Pool News
Texas Drought Puts New Focus on Pool Water Use
Texas drought conditions have put a new focus on pool water use in light of increasing water restrictions in the lone star state.
Drought is shaping up to be one of the defining issues for the pool industry this season in Texas.
According to the latest drought monitoring data, over 80% of the state is currently experiencing at least some level of drought conditions. Large portions of South and Central Texas are facing severe, extreme, or exceptional drought classifications — the highest levels on the scale.
As temperatures begin to climb and pool season approaches, the conversation around water use is starting to intensify. For the pool industry, that discussion always brings a mix of concern, confusion, and opportunity.
Texas consistently ranks among the top states in the country for residential pool ownership. Warm weather, long swimming seasons, and rapid suburban growth have made backyard pools a staple in many communities across the state.
But when water becomes scarce, swimming pools often get pulled into the broader public debate about conservation.
Drought Puts Swimming Pools In The Crosshairs
When drought conditions worsen, municipalities typically introduce staged conservation measures designed to reduce water consumption.
These restrictions usually start with things like limiting lawn irrigation schedules or restricting car washing. As conditions tighten, additional measures can follow. In some areas, that can eventually include limits on filling decorative water features, restrictions on new pool fills, or guidelines about maintaining proper water levels without waste.
Even when pools are not specifically targeted by regulation, they often become part of the public conversation simply because they are visible.
A full backyard pool can stand in stark contrast to brown lawns and dry landscapes. As a result, pools sometimes become symbolic in drought discussions, even though their actual water usage patterns are often misunderstood.
The Reality of Pool Water Use
One of the most persistent misconceptions about pools is that they constantly consume large volumes of water.
In reality, once a pool is filled, it functions largely as a contained system. While the initial fill of a typical residential pool can require roughly 15,000 to 30,000 gallons of water, ongoing water use is primarily driven by evaporation and minor maintenance top-offs rather than continuous consumption.
Annual replacement water for many residential pools often falls somewhere in the range of 10,000 to 20,000 gallons depending on climate, wind, and whether a pool cover is used.
By comparison, landscape irrigation—particularly traditional turf lawns—can consume far more water over the same period. Studies comparing water use have found that lawns of similar square footage may require tens of thousands of gallons annually, and in some cases over 160,000 gallons per year depending on climate and irrigation practices.
Fiction vs Reality
In reality, once a pool is filled, it operates as a contained system. Water loss typically occurs through evaporation, splash-out, or minor backwashing depending on the filtration system being used.
For most residential pools, evaporation is the primary factor driving water replacement.
While initial fills can require a substantial amount of water, ongoing annual replacement volumes are generally far lower than many people assume. Compared to irrigation systems that run daily throughout the summer, a properly maintained pool can represent a relatively stable water footprint.
Still, during periods of drought, perception often matters as much as the numbers. When water shortages intensify, swimming pools frequently become part of the broader conservation conversation.
The Impact on New Pool Construction
For pool builders across Texas, the concern is equally measured. It’s undeniable that drought headlines can affect customer psychology. Even before restrictions are implemented, potential buyers may begin asking questions.
Will they be allowed to fill the pool once construction is complete?
Could new restrictions limit how the pool is used?
And in the middle of a drought, how will neighbors perceive it?
These concerns can slow down decision-making for homeowners who are already evaluating the cost of a pool project.
Texas heat still makes backyard pools extremely attractive, but uncertainty around water policy can stretch sales timelines or delay projects in certain regions. Builders may also see an increase in questions about water-efficient designs, filtration systems, and evaporation control.
Service Companies May See a Different Effect
While drought can create trepidation for new construction, service companies often experience a different dynamic.
When water becomes scarce, pool owners tend to become more cautious about losing it. Small leaks that might have been ignored during wetter years suddenly become urgent issues. Equipment that wastes water through inefficient operation draws greater scrutiny.
