Swimming Ponds
Swimming ponds are naturally cleansed uncontaminated water bodies fed by rainwater which utilizes the water cleansing properties of the wetlands to function. Recreational swimming ponds retention time of water is approximately more than a year. To minimize sedimentation, the volume of the reservoir divided by the annual rainfall runoff shall be greater than 1. The depth of natural swimming ponds is typically 3m or about 10 ft. The depth specification allows water thermal stratification and seasonal turnovers that may lead to formation of natural ferrous sulfate.
The characteristic of which helps the pond to trap and remove suspended particles. However, the depth may not be applicable to the entire pond but may be limited to a single large hole near the dam if possible. Watershed consideration need not be larger than what is necessary. It shall be sufficient enough to replenish water leakage and evaporation in a dry year. The control of nutrient intake inhibits eutrophication. This necessitates provision of shallow areas to absorb plant nutrients.
Specifications for shallow areas depth shall be less than 1.5m or 5 ft. It functions to minimize algae growth and formation in swimming pond areas. To meet desirable swimming water quality standards, the site of the swimming ponds impoundment should be stripped of all organic material. Ponds suitability for swimming is entirely dependent on water quality, form, and depth. This process fulfills bioretention system, is absolutely rain fed and does not use water from the pipe.
Building a swimming pond requires design creativity and inspiring ideas of people literally swimming with the fish giving rather unique awesome experience. Swimming ponds construction is a chemical free combination of a swimming pool and a rain garden effect that provides all the benefits of a wildlife pool. Soil in ponds must have at least 10 to 20 percent clay content. Aerate the water when needed to ensure sufficient supply of oxygen for the fish to breathe. Always take note to design the pond with the swimmer in mind to create a natural swimming experience.
Usual choice for construction of ponds is rubber or plastic liners because of its low cost ease of installation and unlimited size potential. Stronger and thicker liners are more puncture resistant and may last longer. The liner must be constantly adjusted to minimize development of folds. Designs vary according to interest, budget constraints and space availability. Sufficient source of groundwater may be bore first on a small diameter six foot deep hole. This is to ascertain water level fluctuation which shall be observed for over a year.
The lowest water level is an important factor in designing adequate water depth of the swimming pond. Natural swimming ponds are self-cleaning and look all natural where water is circulated through regeneration zones drawing it across a wall of rocks and loose gravel to filter organic bacteria. They are now becoming a fad for people who want to take a bath with nature and nonchlorinated water.
