravel and peat) per plantpouch.Calamagrostis canadensis, Bluejoint reedgrassGlyceria grandis, Giant manna grassSpartina pectinata, Prairie cordgrassLobelia cardinalis, Cardinal flower*Oenothera elata, Riparian primrose*Arrowhead (many varieties)Wild rice

Standing Water • 6” - 18” water depth 20 - 30Start with 1 - 2 gallons of soil mix (soil, pea gravel and peat) per plantpouch.Carex alopecoidea, Foxtail sedgeCarex aquatilis, Water sedgeCarex bebbii, Bebb's sedgeCarex simulata, Slender sedgeScirpus validus, Softstem bulrushDichromena, Star-rush*Typha latifolia, Common cattail

Note 25.1 Plan on the quantities suggested from eachcategory. Feel free to substitute for similar plants basedon availability and personal preference.

Page 29: Natural Swimming Pools

Planted Filter Plants (continued) Qty.

All types of water lilies, iris and lotus 8 - 12Lilies generally need more soil (2 - 4 gallons) and fertilizer tablets.

*Other Flowering wetland plants 8 - 12Water hyssopMarsh MarigoldCow parsnipBluebellsWatercress

Floating and Oxygenating Plants 80 - 150Do not need soil.Water hyacinthBladderwortCoontail/HornwartElodea (perennial)Vallisneria americana (perennial)Lugwigia

26

Page 30: Natural Swimming Pools

Site Marking and Layout

First, be sure the underground utilities have been located and marked.Most areas have a free service such as CALL BEFORE YOU DIG (1-800-DIG-SAFE), or contact your local utility company to have this done.Completing this step will insure a safe start to the project, and give pieceof mind. Also, the position of sprinkler heads or other important ob-stacles (such as septic tanks and lateral lines) should be flagged at thistime (fig. 27.1). Avoiding these obstacles will reduce costly repairs orfuture problems. Be prepared to alter the layout slightly if it will elimi-nate construction headaches.

Now refer to drawings of the project (from planning stage) and startroughing in the lines. A garden hose or rope laid down will do nicelywhen trying out a shape (easily adjusted and measured) (fig. 27.2). Oncesatisfied with a layout, spray painting the line or staking it out will savevaluable reference points for digging fig. 27.3). At this time you shoulddetermine where excess soil may be deposited when excavating (tocreate berms and other design contours), so as to avoid the cost ofhauling away soil. Marking the placement of the pump box, overflow (orskimmer) and Biofilter at this time is a good idea.

If planning to use heavy equipment for digging, this would be a goodtime to reserve or arrange for it (if you haven’t already). The liner, hard-ware, and rocks and other materials should also be on their way. Doingthis before you are ready to start will eliminate costly delays in progress.The goal here is to smoothly create a project by following clear guide-lines with as little wasted effort as possible. There is enough hard workin a project without adding to it.

HELPFUL TOOLS:• rope or garden hose• spray paint (contrasting color to ground)• flags (wire type)• wooden stakes• sledge hammer• nylon string• utility knife

27

fig. 27.1

fig. 27.2

fig. 27.4

fig. 27.3

Page 31: Natural Swimming Pools

Soil Excavation

Now is the time to dig into the project, so double-check to make sure thesite has been properly marked for possible interferences (utilities, septiclines, underground sprinklers, etc.). Rough shaping the pool with anexcavator (sized for the job) and a loader with bucket attachment toaccomplish this phase of the project (fig. 28.4). To avoid hauling awaysoil (an unnecessary cost), distribute the excess material in areas to beplanted creating gentle mounds that help control visual boundaries. Extrasoil may also be used to elevate low spots around the pool, so that thelowest points are at least 9” above the desired water level. Refer to thedrawings established during “planning phase” for excavating the shapeand profile of the pool. Make sure to leave as much of the paintedlayout line as you can, as this becomes a guide line for digging the linerlocking trench around the pool (fig. 28.1).

After excavating the rough shape, it is time to utilize manual shovels fordialing in and cleaning up the contours. The use of manual shovelsallows for an accurate dimension to be achieved. Refer to pool plan forplacement and depth of skimmer, pump box, Biofilter Waterfall, and shelffor the planted filter wall and dig to specifications. Once the desiredshape is created, it is time to compact areas of loose soil to preventshifting. A gas powered tamper or compactor will quickly accomplishthis step, leaving only a few areas that have to be manually compactedwith a long handled tamper. The last step in this phase is to turn thepool perimeter line into the liner locking trench (fig. 28.2). Make sure allareas along this line are at least 9” above water level. Now dig a 12” x12” trench following this line, depositing the soil along the outside edgeto be placed back in the trench when locking the liner in on the nextphase.

