2013/2.1, February 6 — A Natural Hybrid, Tips on ‘Green’ Watershaping, Pond Shaving and more

February 6, 2013 www.watershapes.com

ESSENTIAL

Planting a Pool

Plants and swimming pools go together beautifully, says watershaper James Robyn, particularly when a pool is flanked by a gorgeous stream and pond. And as he observes in discussing a recent project that included participation of master watergardener Anthony Archer Wills, it gets even more interesting when you set things up in such a way that the all of the systems can be combined into one fully functional ‘natural pool’ in the future.

This article, originally published in January 2011, has been digitized for all readers. Once you click ‘more’ on the next screen, you can zoom in on images to study the craftsmanship in detail. [click here to continue]

VIDEO GALLERY

A Winter Pond Workout

Pond expert Mike Gannon knows that watergardens built in cold climates require a certain amount of attention in the course of a long winter. In fact, they sometimes summon their owners outdoors to engage in what can become a strenuous cold-weather workout. [more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

Watershaping, Green-Style

Lots of his clients are after Scott Cohen to think ‘green’ in designing their watershapes these days — a reality that’s led him to explore eco-friendly options including everything from dark interior finishes and insulating covers to solar-powered pumps and heating systems. [more]

TECHNICAL BRIEFING

Tank Command

Surge tanks may end up being out of sight, notes hydraulics expert Steve Gutai, but they should never be out of mind as you strive for efficiency and reliability in any water-in-transit system that calls for their use. Here’s a look at keys to success with these installations. [more]

WATERSHAPES WORLD

Real-World Watershaping

Recent headlines testify to the fact that elaborate watershapes sometimes need attention — a notion that leads Jim McCloskey to think serviceability and wonder aloud if designs are getting so intricate that they’re becoming too difficult to maintain or repair. [more]

WHAT’S NEW?

Now at WaterShapes.com . . .

Last week, we completed the monumental task of archiving all of our WaterShapes EXTRA e-newsletters in close to their original form. We have more work to do in organizing access to them, but do click here for a sneak preview.

Lost Arms, Legs in Iraq

U.S. Soldier Eager to Swim
After Double Arm Transplant

[click here for more — and a special offer!]

TRAVELOGUE

Memory Lane

The last time he was in Pittsburgh, Jim McCloskey saw a dancing fountain performing where, years earlier, there had been nothing more than a gaping hole in the ground that would eventually become PPG Plaza. Here’s a look at this now-complete, most visit-worthy space. [more]

WATERSHAPES CLASSIC

Finding Touchstones

Back in February 2008, Brian Van Bower wrote passionately about professional specialization, personal style and design signatures. Have you chosen your own path — or is that even a good idea? [more]

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

U.S. Marine Corps Water Survival
Instructor Explains S.A.F.E. Plan

Many water-related stories have been in the news of late – including reports connected to the three questions below.

1. Sgt. Trevor McLaren, a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival, recently explained the corps’ four-point S.A.F.E. plan, which is designed to help Marines stay alive in the water even while carrying heavy gear. Which one of the following is not really part of the plan?

a. S – Slow and Easy Movements b. A – Apply Natural Buoyancy

c. F – Full Lung Inflation d. E – Exhale Completely.

2. It has been announced that the 2013 International Paralympic Committee Swimming World Championships will be held in what Canadian city?

a. Toronto b. Montreal c. Vancouver d. Winnipeg.

3. The driver of a large yellow school bus in one Texas city lost control of the vehicle, hit a utility pole, crashed through a fence and wound up straddling the pool at a nearby motel. (Luckily, there were no children onboard at the time.) Where did the mishap take place?

a. Dallas b. Houston c. San Antonio d. El Paso.

To find out how many you got right, click here.