Industry veteran Harold Tapley says the industry has seen that pattern play out before. After decades working on the West Coast—where drought conditions and water policy have long shaped how pools are built and maintained—Tapley has watched how quickly regulators begin examining water use across all sectors, including backyard pools.
How The Industry Is Responding
“As drought conditions intensify in Central Texas and across the Colorado River Basin, water policies could be impacted,” Tapley explained. “I can tell you that when Nevada experienced drought conditions, places like Las Vegas began limiting new pool construction to a maximum of 600 square feet. When California experienced drought conditions, certain counties paused pool construction permits for a while. Water conservation concerns are real and always an important topic within the pool industry.”
Tapley advised that one of the areas most likely to draw attention during drought conditions is the routine maintenance of the pool itself. Practices such as backwashing filters or cleaning cartridges can discharge large amounts of treated water that must then be replaced with a potable supply. As water agencies increasingly look for ways to reduce waste, those processes are becoming a greater part of the conservation conversation.
Tapley, a member of the PHTA-13 commission on Water Conservation Efficiency, says newer water recovery technologies are beginning to offer a way to dramatically reduce those losses.
“Backwashing in particular, discharges treated water that must then be replaced, and cartridge filter cleaning can waste significant amounts of water,” Tapley said. “Certified reuse systems can now recover 80–99% of that water—transforming what was once waste into measurable conservation.”
Tapley indicated that in challenging times, when drought restrictions come into play, service professionals may see increased demand for:
• Leak detection
• Equipment optimization
• Water level management
• Water reuse systems
• Filtration efficiency improvements
Homeowners want reassurance that their pools are operating responsibly and not wasting water unnecessarily. For service companies, positioning themselves as water management experts can become an important differentiator during drought conditions.
Texas and the Backyard Pool Market
Texas has one of the largest residential pool markets in the country. Major metropolitan areas such as Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio continue to see strong demand for backyard pools due to population growth, climate conditions, and lifestyle preferences. But the scale of that market means that drought conditions can have wide-ranging effects across the industry.
Builders, service companies, retailers, and equipment manufacturers all operate within a broader ecosystem that depends on consumer confidence and stable infrastructure. When water supply concerns begin to dominate local headlines, that confidence can shift.
Potential Regulatory Responses
If drought conditions persist or intensify, expect municipalities to begin introducing additional conservation measures.
Possible actions might include:
• Limits on pool refilling during certain hours or days
• Temporary delays for filling newly constructed pools
• Stricter enforcement of visible water waste
• Increased public messaging about responsible water use
Historically, most municipalities attempt to strike a balance between conservation goals and practical realities. Swimming pools are rarely among the largest drivers of municipal water use compared to agricultural irrigation or landscape watering. However, because pools are highly visible, they often become part of the public conversation when drought conditions intensify.
How the Industry Can Respond
For the pool industry, drought conditions highlight the importance of education. Pool professionals can emphasize design choices that help reduce water loss, including:
• Pool covers that reduce evaporation
• Efficient filtration systems that minimize backwash waste
• Automatic water level controls
• Smart monitoring technologies that detect leaks early
Service companies can also play a role by helping homeowners maintain pools responsibly. Regular equipment inspections, proper water chemistry management, and leak detection services all contribute to minimizing unnecessary water loss.
Communicating these practices clearly to customers helps reinforce the idea that pools can be managed responsibly even during periods of water stress.
Innovation and Adaptation
Water scarcity often accelerates innovation. Manufacturers are continuing to develop technologies that improve efficiency across the pool ecosystem. Variable-speed pumps, smarter automation systems, and improved filtration technology all contribute to more responsible water and energy use.
As drought conditions become more common across parts of the country, with many experts linking the trend to climate change, these technologies are likely to become standard expectations rather than optional upgrades. Builders and service companies that stay ahead of these trends will be better positioned to navigate future drought cycles.