HELPFUL TOOLS:• excavator (backhoe)• loader (with bucket)• transit (or laser level)• wheel barrow• shovels (various types)• soil compactor (gas powered)• soil tamper (manual)

28

fig. 28.1

fig. 28.2

fig. 28.3

fig. 28.4

Page 32: Natural Swimming Pools

Protective Underlayment

At this point in the process, concern is given to the surface preparationof the excavated site. Thoroughly check the ground inside the pool areafor sticks or other intrusions that need to be removed, before proceed-ing with underlayment installation.

Underlayment can be one of many different materials, including carpetremnants, carpet pad, or geo-textile fabric (a.k.a. heavy landscape fab-ric). All of these materials share the property of being very slow to de-grade (if at all), although the thicker materials provide improved cush-ioning of the liner. The amount of material needed for the project isdetermined by multiplying the length of the pool (in feet) by the width,and adding 15% to allow for curvature and overlap.

As you begin to piece in the underlayment, be sure to slightly overlapeach piece to insure complete coverage (fig. 29.1). Make sure the ma-terial is extended to at least reach above the waterline, but not to ex-ceed the liner trench (fig. 29.2). Trim and tuck the edge if necessary.The use of landscaping fabric staples is good for controlling the top edge,but keep the use of them above the waterline to avoid creating potentialpunctures or rubbing zones.

Although underlayment is a relatively fast step in construction, theseare important protective steps and attention to detail will translate intocontrol of quality and being able to confidently proceed with the nextphase - Liner Installation. Adhering to a few simple guidelines can clearthe way for a low stress project completion.

HELPFUL TOOLS:• box knife (with carpet cutting blade)• shears• landscaping fabric staples

29

fig. 29.1

fig. 29.2

fig. 29.3

fig. 29.4

Page 33: Natural Swimming Pools

Liner Installation

As soon as the liner arrives on site inspect the roll thoroughly, lookingfor any outward appearances of damage that may have occurred duringtransport. Now is the time to reject the liner if it doesn’t pass inspection.The installation of a healthy liner is crucial to the process, and not hav-ing to patch or repair it will save a project from delays, headaches, orsleepless nights worrying about holding water.

The liner’s size (determined during planning stage) will tend to make itvery heavy. Now is the time to call in the muscles (extra hands) avail-able for liner positioning. By looking at the roll you can usually deter-mine which way it will unfold when it is rolled out, and taking advantageof this saves effort for positioning. Now lower the roll to the spot de-cided upon, and begin unrolling it lengthwise along one of the longersides of the pool (fig. 30.1). Consider being in socks when on the liner,or at least check shoes/boots for rocks and other sharp objects. As theliner is unfurled be sure to check for even positioning over the site andadjust accordingly. Starting on the bottom of the pool, make sure thereis plenty of liner covering the shape without any stretching. Smoothingout most wrinkles as you approach the top edge will assure the best useof liner.

Once the liner is well positioned on the pool contour and extends toreach the liner trench all the way around the feature, you are ready tolock in the liner (fig. 30.2). Now trim the liner so it will terminate in theliner trench and come up the backside of the trench slightly all aroundthe site. Upon completion of this stage, begin backfilling the trench withsoil. Compacting the soil by stomping in the dirt is a very effective wayto finish this step.

HELPFUL TOOLS:• box knife• shears• lots of helping hands• shovels (for backfilling trench)• loader with forks (for off-loading roll of liner

30

fig. 30.1

fig. 30.2

fig. 30.3

fig. 30.4

Page 34: Natural Swimming Pools

Swim Zone Retaining Wall

At this point in the assembly process it is time to incorporate a swimzone retaining wall (fig. 31.1). This wall becomes a multifunctional com-ponent of the Natural Swimming Pool system by providing a distinctlyclear area for recreational swimming, while also retaining and limitingthe planted filter zones. The concept of separated swimming and plantzones makes the Natural Swimming Pool more inviting to a broaderaudience of swimmers, including those who tend to be uncomfortable incompletely natural water sources (i.e.., lakes, farm ponds, rivers).

The size and type of the swim zone retaining wall should have beendetermined during the planning phase. The wall itself is composed ofpanels (or sections) to be constructed as per assembly plans (see p.32). The main rules of thumb are as follows: The top of the wall is to be4 - 6” below the intended water level of the pool so that water can passover the wall freely and winter freeze/thaw won’t adversely affect thestructure (the water level itself being 6” below the lowest point in theliner); The typical wall is between 3’ or 4’ tall; The shelf (or ledge) thatthe wall rests on is typically 3’ or 4’ above the pool bottom; An overallfinal water depth of 6.5’ to 8’ is necessary for jumping and diving pur-poses.

The final arrangement of a swim zone retaining wall can take on manyforms, although you may want to consider the fact that geometric perim-eter shapes create the strongest functional relationship.

