Aquascape, Inc. sets the date of August 22nd to 24th for its annual Pondemonium® training event, which is now in its 13th season as the pond industry’s premiere business and networking event for distributors, contractors, and retailers. This year’s theme, Fit for the Fight, focuses on keeping your water garden business in shape in order to meet the ever-changing demands of today’s market.

“We already have some amazing events planned for this year’s Pondemonium®,” says Greg Wittstock, founder and CEO of Aquascape, Inc. “We’ve secured Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago for our kick-off party and hands-on training sessions.”  In addition, Wittstock will interview former Navy Seal Jim Walston during the event’s keynote address on Friday morning.

Pond tours, hands-on construction training, new product showcases, business and marketing seminars, and networking events round out the menu of opportunities for Pondemonium® attendees. Held at Aquascape’s headquarters in St. Charles, Illinois, Pondemonium® immediately follows the Independent Garden Center Show in Chicago, allowing participants the opportunity to attend both events.

To learn more about Pondemonium®, log onto www.pondemonium.com.

Aquascape introduces its new Floating Plant Island, an ideal solution for displaying marginal aquatic plants in deeper areas of the pond where there are no plant shelves.  The floating planter effectively keeps the soil intact and lets water in while protecting plants from fish.

“Many pond owners don’t have shelves in their ponds and have been asking for an efficient way to incorporate marginal plants into their water garden,” states Scott Rhodes, Director of Product Marketing for Aquascape, Inc. “Our Floating Plant Island is constructed to stay afloat at the surface of the pond and works well in all types of pond construction, including preformed ponds.”

The 15x11” Floating Plant Island retails for $26.98 and is equipped with an anchoring loop for positioning plants. Extremely easy to use, the Floating Plant Island is an economical way to add the beauty of marginal plants to any pond.

For more information about the Floating Plant Island and other Aquascape products, download the Aquascape catalog at www.aquascapeinc.com/product-catalogs or call 866-877-6637 (US) or 866-766-3426 (CAN).

St. Charles, IL – A team of Aquascape Foundation volunteers installed a 15,000 gallon rainwater harvesting system in the Dominican Republic at FilterPure Filters, a non profit organization committed to providing safe drinking water to at-risk populations of the developing world. The captured and stored rainwater will be used to aid production of FilterPure’s ceramic water filtration device that is distributed throughout the region.

The newly installed RainXchange® System captures and stores rainwater from the roof of FilterPure’s plant in a subsurface reservoir where it can be accessed for aid in production of the filters that are made from local red clay, sawdust, and colloidal silver. Additionally, the water is available to the community for use in daily needs such as washing and showering. Ed Beaulieu, director of contractor development and field research for Aquascape, designed the system for the plant and led the construction process during the week of February 18, 2013.

“Installing the RainXchange® System for Lisa Ballantine’s FilterPure Filter’s organization was truly rewarding,” says Carla Wittstock, president of the Aquascape Foundation. “Lisa was an inspiration to me and motivated me to start the Aquascape Foundation. I’m so grateful to our group of volunteers who helped with this project and made it possible to increase production of the water purifying filters.”

Aquascape Foundation volunteers who participated in the rainwater harvesting project included Greg Wittstock, CEO and founder of Aquascape Inc in St. Charles, IL; Foundation president Carla Wittstock, Wayne, IL; Foundation vice-president, Ed Beaulieu of Aquascape, Inc; Kathy Smith of Tropical Water Gardens in Deland, FL; Sean Frost and April Dugan of Nature Scapes in Grafton, NE; Paul Rubel of Northern Cascade Supplies in New Milford, NJ; Pieter VanWestervelt and Debra Cianfrone of Premium Aquascapes in New Milford, NJ; Al Lentz of Lentzcaping in Warminster, PA; Jaak Harju of Atlantis Watergardening in Rockaway, NJ; Paul Edling of Bloodgood Landscape in Horsham, PA; and Paul Covarrubias of Aquascape, Inc in St. Charles, IL

For more information on the Aquascape Foundation and its mission, log onto www.aquascapefoundation.org. For information on Aquascape’s RainXchange® rainwater harvesting system, visit www.aquascapeinc.com. For information on FilterPure Filters, visit www.filterpurefilters.org.