Looking Ahead
Drought conditions in Texas may fluctuate throughout the year depending on rainfall patterns and seasonal weather shifts. But the current situation serves as a reminder of how closely the pool industry is tied to broader environmental conditions.
Water is the foundation of the entire business. When water becomes scarce, it affects not only regulations but also consumer perceptions, purchasing behavior, and long-term planning.
Overall, the Texas pool market remains strong, fueled by the state’s climate and outdoor lifestyle. New pool construction has cooled slightly over the past three years following the pandemic surge — a trend we recently explored in our analysis of Texas pool permit data. Even so, demand remains healthy. What may change this season is the conversation around water management as drought conditions intensify across the state.
For industry professionals, those conversations represent both a challenge and an opportunity. The companies that succeed will be the ones that help homeowners understand how to enjoy their pools while also managing water responsibly.
Poolside Adventures and Landmark Aquatic have joined forces to bring big-impact attractions with a small footprint to aquatic facilities across the country. The partnership pairs Poolside Adventures’ AquaClimb®, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX attractions with Landmark’s expansive nationwide reach and proven expertise in aquatic facility design, construction, renovation, and maintenance.
Poolside Adventures attractions add excitement to aquatic facilities without a major renovation because they anchor directly to an existing pool deck with no water hookups, special tools or added concrete and reinforcement. In fact, the modular AquaClimb® walls can start with one section and grow with budgets. The AquaZip’N® is rapidly becoming a new, safer alternative to diving boards as it only requires four feet of water depth, can be installed in just a few hours, and has a throughput of six riders a minute.
“Some municipalities can’t afford a new water park or perhaps cannot renovate their pool this year,” said Cherie Moy, VP of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships for Poolside Adventures. “Our products are an easy answer: a big impact with a small footprint, adding an ‘active attraction’ that makes the pool more exciting.”
“Landmark has a large footprint across the country, and we’re especially excited about their reach into HOA communities, a growing market where our partnership has already led to multiple installations,” said Moy. “Together, we will help clients find the right fit for their space, their budget and to add action and adventure to their pool experience.”
Matt Cappello, Vice President of Design at Landmark Aquatic agrees saying, “We’re excited to collaborate with Poolside Adventures to promote the versatility, ease of installation and entertainment value their products will bring to more pools across the country.”
About Landmark
Since 1967, Landmark Aquatic has helped communities and organizations bring complex aquatic facilities to life and keep them performing. Today, we are the nation’s largest integrated commercial aquatics platform, providing design, construction, renovation, restoration, and maintenance services nationwide. Our construction-led expertise and long-term service capabilities give customers one trusted partner across every stage of a facility’s lifecycle. For the life of your pool. Learn more at www.landmarkaquatic.com.
About Poolside Adventures
For more than 20 years, Poolside Adventures’ flagship AquaClimb® has led the market for poolside climbing walls. Its full line, including the AquaClimb® Luxe, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX, delivers challenging, safe fun for swimmers of all ages. For more about Poolside Adventures visit www.aquaclimb.com.
Vic Harshman brings extensive pool building experience to key leadership role
- Decades of proven pool construction experience across Nevada, Arizona and Texas
- Previously served as Shasta Pools’ exclusive excavation contractor
- Predecessor handpicked Harshman to grow position under new leadership team
SCOTTSDALE, Arizona (October 5, 2026) – Shasta Pools, Phoenix Metro’s most recognized pool builder, named Vic Harshman as Head of Residential Construction. Harshman joins the new leadership team with more than three decades of hands-on industry experience and a long-standing relationship with the company to one of its most critical leadership roles.
Harshman has held senior construction leadership positions in Arizona and Texas, and worked closely with Shasta Pools, developing firsthand knowledge about the company’s standards, culture and customers. The appointment reflects the momentum Shasta Pools has built since its August 6 acquisition by Dansons Capital Group, Accrual Equity Partners, and Hydro Construction, and positions the full-service 60-year old pool company for continued growth.