If all the necessary care was given during the previous stages of con-struction, then the wall building process should go smoothly. It’s all amatter of careful consideration, combined with confident implementa-tion.

HELPFUL TOOLS:• string line• transit• laser level• tape

31

Packed sand ledge to mount the under water

retaining wall.

fig. 31.1

fig. 31.2

fig. 31.4

fig. 31.3

Page 35: Natural Swimming Pools

32

Swim Zone Retaining Wall - Detail

Model B Plan view (small scale)

A A

Cross Section AA (Enlarged)

Section Detail (Enlarged)

(Top Plate Removed)

Section Detail

3’ to 4’

2 x 10

2 x 6

Stainless steel Ring ShankNails (typical)

2 x 8s and 2 x 10s (as needed)

2 x 10

Doubled 2 x 6s (One on Each Panel or Section)

Swim Zone Retaining Wall (fig. 32.1) is fabricated as shown above us-ing Western Red Cedar, Alaska Yellow Cedar, White Oak or recycledPlastic Lumber (you might say, “why not cypress?” - as it turns out onlyold growth cypress have those wonderful rot resistant characteristicsand it is hard to find). Use Stainless steel ring shank nails or Stainlesssteel screws to fasten. Be careful that the fasteners on the bottom platedo not poke the liner. It’s also a good idea to use a router with 1/2”round-over bit to soften the square edges of the top and bottom plates.Using polyurethane expanding foam, run a bead along the inside bot-tom edge of the wall to help seal gaps between the liner and bottomplate (fig. 32.1). The weight of the rocks that go in the planted filter willlock and hold the wall down.

fig. 32.1

Page 36: Natural Swimming Pools

33

Planted Filter DetailsSoil capping and locking in liner Make open plant pouches with

heavy landscaping fabric and fillwith a soil, pea gravel and peat mix

Place and Wrap the 4” plasticdrain tile with heavy landscapingfabric(individually or together)

Cover the drain tile with 1 1/2” haydite orapproved river rock 18” deep (hold it downwhile placing the rock or the tile will float upon you)

Gently cover the plant pouches withadditional rock (pea gravel) (the plants areallowed to escape and grow beyond theirplant pouches in the future)

Periodically place 3” barley bale chipsaround the perimeter of the planted filter(12 chips to a 3’ bale) (A typical Model Bpool requires 6 bales worth)

1

2

3

4

5

Planted Filter Details

1) Place and Wrap the 4” plastic drain tile with heavy landscaping fabric(individually or together). Add a few rocks in to keep the fabric loosearound the drain tile.2) Cover the drain tile with 1 1/2” - 3” haydite or “approved” river rock18” deep (hold it down while placing the rock or the tile will float up onyou)“Approved” means you tested the rock in advance to see that it does notpush pH above 7.6. We use bottled water (that consistently has a pH of7.0) and soak rocks 72 hours before testing the result.3) Make open plant pouches with heavy landscaping fabric and fill witha soil and peat mix. The pouches supply nutrients for the first year andthe pool water will create nutrients there after.4) Periodically place 3” barley bale chips around the perimeter of theplanted filter (12 chips to a 3’ bale) (A typical Model B pool requires 6bales worth)Until the plants are mature and shading the shallow water, algae has anasty advantage. The barley will help stave it off.5) Gently cover the plant poaches with additional rock (pea gravel). Becreative with the very top layer of rocks with stepping stones and color.

fig. 33.1 planted filter

Page 37: Natural Swimming Pools

34

Biofilter Waterfall DetailsIf the pool in question (as in model B, see fig. 14.1) requires more filtra-tion than the planted filter will provide, then a Biofilter Waterfall is inorder (see fig. 34.1). The construction of a Biofilter Waterfall can takeon many forms. Through trial and testing, we have established a fewbasic operating standards that will ensure a properly functioning sys-tem.

Basic Assembly

There are a few choices to be made regarding the components involved,and the first element in this Biofilter Waterfall arrangement is choosing acontainer that will fulfill the capacity needs of the pool being built. Welike to use Rubbermaid tubs (available at farm supply distributors) thatrange from 50, 100, 150 to 300 gallons (fig. 34.2). These Rubbermaidtubs are very durable and have the added feature of built-in ledges (usefulfor the stage involving a support rack for the Biofilter media - see step 3on page 36). A 150 gallon tub can handle up to 100 GPM of input vol-ume from a 2” bulkhead receiving 2” flexible line, this then falls into a 4”drop tube that allows the water to aerate and come up from the bottomthru the bio-media (see fig. 34.3). The outflow volume is handled bypassively exiting the tub via 3” bulkhead fittings extended with 3” flexiblePVC that return to the pool as a waterfall (see fig. 34.3). Each 3” bulk-head outlet will safely allow 35 GPM to “fall” out. So, based on the watervolume input, port the tub accordingly. As an optional feature, a 2” bulk-head with a PVC valve inside the tub, and 2” flexible PVC exit line makesa bottom drain for the Biofilter - a nice maintenance upgrade for yearlycleaning - (see fig. 34.3).