The Aquascape Foundation is a not for profit 501 (c) 3 organization established in 2008. The mission of The Foundation is to create sustainable solutions for the world-wide water crisis. The purpose of The Foundation is to promote awareness of water as our most precious resource through environmental, educational and philanthropic efforts.

Aquascape is North America’s leading innovator in the water gardening industry. Aquascape invented the low-maintenance, naturally balanced ecosystem pond that is the # 1 contractor-installed water garden. The St. Charles, Illinois headquarters, dubbed “Aqualand,” received Silver Level recognition in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating system. Aquascape’s mission is to help our customers succeed at building, selling, and retailing water garden products while supplying innovative products and solutions that capture, clean and reuse our planet’s most valuable resource - water. Aquascape and its vast network of Authorized AquascapePRO™ Distributors sell exclusively to contractors and retailers. Founded in 1991, Aquascape made the Inc. 500 list of fastest growing private companies four years in a row. In 2005, founder and CEO Greg Wittstock was named one of America’s Best Bosses by FORTUNE Small Business Magazine and Winning Workplaces™.

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With heavy hearts the family of Perry Molema announce his passing at Hotel Dieu, Windsor, on Saturday December 22nd, 2012. Perry Molema~loving and devoted husband, father and friend. Perry is the cherished son of Henry and Elisabeth Molema of Chatham. Beloved husband and best friend of Sherry. Loving father of Melissa and her fiancé Shaun Melo of Toronto, and Lindsay and her companion Dan Golas of Chatham. He is predeceased by his brother Robert. Nephew of Ina Dennekamp of Vancouver, B.C. Brother-in-law of Angie Baldwin and her husband Douglas of Toronto, Mike Ostapec and his wife Marg of Chatham, and Dan Ostapec of Toronto. Perry was employed by Aquascape Designs in Toronto and Chicago. His job incorporated his passion for travel which took him to every corner of the world. He left his mark creating beautiful water features and landscapes that can be enjoyed throughout Chatham and Canada, as well as the U.S., Europe, Egypt, Turkey and Australia. He had many hobbies and enjoyed sharing his life with his family and many friends. He was engaging and compassionate; once you knew Perry you knew you had a friend for life. One cannot choose when we leave this world, but we can choose how to live it. Perry lived his life to the fullest and touched many hearts. He will be infinitely missed and forever loved and cherished by all who knew him. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Perry's Life at The Armoury, 44 William Street N, Chatham, on Thursday December 27th gathering together from 4 to 8 p.m. Arrangements entrusted to the Alexander & Houle Funeral Home, 245 Wellington West, Chatham, 519-352-2710. Friends planning an expression of remembrance are asked to consider the Carlo Rossini Memorial Diabetes Foundation and the London Regional Cancer Program. On-line condolences may be left at www.alexanderfuneralhome.ca

Celebration of Perry's Life: Thursday December 27th, 2012
Gathering Together From: 4 to 8 p.m.
Held At: The Armoury, 44 William Street N, Chatham
Donations: Carlo Rossini Memorial Diabetes Foundation and the London Regional Cancer Program

Don Schnoor, former vice president and national sales manager of Aquatic Gardens and Koi Co. Inc, recently joined Aquascape, Inc. as northeast territory sales manager. Don began his career building and maintaining water features in his family’s retail pond business in 1986, which was located on the farm where he grew up in New Jersey.

Along with his extensive experience in the construction, maintenance, retail, and distribution aspects of the industry, Don was also the U.S. sales and marketing representative for Mag Noy, Ltd., setting up distribution for imported Israeli Koi throughout the United States.

