The International Organization for natural bathing waters (IOB) was founded on 29 September 2009 on the occasion of the 5th International Congress swimming in Merano. It is an umbrella organization: 12 national swimming pond organizations are currently united to form the international federation. In 2011 IOB represents more than 600 individuals and companies that deal primarily with planning and construction of natural swimming pools. It is the perfect place to meet the experts in the area of natural swimming ponds.