Biofilter Media

The Biofilter System requires a “bio-media” to properly function. Thebio-media is the material on which beneficial bacteria live. The greaterthe surface area provided, the bigger the bacteria colony, the better thefilter works. As water flows thru the maze of bio-media it is stripped ofwaste solids and other pollutants. The composition of bio-media mayvary. Some of our favorites include; Hadite (shale that is tumbled at2200 degrees F, where it pops (like popcorn) and is totally inert (givesoff nothing) - fig. 34.3), bio-fill (a shredded pvc ribbon, low cost but harderto find), and fish floss (an extremely effective bundled fiber material, buta tad expensive). Zeolite mineral is very effective for absorbing excessnitrate. After deciding on a material to suit your needs, a means ofcontaining this material for easy insertion/removal is the next consider-ation. We find that large heavy-duty mesh nylon bags with a drawstring(occasionally used for laundry applications) will do the trick. This type ofbag will easily hold a cubic foot of bio-media. There are official Biofiltermedia bags for this application, although the cost is reflective of it’s in-dustry status (see fig. 42.3).

fig. 34.1 Biofilter Waterfall - complete plumbingassembly (top view).

fig. 34.2 Biofilter Waterfall - complete plumbingassembly (rear view).

fig. 34.4 Zeolite material - 3/4” to 2”

fig. 34.3 Haydite material - 3/4” to 2”

Page 38: Natural Swimming Pools

35

Biofilter WaterfallAssembly

Step 1

Step 2

150 gallon Rubbermaid livestock tub.

3” bulkhead assembly -1 bulkhead per 35 GPM ofinput volume. Drilled andinstalled in a horizontal row.Top edge of bulkhead is to be ator below bottom edge of 2” bulk-head on opposite side of tub.2” bulkhead assemblies -

one at highest point intub, centered forinput volume. One atlowest flat point in tub,centered for drain.

Slotted drain cap4” T-junction with 2”connection.2” rigid PVC to

stabilize column

2” flexible PVCfrom supply line.

2” PVC ball valve foroptional drain line.

2” flexible PVC buriedfor optional drain line.

3” flexible PVC cut todesired waterfall dropoff.

4” rigid PVC.

4” Four-way PVC junc-tion.

Page 39: Natural Swimming Pools

36

Biofilter Waterfall Assembly (cont.)

Step 3

Step 2

Support rack for bio-media.Made of 2” x 2” Red Cedar lumber (or recycled plas-tic building material) creating a lattice (grid) with 8”square openings, using stainless fasteners.

Mesh bio-media bags filled with Zeolite material(optional top layer for pools with fish load).

Mesh bio-media bags with haydite or other suitable fill material(bottom layer). This layer shouldcover most of the filter pad.

2” thick synthetic filterpad material with hole cutfor aeration down tube and aslit to allow for removal/cleaning.

Page 40: Natural Swimming Pools

37

Biofilter Waterfall Assembly (cont.)

Step 5

Step 6 Now that everything is functioning properly, you’ll want tobuild some sort of removable tub cover (cedar is lightweight andeasy to fabricate). A lip around the cover will keep it in place.

Time to turn onyour incoming watersource and verify functions.

Make sure the drainvalve is closed beforeturning the system on.

Water level should be belowthe incoming water source toinsure proper aeration.

Filtered water should now be falling intothe pool for added aeration. The plumb-ing is concealed by rocks/landscaping.

Aerated water is deliveredbelow the bio-media filter, andis directed upward through thesystem.

Page 41: Natural Swimming Pools

38

Pool Birth & MaintenanceGrowing a Balanced System

1) Prior to planting, start filling the pool while rinsing the 18” of plantedfilter rocks that are ready in place. You will notice that quite a bit of dustand debris has accumulated, pump this out and rinse again if neces-sary.2) Fill it up to the level where you are ready to plant the deeper plantsand plant them (this could easily take 24 hours or more depending onthe GPM capability of the source).3) While the pool is filling, ready the skimmer and Biofilter waterfall asper manufactures guide lines.4) Continue to fill and plant until the pool level fills the skimmer or ap-proaches the over flow point.5) Fill the filter basket with water to prime the pump and turn on thesystem. If flow does not fully engage re-prime and start again. If youhave a separate pump in the skimmer turn it on at this time.6) Add a de-chlorinator at the recommended dosage for your number ofactual gallons.7) Add bacteria and enzyme mix (powder or liquid fig. 38.1, 38.2, 38.3)at the recommended dosage for your number of “operative” gallons.Cast bacteria evenly over the planted filter surface and into the skim-mer. The water may get cloudy initially, but this is normal.8) Check the skimmer and pump filters frequently and clean as needed.9) After 24 hours test the water for pH and chlorine.10) Add a few fish for fun and go swimming! Wait two weeks before youturn on the UV sterilizers, so the bacteria has time to establish.