Leadership Perspective
“Vic brings exactly the kind of no-nonsense, customer-first leadership our residential construction division needs,” said Jeff Thiessen, President, Dansons Capital Group. “His philosophy is deeply aligned with ours. Keeping customers’ needs as the foremost priority at every stage of the build process is at the center of everything we do, and Vic lives that every day.”
Harshman’s career in pool construction began at age 19, when he purchased a backhoe and launched a business digging plumbing trenches and footings. When the housing market declined in the late 1980s, he relocated to Las Vegas and began excavating swimming pools, a move that led to the creation of Harshman Excavating.
Harshman built and operated excavation businesses in Nevada, Arizona and Texas, primarily serving the pool industry, and served for a period as Shasta’s exclusive excavation contractor.
In 2012, Harshman joined A&A Manufacturing, serving pool builders across an eight-state region and growing annual sales by 10x. In 2020, he joined Keith Zars Pools in Texas as Director of Construction, where he brought together decades of ownership, leadership and industry knowledge.
A Return Rooted in Relationships
“I have always believed that strong relationships, hard work, accountability and taking care of people are the foundation of a successful business,” said Vic Harshman, Head of Residential Construction, Shasta Pools. “Shasta has been a meaningful part of my career for many years. I am genuinely excited to come back and help lead this team into a very exciting future.”
Harshman steps into the role with the full support of Dan Thiessen, Chairman of the new ownership team, and John Mortensen, the outgoing head of residential construction. Mortensen recommended Harshman for the position and will now serve as the company’s lead trainer. That transition reflects Shasta Pools’ commitment to investing in its people and preserving institutional knowledge as the organization continues to grow.
ABOUT SHASTA POOLS:
Shasta Pools is Arizona’s trusted name in custom pool building, proudly serving the Valley since 1966. For 60 years, Shasta has transformed backyards into beautiful, functional spaces where families relax, entertain and enjoy life. The company specializes in new pool construction, remodeling, pool service and landscape design with plans for expansion into the home services market to provide customers with complete home care solutions. Learn more at ShastaPools.com.
ABOUT DANSONS CAPITAL GROUP:
Dansons Capital Group, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a family-owned and family-managed investment firm built on shared values, integrity and long-term vision. The firm was established by the founders of Dansons, Inc., the company that launched and sold Pit Boss Grills. The company takes a hands-on approach, actively seeking opportunities across global markets and multiple asset classes. Its growing portfolio includes strategic real estate development holdings across multiple countries, oil drilling technologies, and limited partnership investments. Guided by a deep commitment to quality and the communities they serve, the Thiessen family leads with gratefulness for the blessings God has given them and in turn supports those less fortunate. Dansons Capital Group continues to identify and cultivate opportunities that reflect their family’s values and generational vision.
ABOUT ACCRUAL EQUITY PARTNERS:
Accrual Equity Partners (AEP) is a founder-led, privately funded private equity group built on the belief that every person, every percentage, and every product matters. This commitment, known as the “Power of One,” drives AEP’s mission to empower businesses and secure legacies across fragmented, service-based industries. AEP partners with founder-led and family-owned businesses to overcome barriers and unlock their full potential through strategic investment, operational performance enhancement, and advisory services. For more information, visit AccrualEquityPartners.com.
ABOUT HYDRO CONSTRUCTION:
Hydro Construction, LLC (HydroCon) was founded in 1986 to serve Arizona’s commercial pool construction and renovation market. Under the leadership of Curt Lonsdale, the company’s commercial pool construction division now manages some of the largest and most complex projects in the country.
Flowood, MS, October 1 – The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Ibe as Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager and Rachel Smith as Membership Marketing Manager. The two new positions strengthen NTCA’s focus on membership growth, retention, engagement, and delivering greater value to members.
“Growing and strengthening our membership is a key priority for the NTCA, and Jennifer and Rachel bring the experience and expertise to help us do that,” said Jeremy Sax, Deputy Director of NTCA. “Their complementary skills will allow us to take a more strategic approach to both membership development and the overall member experience.”
