As the interest and popularity of natural swimming pools (NSP) and recreational ponds continues to grow in North America, we see an increase in questions about how they work, what products are recommended and what should be considered when designing them. One of the first questions that often comes up is, “What is the difference […]
Natural Swimming Pools and Recreational Ponds: What You Need to Know Read More »
Let me begin by stating what this article is not going to cover — a biology lesson and municipal codes. What it will cover is how to maintain water quality in recreational ponds. Following major back surgery in 2008, I was fortunate and healthy enough to pursue my latest passion in my life. For the
How to Maintain Water Quality in Recreational Ponds Read More »
Imagine strolling by a serene pond in your backyard or a beautifully maintained lake, bread in hand, ready to feed the ducks. It seems harmless, even enjoyable — but did you know that this simple act can have devastating consequences for both the ducks and the pond itself? This article examines the hidden dangers of
The Hidden Dangers of Feeding Ducks at Ponds Read More »
Nestled within the rustic greenery of a West Michigan backyard, a hidden gem awaits. This is a recreational swim pond like no other. Crafted with over 350 tons of natural outcropping and weathered limestone, this aquatic paradise boasts a white sand beach area. Eight aeration jets provide optimal circulation and natural stone steps meander into
Crafting a recreational swim pond in West Michigan Read More »
In the quest for serenity and a connection with nature, many homeowners are turning to recreational ponds as a transformative addition to their outdoor spaces. These purposefully crafted bodies of water not only bring aesthetic appeal but also offer the ideal opportunity for interacting with water. When you consider the actual definition of a recreational
Overcoming the Challenges of Building a Recreational Pond Read More »
When my wife Christie and I decided we would stay in our existing home for the rest of our lives, we had an architect design a massive renovation. Drawing up the plan took a year. It took two more years to wipe out the debt necessary to initiate action. Today, our home serves as my
Contractors Collaborate on Recreational Pond Read More »
As a design-build company based in Southern California and with the state being so large, Mystic Water Gardens often get opportunities to travel up north to do large-scale projects. This time, we were presented the opportunity to do a project nestled in the foothills of Wine Country, close to Lake Tahoe. During my first
Pond Construction | Recreational Ecosystem Pond Build in Northern California Read More »
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a historic institution in our nation’s oldest city. Since he was a child, zoo director John Brueggen’s passion for reptiles has grown into a highly regarded career engaged in and overseeing education and research on reptiles, birds and other animals at the zoo and in expeditions around
A Florida Recreational Pond Blends Swimming and Wildlife Read More »
This year we are proud to expand the 2025 Water Artisans of the Year to showcase even more exceptional work across the industry. By recognizing the 2nd runners up in each category, we’re able to celebrate a broader range of creativity, craftsmanship and innovation that deserves to be seen. The more work we share, the
2025 Water Artisans of the Year – 2nd Runners-Up Read More »
2025 Water Artisans of the Year Runners-Up and their projects define the margins of excellence Each year, the Water Artisans of the Year judging process reveals just how high that bar has become. Projects earning runner-up distinction are not secondary achievements; they represent work that pushed the judges into careful deliberation and stood shoulder-to-shoulder with
Excellence at the Edge: 2025 Water Artisans of the Year Runners-Up Read More »