Maintenance

A well balanced pool requires relatively little maintenance. Check thepump basket, skimmer net and filter frequently at first and get to knowits cleaning needs (avoid dry pump at all costs, that is where the filtersget so dirty that water flow to the pump is insufficient, this is a good wayto shorten the life of the pump). Leaves may accumulate and may needto be netted out. Once a year, vacuum out the pool and thoroughly cleanthe Biofilter medium and reapply bacteria. You should never have toempty the pool and replace the water.Battling string algae is the hardest part of pool maintenance. Begin treat-ing the water at the first sign of trouble and net out any emerging algaegrowth.The initial treatment of bail chips should get you through the first sea-son. Excessive nitrate and phosphorous in the system will cause prob-lems. Keep the number and size of fish low. Add new oxygenating andfloating plants early each spring (they die off in northern climates) andreapply bacteria.

fig. 38.1 Proline - Bacteria in a Bag (goodpowder bacteria and enzyme mix)

fig. 38.2 Bio-Seed Nitrifying Bacteria Misty Mountain’sBIO-SEED nitrosomona/nitrobacter formula

fig. 38.3 Microbe-Lift (good liquid bacteria andenzyme mix) (but, more expensive)

Page 42: Natural Swimming Pools

39

Water Quality Goals

• The pH of the pool should be between 6.4 and 7.6.• The concentration of nitrate (NO2) should be less than .1 ppm.• At a ph of 6.4 to 7.2 and 3 to 8 KH (carbonate hardness) the CO2

concentration should be between 5 to15 ppm.• Carbonate hardness (part of water hardness) should be 3 to 8 KH.• Fecal Coliform should never exceed 200 per 100 ml, enterococci shouldnever exceed 30 per 100 ml (geometric mean of the bacterial densities)(must be lab tested - contact your local health department to find a labnear you).• Clear

Overwintering

It largely depends on the weather conditions in your area. If you havefish stop feeding them when the water temperature drops below 50 F.The fish are less active now and do not require food. This food will onlypollute the water. If lakes and ponds freeze in your area you may need ahorse trough heater (or floating pond deicer) to keep an open spot in theice. This is important because you have to have an open area to allowfor gas exchange to take place, and the fish still require oxygen to breathe.

If the pool freezes over completely turn the waterfall off, but leave theplanted filter pump running. The unpredictable nature of winter in Canadaand the Northern United States makes the overwintering of your poolmore challenging. We recommend that valuable and sentimental life bebrought indoors if there is any doubt about safe and successful overwin-tering in the pool.

fig. 39.1

Page 43: Natural Swimming Pools

40

Products

Skimmers

Currently, we like the “PRO” series skimmers by PondSweep.They are sturdy, easy to maintain, have a large leaf net and come with abottle brush option which double the time between cleaning (and addsome biological filtering). We especially like the 16” wide opening in the1200 model.Larger pools often need more than one skimmer, we address this byusing one 1200 model for the main skimmer and a 900 model for asecondary skimmer. See www.totalhabitat.com for discount pricing andcurrent recommendations.

SK700PRO

L23 inches x W19.5 inches x H23 inches. The suggested retail is $349.99

SK900PRO (fig. 40.1)A top professional’s choice for bigger ponds (upto 900 sq. ft.) and bigger pumps, up to 7,000 gph. All the versatility andfiltration capacity you’ve come to expect from the PRO series, as de-scribed for the SK700PRO. Also constructed from high-strength durable,engineered material. The filter mat can be located in three positionsfront to back and one position nearly horizontal. Placing the mat in oneof the back two positions, allows for filter brushes in one or two rows tobe placed in front of the mat. L25 inches x W23 inches x H29 inches.The suggested retail is $529.99

SK1200PRO (fig. 40.2)The same vault and flexibility of the PRO900 butwith 16" bellows. A great skimmer for pumps from 3,000 to 10,000 gph.L25 inches x W23 inches x H29 inches. The suggested retail is $579.99

SK1500F (fig. 40.3)The workhorse skimmer for those who want the big-gest possible vault and up to 3 rows of 6 brushes per row. FiberglassConstruction for high-strength. Great for tall pumps and comes stan-dard with a protective filter mat unlike competitors models. Also, includesa huge leaf net, aluminum mat frame and a fiberglass artificial rock lid.L40 inches x W22 inches x H30.5 inches. The suggested retail is$1,599.99

fig. 40.1 Sk900Pro Skimmer - Cutaway. 8”Opening

fig. 40.2 Sk1200Pro Skimmer - 16” Opening

fig. 40.3 Sk1500F Skimmer - Fiberglass

Page 44: Natural Swimming Pools

Biofilter Waterfalls

The aeration and aesthetics of waterfalls cannot be under estimated.You can build your own biofilter waterfall as we have described earlier inthis book or purchase one (or two) of these.

