What happened
In late August 2026 the federal government finalized a plan to cut Colorado River water use through 2028, aimed at stopping the slide in storage at the river’s biggest reservoirs. KOLD News 13 reported on August 26 that Arizona takes the largest hit of the three lower basin states.
The numbers: Arizona’s supply drops by 760,000 acre-feet from its 2.8 million acre-foot allotment. Across Arizona, California and Nevada, the cuts total 1.25 million acre-feet, so Arizona carries more than half. KOLD noted the cuts match what the lower basin states had offered.
Tucson gets much of its water through the Central Arizona Project (CAP) canal, which carries Colorado River water. Still, a University of Arizona researcher told KOLD that he did not expect household effects, and the station reported that Tucson Water has at least six years of supplies in reserve. The likely local impact is on cost: KOLD reported that rates in large cities like Tucson could go up. Experts also pointed to more conservation and water recycling, and warned that conditions after 2028 could get worse without better snowpack or a broader deal among the states.
What this means for your pool
- No rules against pools. Nothing in the federal plan restricts home pool fills or limits residential use. Tucson’s banked supplies are there to cushion exactly this kind of cut.
- Expect water to keep getting pricier. Tucson already approved 3.5% yearly rate increases through 2030. Supply pressure is one more reason to plan a water-smart pool and yard.
- A cover is the biggest saver. Evaporation is where most pool water goes in Tucson. Tucson’s 2024 pool code now requires a cover on new and remodeled pools before final inspection, and using it is the easiest way to save.
- The yard matters as much as the pool. Swapping thirsty grass for desert plants, drip irrigation or synthetic turf can make a real dent in your home’s total water use.
- Avoid draining. Steady chemistry and a good filter mean fewer drain-and-refills.
What we’re doing
We design pools to be efficient from the start. That means sizing the pool to how you will really use it, planning shade and wind protection, and making room for a cover. We also install turf, landscaping and irrigation so the whole backyard uses less water. If you are weighing a pool and worried about water, our pool cost guide and custom pool construction page explain how we plan a project, or call us at (520) 342-8335.
Source: KOLD News 13
Put this story to work
Planning your own project? See our Pool Landscaping, Turf & Irrigation in Tucson and Custom Pool Construction in Tucson.
Questions pool owners are asking
Will the Colorado River cuts stop me from filling a pool in Tucson?
Nothing in the plan limits home water use or pool fills. Experts quoted by KOLD said households should not see immediate effects, and Tucson Water has at least six years of stored supplies. The bigger near-term effect is likely on water rates.
How big are Arizona's Colorado River cuts?
Under the federal plan finalized in August 2026, Arizona's supply drops by 760,000 acre-feet from its 2.8 million acre-foot allotment. That is more than half of the 1.25 million acre-feet in total cuts shared with California and Nevada.
How can I make my pool use less water?
Use a cover, keep the water level and chemistry steady so you rarely drain, fix leaks quickly and plan shade or wind breaks near the pool. Desert landscaping around the pool also lowers the yard's total water use.
This is our summary and commentary. Read the original story at KOLD News 13.