“We’re honored to have Don join our ranks,” stated Sue Soderberg, National Sales Director for Aquascape.  “He brings a great depth of knowledge of the water feature industry and associated products to this position with Aquascape. Don has built tremendous relationships within the water feature industry over time and we’re very fortunate to add his water gardening and landscape design skill level and background to our team.”

Schnoor will provide training and support to wholesale and retail customers in the northeast region.

Aquascape has released the second generation of its IonGen™ System, an electronic water clarifier solution for ponds, Pondless® Waterfalls and decorative water features. The new IonGen™ G2 is simple to install, safe for fish and plants, not toxic to any animals that may drink from the water feature, and eliminates unsightly water conditions without the use of chemicals.

The IonGen™ G2 automatic control panel sends signals that slowly dissolve a replaceable, copper probe. This unique combination of metal ions released into the water improves water quality, clarity and drastically reduces the need for traditional pond chemicals. IonGen™ G2 improvements include:

• Easier-to-read digital display panel.
• Greater ability to withstand outdoor elements.
• Enhanced design of the flow chamber and probe which reduces the chance of the probe bars clogging, thereby lowering maintenance.
• Tool-free probe installation.
• Keyed slot inside the flow chamber for easy, accurate installation of the probe.

“We’ve taken performance feedback from customers to make improvements on an already great product,” states Dave Kelly, vice president of product development for Aquascape. “The original IonGen™ can be easily upgraded to the new G2 control panel using the IonGen™ conversion probe wire, allowing the IonGen™ G2 panel to connect to the original style probe.”

For information on where to buy, click here.

St. Charles, IL – Aquascape, Inc, the leading innovator and manufacturer of pond products and supplies, debuts its new smartphone app designed for pond and garden enthusiasts. The Aquascape app offers water gardening tips and information, divided into 5 easy-to-use sections. Notable features include: 

• Hundreds of high quality water photos including landscape transformations, fish, aquatic plants, and beautiful outdoor living spaces.
• Latest news on Aquascape pond products and events.
• How-to videos on pond installation, maintenance, fish and plant care.
• Water gardening articles that cover fish and plant care, water quality, design tips, seasonal maintenance, and more.
• Online store that showcases a variety of pond supplies.

“The Aquascape app is like a miniature version of our website right at your fingertips,” states Greg Wittstock, founder and CEO of Aquascape. “Our goal is to provide useful information on all things related to water gardening on a convenient, easy-to-use mobile device.”

The Aquascape App is available for Apple’s iPhone and Google Android-based smartphones. To preview and download the app, visit the iTunes Store or Android Market, then search for Aquascape Pond app.

For more information about Aquascape products and services, please visit our website at www.aquascapeinc.com or call 866.877.6637 (US) or 866.766.3426 (CANADA).

• Container Water Garden Filter, for containers holding up to 50 gallons of water
• Pond Filter Urn, ideal for providing filtration for smaller ponds or container water gardens
• Newly designed IonGen™ System, an electronic water clarifier that reduces maintenance
• Evolutionary, second generation line of consumer water garden pumps
• Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete, decorative fountains
• LED Fountain Accent Light, creating drama for nighttime viewing
• Granite Transition Garden Fountain, providing two fountains in one
• Activated Pond Carbon, for clarifying water and reducing odor
• Pond Air 2 and 4, providing beneficial, energy-efficient aeration
• Koi Krunchies, a hand-feeding treat for koi and goldfish

Aquascape, Inc. and its network of Certified Aquascape Contractors (CAC) designed and installed a third, outdoor water feature at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium on August 18th, 2011. Under the direction of Ed Beaulieu, chief sustainability officer for Aquascape, the pond, stream, and wetlands area was devised to serve as a hands-on training event for CACs to earn continuing education units.

“The design philosophy behind the pond and stream project is to mimic a native Illinois stream with the associated flora and fauna,” says Beaulieu. “This water feature is not merely decorative but will serve as one of the Shedd’s exhibits and is meant to educate visitors about the importance of native habitats and how we can all make a positive impact on our environment.”