The triple filtration Purifalls® filter. • (fig. 41.1)Vault - Rugged molded boxes withstand the rigors of freezing weatherand in the ground installation. Easily hidden in the ground and with plants,to mimic the appearance of a natural stream. Easy to connect pipes andplumbing. Built in waterfall ledge greatly simplifies waterfall construc-tion. Plant Baskets (optional) Fill with aquatic plants to create a naturalplant filter area. Aquatic plants help hide the box. Net Bags Large bagsare capable of holding twenty-five pounds of bio-media. Biological me-dia and filter mats provide more surface area for beneficial bacteria.Filter mats are durable and long lasting. Parallel un-tapered vault wallsensure a perfect mat fit. Large size reduces the number of times it needsto be cleaned. Sizes Waterfalls widths of 14, 18, 24, 40 and 54 incheswide. Create a waterfall with pumps from 500 to 20,000 gallons per hour.See www.totalhabitat.com for discount pricing and current recommen-dations.

PF24DL This 24" wide opening for the waterfalls uses a “Detached Lip”and silicone sealant to attach and seal the liner to the face of the box.The ”Detachable Lip” allows us to maximize the filtration capacity of thisUPSable filter. This medium-density polyethylene construction is alsoextremely rugged and rated for up to 5,000 gph. The hole for the in-cluded 2" bulkhead fitting is predrilled on the back of the box. Suggestedretail is $419.99. • (fig. 41.2)

PF40P The 40P is the “large” pond, high pump flow workhorse. The 40"wide waterfall opening will accommodate pumps up to about 15,000gph. Ruggedly built from medium-density polyethylene with a built-inwaterfall lip. Truck ship only due to the large size. The hole for the in-cluded 3" bulkhead fitting is not predrilled on the box, it must be done bythe installer.Suggested retail is $799.99. • (fig. 41.3)

Often called the “Big Kahuna” by those professionals who want the big-gest and the best. The largest PuriFalls® rated for pumps up to 20,000gph using a 54" opening. High-strength fiberglass for those who wantthe strongest vault and least distortion in a box of mammoth propor-tions. The hole for the included 3" bulkhead fitting is not predrilled onthe box, it must be done by the installer. Suggested retail is $1799.99. •(fig. 41.4)

fig. 41.1 Biofilter Waterfall - Cross-section

fig. 41.2 Biofilter Waterfall - 24” falls, 5000 GPH

fig. 41.3 Biofilter Waterfall - 40” falls, 15,000 GPH

fig. 41.4 Biofilter Waterfall - 54” falls, 20,000 GPH

41

Page 45: Natural Swimming Pools

UV Sterilizers

After shopping around extensively, we have come to like the Carefree,stainless steel U V sterilizers. They are swimming pool safe, stainlesssteel (polished on the inside to reflect UV light back to work), and areeasy to work with. See www.totalhabitat.com for discount pricing andcurrent recommendations.

Carefree UV 150-Watt Water Sterilizer •150 Watt Ultraviolet Light (ForPonds 13,000 - 24,000 gallons) Flow Rates: UW-sec/cm2* = 15,000 =80 gallons per minute. Intake/Discharge Size: 2 inches Diameter: 6.625inches Overall Length: 40 inches Number of Bulbs: 2 Consider thesebenefits in choosing this Carefree Stainless Steel UV Light - LifetimeWarranty on Housing - 10,000 Hour UV Sterilizer Light Capacity - Safefor Drinking, Bath, and Pond Water. Free of dangerous and toxic chemi-cals - Safely eliminates virtually all bacteria, molds, and fungi - Photo-oxidizes and destroys combined chlorine and chlorine by-products, suchas chloramines and other toxic organic pollutants - Easy to install andvirtually maintenance-free - All units are pretested for any manufactur-ing defects and come with complete installation instructions.Suggested Retail: $ 2895.00. • (fig. 42.1)

Carefree UV 75-Watt Water Sterilizer 75 Watt Ultraviolet Light (For Ponds8,000 - 13,000 gallons) Flow Rates: UW-sec/cm2* = 15,000 = 42 gal-lons per minute. Overall Length: 40 inches Number of Bulbs: 1Suggested Retail: $ 1699.00. • (fig. 42.2)

Carefree UV 40-Watt Water Sterilizer, 40 Watt Ultraviolet Light (For Ponds3,500 - 8,000 gallons) Flow Rates: UW-sec/cm2* = 15,000 = 24 gallonsper minute Overall Length: 42 inches Number of Bulbs: 1Suggested Retail: $ 610.00.