Jennifer Ibe, Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager
Ibe brings more than 10 years of experience in association events, sales, sponsorships, relationship management, and strategic growth. Most recently, she served as Director of Sponsorship and Sales for the Global Workspace Association, where she led major conferences, sponsorship development, budgets, and initiatives that increased attendance by 33% and profitability by 30%.
At the NTCA, Ibe will lead membership recruitment, retention, re-engagement, and relationship development while supporting sponsorship and partner revenue opportunities. She will also represent the NTCA at major industry events and help strengthen relationships with members and prospective members.
Ibe holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Rachel Smith, Membership Marketing Manager
Smith brings extensive association experience in membership, communications, digital engagement, and member programming. Most recently, she served as Digital Communications Manager for the Association of Electric Companies of Texas. Previously, as Director of Membership for the Texas Economic Development Council, she managed more than 1,000 members and developed programs to increase member engagement and networking. She also served as Membership Coordinator for the Texas Association of Community Health Centers, where she managed more than 5,000 members and led new-member onboarding and retention initiatives.
At NTCA, Smith will focus on member onboarding, retention campaigns, communications, digital engagement, webinars, events, and community development. She will also support membership analytics and digital initiatives aimed at strengthening the member experience.
Smith holds a B.A. in Communications with a minor in Social Justice from West Virginia Wesleyan College.
“Jennifer’s focus on relationship-building and membership development, combined with Rachel’s experience in member communications and engagement, gives us a strong team focused on every stage of the member journey,” Sax added. “We’re excited about what this means for our members and for the future growth of NTCA.”
About NTCA
Established in 1947, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone. It is widely recognized as the largest and most respected tile contractors’ association in the world. For those seeking to improve their tile business, NTCA provides unparalleled educational experiences, supportive peer interaction, unique cost-savings programs, and a commitment to help develop the skills needed to improve your work, recruit, train, and manage your employees, and ultimately, make your business more profitable. Find out more at www.tile-assn.com.
Read the Summer Issue of Pool Magazine
See more of our coverage in your search results
Pentair Names Josh Cowley Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Pentair Pool
Soake Pools Bolsters National Growth With Four Key Hires
Hayward Holdings Names New Chief Accounting Officer
Daldorado Names Marcia Gyles Director of Sales
Landmark Aquatic Brings Poolside Adventures Attractions Nationwide
Shasta Pools Hires 30-Year Builder to Head Residential Construction
Watershape University Announces Fall 2026 Session in San Diego
Marquis Celebrates 25 Years of Make-A-Wish Partnership
Las Vegas Losing Classic Fire & Water Feature – Mirage Volcano Set to Close
Keep Commercial Pools Clean With Polaris®
AquaStar Pool Products Hires New West Coast Regional Sales Manager
Water Tech Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Master Spas Continues Support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as Charity Partner of Warburton Golf Tournament
POOLCORP Joins S&P 500
Sponsored Advertisement
Pool News4 weeks agoLeslie’s Reportedly Prepares for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy as Possible Nasdaq Delisting Looms
Pool News3 weeks agoLeslie’s Files Chapter 11, Lenders Set to Take Control in Major Restructuring
Features3 weeks agoA New Era at POOLCORP: John Watwood Focuses on Customers and the Fundamentals
Pool Equipment3 weeks agoAquaLink® EDGE™ and trackr iO Signal a New Direction for Pool Automation
Press Releases4 weeks agoFSPA and PHTA Reunite Through Historic Affiliation
Pool News2 weeks agoShasta Pools Hires 30-Year Builder to Head Residential Construction
Retail3 weeks agoNasdaq to Suspend Trading in Leslie’s Stock on October 6
Manufacturer4 weeks agoCCEI Taps Benoit Masse for Sales
You must be logged in to post a comment Login