The 30’x15’ pond includes a 1,500 gallon sustainable reservoir, which allows operation of the water feature for extended periods without rainfall. The 50-foot stream and waterfalls were created with large, weathered limestone, giving the feature an aged appearance while providing a role in water chemistry as the stream receives dissolved minerals from the stone. Two hydraulically engineered, 9PL energy-efficient pumps power the stream with a combined flow rate of 12,000 gallons per hour.

An oversized wetland was included in the design to serve as a large, aquatic planting bed to introduce native aquatic plants to the system. The wetland filter incorporates Aquascape’s patented Snorkel® Vault and Centipede® Module technology, thereby providing optimum water quality.  

Visitors to the Shedd Aquarium can interact with the water feature, located at the bus drop-off location on Solidarity Drive. For more information on the Shedd Aquarium, visit www.sheddaquarium.org.

Hundreds of distributors, contractors, and retailers from around the world came together for education, networking, and fun at the industry’s premier water gardening event, Pondemonium® 2011, held August 18th -21st in St. Charles, IL. This year’s theme was “Building the Future Together” and offered workshops and hands-on training sessions designed to instruct attendees about effective, economical ways to grow their business.

The event kicked off with an advanced Build-a-Pond training session held at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium, the third water feature installed at this historic landmark by Aquascape and its network of Certified Aquascape Contractors. The new 30’x15’ pond includes a 1,500 gallon sustainable reservoir, a 50-foot stream and wetlands area with aquatic planting bed. This newest water feature will educate visitors about the importance of native habitats and how everyone can make a positive impact on our environment. Capping the evening was a waterfall ribbon-cutting ceremony with dinner at the Shedd Aquarium’s outside terrace.

Friday’s classroom sessions started with keynote presentations from Greg Wittstock, CEO and Founder of Aquascape, Inc. and John Stanley, retail industry expert. Greg’s presentation, “Building the Future Together” focused on plugging your business into the philosophies and ideologies with water features that appeal to today’s new consumer, while John’s presentation, “Water: Make it Your Future to Have a Future” highlighted what’s being done to make water features vogue and how to leverage the past to build your business today and for the future.

New to Pondemonium® this year were “Cup of Coffee” roundtable discussions, led by a variety of water feature contractors and retailers on topics ranging from “Making Home Shows Profitable” to “Creative Construction Projects” to “Selling Your Passion” and more. Attendees could choose from over 60 discussions in which to participate before heading into classroom workshops on Friday and Saturday.

Networking events were offered throughout Pondemonium® and included a trip to Ball Horticultural Company for dinner and private tour of the expansive gardens. In addition, a coffee bar and beer garden at Aqualand, corporate headquarters of Aquascape, afforded opportunities for socializing and idea-swapping. A standard Build-a-Pond, pond tour, awards ceremony and annual Blow-Out Bash rounded out the agenda for 2011.

During the awards ceremony, Aquascape recognized customers who displayed one or more of the company’s core values of Character, Team, Win-4, and Fun. In addition, 3 recipients were chosen for special awards never before offered.

•  Tony Sargeant of Aquatic Creations in Grantville, GA was awarded 2011 Businessman of the Year by Greg Wittstock.
• Chip and Sue DuBois of Chips Landscaping in Greenfield Center, NY were awarded 2011 Conservation/Sustainability Award by Ed Beaulieu, chief sustainability officer for Aquascape, Inc.
• BJ Linger of BJL Aquascapes in Oceanport, NJ was awarded Artist of the Year/Workmanship Award by Brian Helfrich, construction manager for Aquascape, Inc.

Providing unique, conservation landscaping solutions that support water conservation efforts, Aquascape, Inc. will celebrate the completion of two outdoor sustainable waterfall features at Shedd Aquarium with a ribbon cutting ceremony Aug. 18.

The self-sustaining Pondless® Waterfalls were installed over the last two years alongside Shedd’s north outdoor terrace and East Solidarity Drive, welcoming visitors entering the building. The ribbon cutting, led by Aquascape Founder and CEO Greg Wittstock will take place at 6 p.m. on the aquarium’s outdoor terrace.
 
“It’s an honor to partner with Shedd Aquarium to provide interactive water features for the public to enjoy,” said Ed Beaulieu, chief sustainability officer for Aquascape. “We’re both committed to conserving Earth’s most precious resource through public education and increased awareness of sustainable methods. These ecosystem water features are just one great way for guests to see what they themselves can do in their own backyards to help.”

A third waterfall is set to also break ground earlier that day near the bus drop-off location on Solidarity Drive. Certified Aquascape Contractors from across the nation will participate in the installation during Pondemonium®, Aquascape’s premier annual training event. The public is welcome to watch the building process throughout the day.

Aquascape, Inc. announces its new Pond Fish Vitamin Treat, complete with a revolutionary new application formula and scientifically designed to keep pond fish looking their absolute best. Each depression of the pump top bottle creates a small worm-like looking treat for your pond fish.

“Our goal was to create a new and fun way of getting your fish to eat vitamins,” states Scott Rhodes, director of product marketing for Aquascape, Inc. “With Aquascape’s Pond Fish Vitamin Treat, you can create cool and nutritious worm-like snacks for your pond fish to enjoy!”

Aquascape Pond Fish Vitamin Treat increases appetite and vitality, enhances natural colors of the fish, and stimulates breeding.  Pond and Fish Vitamin Treat includes vitamins, nutrients, lipids and garlic, used for centuries as a health supplement and recently as a control for internal and external parasites.

For information on Aquascape products, visit our product catalog page.

Aquascape introduces its new Pond and Landscape LED Light Kit for creating beautiful, nighttime focal points in water gardens or traditional landscapes.  The small, compact design allows for easy installation in even the tightest spots.

 “We’re excited about our Pond and Landscape LED Light Kit which is preassembled and pre-wired, making installation a snap. Simply plug in the transformer and the lights are ready to go,” claims Dave Kelly, Vice President of Product Management for Aquascape, Inc. “What’s more, the waterproof design of the LED light fixture makes the unit extremely versatile, allowing it to be submerged underwater, as well as used alongside the water to highlight waterfall cascades, fountains, or even plants and trees surrounding the water feature.”

The kit is listed at $109.98 MSRP and includes 3 single-watt LED light fixtures. Each fixture includes a high-output LED light combined with an optical lens, providing an extremely powerful light output for such a small fixture. Also included is a built-in photocell that automatically controls the lights, turning the fixtures on at dusk, and off at dawn.

Aquascape LED lights use approximately 80-90% less electricity and last 10 times longer than their halogen counterparts. This is especially advantageous in a water garden setting where a submerged light can be difficult to access.

To view a video on the Pond and Landscape LED Light Kit, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_44hzKsSWk. To place an order, log onto http://www.aquascapeinc.com/shop-online.

Colleen Heitzler was recently promoted from her position as Chief Operating Officer to President for Aquascape, Inc. in St. Charles, IL.  Heitzler will focus on building a solid foundation to continue to grow Aquascape’s profitability.

Heitzler began her career with Aquascape in 2001 as Controller. Her wealth of knowledge and experience quickly resulted in Colleen being named Chief Financial Officer, and most recently Chief Operating Officer.

“Aquascape is a forward-minded company with an exciting history of market development and industry leadership,” said Heitzler. “There is great deal of passion and talent on the team at Aquascape and it is a privilege to transition into the role of President.”

“Colleen has proven her enthusiasm, loyalty, and savvy as a leader in our company and the industry,” shared Greg Wittstock, CEO and Founder of Aquascape. “I’m proud to have her on our team in this extended role.”