Biofilter Mesh Bags

Mesh Bags Hold Carbon, Zeolite, and Fish Floss Filter Media in ourdurable mesh bags. Black Bag is 18" x 30" Blue Bag is 15.5" x 27" WhiteBag is 12" x 16" Suggested Retail: $ 20.00. • (fig. 42.3)

fig. 42.1 Carefree UV 150-Watt Water Sterilizer

fig. 42.2 Carefree UV 75-Watt Water Sterilizer

fig. 42.3 Bio-media mesh Bags

42

Page 46: Natural Swimming Pools

Automated Sand Filter Packages

Although we have given you lots of information regarding planted filters,Biofilters and bogs, some larger budget pools can have remote/auto-mated filters like these.

The HydraSCAPE Filtration Systems (fig. 43.1) are complete, with match-ing proven filter components that together, achieve effective filtering.HydraSCAPE Filtration Systems combine our HydraSCAPE Filters, Au-tomatic Backwash Valve, SMART UV Sterilization powered by a depend-able water pump to create a complete filtration system capable of filter-ing heavy solid waste applications up to 58,000 gallons. TheHydraSCAPE Filtration Systems components work together providingeffective filtering service for applications producing above-normalamounts of heavy solid waste. The HydraSCAPE Filtration System op-erates independently, requiring little maintenance, quickly solving sus-pended solid waste as well as nuisance waterborne algae problems with-out harmful chemicals. See www.totalhabitat.com for discount pricingand current recommendations.

• 36" HydraScape Filter System for pools up to 35,000 gallons• 42" HydraScape Filter System for pools up to 46,000 gallons• 48" HydraScape Filter System for pools up to 58,000 gallons

fig. 43.1 HydraScape Automated Filter System

fig. 43.2 HydraScape Automated Filter System -Diagram

43

Page 47: Natural Swimming Pools

Bacteria

Bio-Seed Nitrifying Bacteria (1 Gallon) Misty Mountain’s BIO-SEEDnitrosomona/nitrobacter formula is state-of-the-science technology atwork. Our formula “eats” ammonia and nitrates, and cuts the ammoniacycle time by 2/3. This product contains live nonpathogenic, nontoxicbacteria in a freshwater preservative formula. The preservative allowsseveral months of shelf life for this very fragile bacteria. Nitrifying bacte-ria should state Nitrosomonas/Nitrobacter Bacteria on the bottle. Nitrify-ing bacteria can not be dry powder; it must be liquid only. Once you’veseeded your pond with BIO-SEED you can expect the rest of theMETHOD to be in place, because the last part of the ammonia cycleresults in nitrate, i.e. plant food. , BIO-SEED GOLD! Bio-Seed Gold re-duces the ammonia cycle time to 1 week (Regular Bio-Seed cycle timeis approximately 2 weeks.).Suggested Retail: $ 59.50. (fig. 44.1)

AlgaeFix™

Pond Care AlgaeFix™ is a liquid algae-control product for use in orna-mental fish ponds and water gardens containing live plants and fish.Pond Care AlgaeFix™ controls many types of algae including “greenwater” blooms and filamentous algae. USE AS A LAST RESORT.•16 oz. Treats 4,800 U.S. gallons (fig. 44.2)•64 ounces treats 19,200 U.S. gallons

pH Stabilizer

On some pools/ponds, despite our careful efforts, the pH wants to be alittle high (8 - 8.5). This slows plant growth and create an unfair advan-tage for string algae. To easiest way to correct this (if budget allows) isto install a pH Stabilizer. This handy little, self feeding device has pelletsthat are half alkaline and half acid. If acid is needed, only that half dis-solves, if alkaline is needed, only that half dissolves - either way it canstabilize pH right at 7.5 for up to 6 months on one fil l. Seewww.totalhabitat.com for discount pricing and current recommendations.

Carefree Titration Feeder (fig. 44.3) this easy-to-install, in-line unit dis-penses your pH STABILIZER 7.5 Slow-dissolving Tablets at a steadyand consistent rate. This product can be used for swimming pools.Sug. Retail: $ 399.00, Your Cost from Total Habitat: $ At least 25% offTablets give up to 6 months of stable pH at 7.5. Buckets contain 225tablets. Suggested Retail $ 140.00.

fig. 44.1 Bio-Seed Nitrifying Bacteria (Gallon) MistyMountain’s BIO-SEED nitrosomona/nitrobacter formula

fig. 44.2 Pond Care AlgaeFix™

fig. 44.3 pH STABILIZER 7.5

44

Page 48: Natural Swimming Pools

Dechlorinator

Dechlorinator Plus (Quart) DECHLORINATOR PLUS is an all-in-oneproduct which instantly ages water and removes chlorine, chloramines,heavy metals and other pollutants from tap or well water. Designed witha special herbal formula which promotes the development of beneficialnitrifying bacteria, it provides necessary pH buffers and natural electro-lytes, which helps prevent disease. Extremely effective in new pondsetups and during water changes, DECHLORINATOR PLUS has an in-definite shelf life and is twice as concentrated as other water condition-ers. Suggested Retail: $ 28.00. (fig. 45.1)

Black Foam Sealant

We use this expanding foam product to manage the flow of water aroundlarge rocks and waterfalls. It will block water from flowing under or be-hind a rock, so you can see the water flow.

