If you have enough land, a few gardening and green building skills and a plan, it may be worth considering for keen swimmers to indulge in a natural swimming pool. Obviously not for everyone, but these are free from chlorine (one of the most toxic substances known to man) and let nature filter the water, along with a bit of easy upkeep.
Also read the post on greener swimming costumes.
Natural swimming pools or ponds rely on plants, gravel and filtration zones, to keep the water clean. Most have a swimming zone and a regeneration zone, where plants filter the water. They blend beautifully into gardens, and look more like natural ponds.
Have sloping sides to avoid drowning hazards for wildlife. Learn how to make your garden safe for pets, to know toxic plants to avoid (blue-green algae is very toxic to pets). Although dogs can swim, they can still get cramp (talk to your vet about suitable lifejackets).
Avoid netting on ponds, this can trap birds and wildlife. To keep wildlife safe near pools, use FrogLog (a ladder to let small critters escape) and Critter Skimmer (rescues trapped creatures – get both as they do different things). How many you need, depends on pool size.
Tips for Building a Natural Swimming Pool/Pond
Of course first you need to pick the right spot. A good pond needs sunlight so plants in the regeneration zone can thrive, and so also avoid areas with lots of falling leaves or encroaching tree roots that may cause problems. Ideal choose a flat area, it will be easier!
Next is choosing the size and shape of your swimming pool. It can be quite compact, though luxury properties including hotels may prefer something larger. Then you can get professional help in the form of books or professionals to do all the technical and building stuff.
What’s important is to use biological filtration systems like bases of sand and gravel that help trap debris and purify water, with safe ways to circulate the water between the swimming and regeneration zones, without chemicals.
Plants are then added to help things along (remove impurities and oxygenate the water). You may of course then start swimming, and bump into a friendly frog or dragonfly!
Maintaining Natural Swimming Pools
It’s pretty easy to maintain a natural swimming pool. You need to skim the surface regularly to remove leaves and debris, and gently brush the pool walls, to remove algae.
Monitor water quality and keep an eye out for unpleasant odours. Always check that any pumps or filtration systems are not blocked. And as long as plants are thriving, your pool should regulate itself.
Help to Build a Natural Swimming Pool
Building Natural Ponds is the main how-to book. There are many companies that offer good advice and services:
