Method for aerated biofiltration

A method for removing contaminants from a body of water comprising in combination:

• positioning a filter means in the water, the filter means having discrete tubular channels therethrough forming surfaces for the support of biological agents for assisting in the cleaning of the water in which it is positioned;
• providing a frame assembly having generally horizontal tubular upper and lower frame members and generally vertical tubular intermediate frame members joining the upper and lower frame members thereby constituting a three-dimensional generally cubic shape, the tubular members adapted for receiving and supporting the filter means in the water, the tubular members being hollow and operatively interconnected for the passage of fluid therethrough and with a first opening operatively associated with an upper frame member for coupling with a source of pressurized fluid and with a second opening associated with lower frame member for coupling with diffuser means for effecting discharge of the pressurized fluid from the source of pressurized fluid upwardly through the water and across the surfaces of the filter means for cleaning of the water by the biological agents supported on the surface of the filter means;
• effecting a flow of fluid through the frame assembly and filter means for effecting the removal of contaminants from the water;
• constraining the flow of fluid through the filter means along paths defined by the tubular channels for increased contact between the fluid and the filter means;
• and
• securing a float ring with respect to the frame assembly and being horizontally disposed for providing the necessary buoyancy for maintaining the upper surface of the frame assembly adjacent to the surface of the water and with the lower surface of the frame assembly spaced from the bottom of the reservoir, the float ring being located to receive therein the fluid flowed through the filter media.