Pur Black Foam Sealant (Do-it-Yourself) Our Pur Black NF Foam Seal-ant is perfect for sealing gaps and spaces between rocks in ponds andwaterfalls. It even comes with its own dispensing straw. This product issafe for fish & plant life and is easy to use in all pond keeping applica-tions. Suggested Retail: $ 28.50. (fig. 45.2)

Water Testing Kits

Professional Water Quality Test Kit • By far, this is the best Water Qual-ity Test Kit ever assembled. It even comes with a carrying case. TheWater Quality Test Kit includes: pH Meter, Salt Meter, Ammonia, Nitrite,Total Alkalinity, and Calibration Solutions. (Replacement reagents soldseparately). Suggested Retail: $ 399.00. (fig. 45.3)

fig. 45.1 Dechlorinator Plus

fig. 45.2 Pur Black Foam Sealant

fig. 45.3 Professional Water Quality Test

45

Page 49: Natural Swimming Pools

46

IndexAAAAA

Aeration 14algae 9

Filamentous algae 9Planktonic algae 9String algae 9UV Sterilizer 9

AlgaeFix 10, 44Auto-filling 10

BBBBB

Bacteria 38, 44Bacteria in a Bag 38barley straw 10beneficial bacteria 7Big Recipe 3Biofilter 11Biofilter media 7Biofilter Waterfall Assembly 35Biofilter Waterfall Details 34Biofilter Waterfalls 41biological filters 11Biological Filtration 7Black Foam Sealant 45

CCCCC

Calculating Operative Pond Volume 12Calculating Pool Size 11carbonate hardness 39City Folk 2Country Folk 2

DDDDD

Dechlorinator 45DIG-SAFE 22Dragon Pump 6

EEEEE

enterococci 39Excavation 28

FFFFF

Fecal Coliform 39Filamentous algae 9Filtration 7

beneficial bacteria 7Biofilter media 7Biofilter Waterfall 7Biological Filtration 7Mechanical Filtration 7Nitrification Process 8Skimmer 7

HHHHH

Head 5Figuring Total Head 5

HELPFUL TOOLS 27holistic life-style 1

LLLLL

Liner Installation 30Liners 5

EDPM rubber 5Reinforced Polyethylene 5

MMMMM

maintain pH 10Maintenance 38Materials 10Mechanical Filtration 7Mesh Bag 42microbiological organisms 9Money Saver Pumps 5

NNNNN

Natural Water Cleaning 4Nitrification Process 8Nitrifying Bacteria 38NO2 39

OOOOO

Operative Pond Volume Factors 13Overflow 10Overwintering 39Oxygenating Plants 26

Page 50: Natural Swimming Pools

37

PPPPP

pH 39pH Stabilize 44pH Stabilizer 44Planktonic algae 9Planning and Design 22Planted Filter Details 33Planted Filter Plants 25Planted Filters 11Plants 25

Arrowhead 25Bladderwort 26Bullrush 25Cardinal flower 25Common cattail 25Cutleaf coneflower 25iris 26lotus 26Lugwigia 26Marsh Marigold 26Marsh marigold 25Oxygenating Plants 26primrose 25reedgrass 25sedge 25Starter Plant List 25Torry's rush 25Water hyacinth 26Water hyssop 26water lilies 26Water sedge 25Watercress 26

Plumbing System Overview 6Products 40

AlgaeFix 44Bacteria 44Biofilter Waterfalls 41Dechlorinator 45Mesh Bag 42pH Stabilizer 44Sand Filter 43Skimmers 40UV Sterilizers 42

Pumping & Plumbing 5Pumping water 6

SSSSS

Sand Filter 43site development 22Site Marking 27Sizing the filter systems 11Skimmers 40String algae 9Swim Zone Retaining Wall 31Swim Zone Retaining Wall - Detail 32Swimming Zone 12

UUUUU

underground utilities 27Underlayment 29USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 13USDA Plant Zone Map 13UV Sterilizer 9UV Sterilizers 42

WWWWW

Water Quality Goals 39Water Testing Kits 45Wave and Dragon pumps 5