Pool 2. Peter Clarke takes us on a tour of 4 swimming pools to show the long term benefits of converting pools into beautiful environmental sanctuaries. Director, editor Howard Jackson, Wildhoop Productions.
Peter Clarke gives step by step instructions on how to change your unused pool into a beautiful pond. Director, editor Howard Jackson, Wildhoop Productions.
If you have an unwanted or unused swimming pool sitting in your backyard this could be the program for you. Why not join the more than fifty other Pool to Pond converts and go with an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative that promotes biodiversity?
We have been assisting local residents to convert their unwanted swimming pools into ponds since 2007 by supplying native fish, aquatic plants and technical advice for the conversion.
Benefits
A converted swimming pool is essentially a rainwater tank without a lid
Switching off the pool pump and filter can easily save you up to $1,000 annually on your electricity bills
The conversion is reversible
A pond enhances household sustainability by reducing toxic chemical use while providing a source of water for garden irrigation
Water quality is well within government-mandated recreational standards
Mosquitoes are not a problem
Maintaining a pond is not expensive or time-consuming
You can promote biodiversity in your own backyard.
Frequently asked questions
Are mosquitoes a problem?
No. Approximately 60 mosquito species live in the Sydney area, three to four of which are considered pests. These three to four species prefer temporary water sources and dislike living in depths greater than 30cm. These mosquitoes are typically found in saucers under pot plants.
Will my water smell?
Pond odour has not been raised as an issue with any of the conversions. The surface area of a pool is large enough to ensure that the water is relatively oxygenated.
Is the water safe?
A study facilitated by a researcher at the University of Western Sydney has shown that the water in converted ponds meets Australian recreational water guidelines. The water is "clean" enough to swim in provided that animals such as ducks are not present in large numbers, as that can lead to faecal coliform contamination. However, the water standard of converted pools does not meet drinking water guidelines.
Will a pond damage my pump and filter?
Pumps and filters are manufactured to last for approximately eight years and may need to be replaced if the pond is converted back into a swimming pool. Algae will not cause any problems for your pool equipment.
More information
If you would like to find out more about converting your pool to a pond or indeed sign up for the program, please contact us. We are very happy to help.
Pool to Pond is a part of Ku-ring-gai Council’s WildThings program, which also includes information on and support for native stingless bees in Ku-ring-gai.
Phone: Peter on 9424 0811 or Liz on 9424 0618
Email: wildthings@kmc.nsw.gov.au with your name and address for a hard copy version of the plants and fish brochure