Conserva Irrigation is a leading irrigation services franchise dedicated to water conservation and efficient irrigation solutions. The brand provides residential and commercial customers with professional, environmentally responsible irrigation system installation, maintenance and repair. 

1. What Is the Brand Overview for Conserva Irrigation?

About the Brand

Conserva Irrigation was founded in 2010 by Russ Jundt, a passionate advocate for water conservation, to address the excessive water waste in traditional irrigation systems. The brand emerged with a mission to provide smart irrigation solutions that maximize efficiency while maintaining lush, healthy landscapes. As part of Empower Brands, Conserva Irrigation has grown into a nationally recognized franchise with strong franchisee support and a proven business model.

Mission: Conserva Irrigation is committed to transforming the irrigation industry through environmentally responsible practices. The company’s mission is to conserve water while delivering high-quality irrigation solutions that enhance landscapes and improve efficiency.

Vision: Conserva Irrigation envisions a future where sustainable water use is the industry standard. By integrating cutting-edge technology and industry best practices, the brand aims to lead the irrigation sector in conservation, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Unique Selling Points (USPs)

  • Water Conservation Focus: Reduces irrigation water waste by up to 60%.
  • Proven Business Model: Backed by Empower Brands, offering stability and scalability.
  • Innovative Technology: Uses proprietary System Efficiency Score® (SES) and Commercial Site Assessment™ (CSA) to optimize irrigation systems.
  • Eco-Friendly Solutions: Partners with manufacturers to provide high-efficiency components and smart controllers.
  • National Accounts and Partnerships: Established relationships with major property management companies and national clients.
  • Strong Franchise Support: Comprehensive training, marketing assistance and operational guidance.

2. What Are the Franchise Opportunity Details?

Why Franchise With Conserva Irrigation?

  • Thriving and Essential Industry: The irrigation sector is part of the multi-billion-dollar landscaping industry, with increasing demand for sustainable solutions.
  • No Irrigation Experience Required: Franchisees receive full training and ongoing support.
  • Scalable Business Model: Ability to expand operations within exclusive territories.
  • Comprehensive Training and Support: Includes in-depth technical training, marketing strategies and lead generation assistance.
  • Cross-Promotion Opportunities: Access to the broader Empower Brands network for additional customer acquisition.

Available Territories

Conserva Irrigation is actively expanding across the United States, with prime franchise opportunities in key markets, including:

  • Colorado: Denver, Fort Collins
  • Iowa: Des Moines
  • Wisconsin: Madison
  • Missouri: St. Louis
  • Florida: Orlando, The Villages, Daytona, Miami, Tallahassee, Panama City Beach, Pensacola
  • Alabama: Mobile
  • Louisiana: New Orleans
  • Georgia: Savannah, Columbus
  • New Mexico: Albuquerque
  • California: San Diego, Los Angeles, San Jose, San Francisco

For a full list of available markets, visit Conserva Irrigation's website.

Investment Overview

Initial Costs: The initial investment for a Conserva Irrigation franchise ranges from $84,800 to $110,000. These costs break down as follows:

Type of Expenditure

Min

Max

Initial Franchise Fee

$49,500

$49,500

Travel & Living Expenses While Training

$2,000

$3,000

Tools & Equipment

$2,000

$5,000

Computer Hardware & Software

$800

$2,000

Inventory

$5,000

$7,500

Trade Show Booth

$2,500

$2,500

Storage Facility for Inventory & Equipment

$0

$500

Vehicle

$3,000

$10,000

Vehicle Signage & Outfitting

$2,500

$5,000

Initial Marketing Expenses

$10,000

$15,000

Additional Funds (3 Months)

$7,500

$10,000

Initial Franchise Fee: The franchise fee for a Conserva Irrigation territory of 300,000 people or less is $49,500. For territories exceeding 300,000 people, there is a charge of $0.165 for each additional person. The franchise fee is payable in full upon signing the franchise agreement.

Ongoing Fees: Conserva Irrigation franchisees are responsible for the following ongoing payments and fees:

Type of FeeAmountDue Date
Monthly Branding Royalty

For a period of 24 months beginning on the Operational Start Date of your Irrigation Business (as defined in the Franchise Agreement) you must pay us a Monthly Branding Royalty based on calendar year-to-date Gross Revenue equal to:

$0 - $499,999: 8%

$500,000 - $999,999: 7%

$1,000,000 - $1,499,999: 6%

$1,500,000+: 5%

Beginning on the 24-month anniversary of the Operational Start Date, the Monthly Branding Royalty payable will be equal to the greater of: (a) the amount described in the info above, or $1,000

Payable by EFT monthly on or before the 10th of each month
Individual Advertising InvestmentMinimum $40,000 per calendar year for one Territory; minimum $60,000 if you are granted two contiguous Territories. A minimum of $20,000 for each additional contiguous territory.Payable to third parties at times set by you
National Branding & Marketing Fee 1.5% on the first $1,500,000 of Gross Revenues in any calendar year. No National Branding & Marketing Fee is due on Gross Revenues over $1,500,000 in any calendar yearPayable by EFT monthly on or before the 10th of each month
Digital Marketing Fee$300Monthly

ROI Potential: According to Conserva Irrigation’s 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), franchisees operating for the entirety of FY 2023 reported the following revenue:

Revenue

Min

Max

Average

Median

More Than $1,000,000 (13)

$1,014,154

$3,805,289

$1,548,421

$1,548,421

$500,000 - $1,000,000 (11)

$508,665

$934,002

$659,727

$659,727

$250,000 - $500,000 (21)

$251,611

$473,898

$352,471

$352,471

Less Than $250,000 (14)

$21,499

$237,183

$167,009

$167,009

Total (59)

$21,499

$3,805,289

$629,262

$629,262

3. What Franchisee Support Does Conserva Irrigation Provide?

Training Programs

Conserva Irrigation provides an extensive training program that equips franchisees with everything they need to operate successfully, including:

  • Initial Training: Hands-on training covering irrigation system installation, repair and maintenance.
  • Onboarding Support: Business setup, licensing guidance and territory launch assistance.
  • Field Training: Real-world experience working with irrigation systems.
  • Ongoing Education: Webinars, in-person workshops and advanced certifications to stay up to date with industry innovations.

Operational Support

Franchisees receive dedicated support to streamline operations and drive growth, including:

  • Marketing Assistance: National advertising campaigns, SEO strategies and lead generation programs.
  • Business Development Coaching: One-on-one support to help franchisees scale their operations.
  • Customer Acquisition Strategies: Access to exclusive partnerships and national accounts.
  • Networking Opportunities: Annual franchisee conferences and regional meetings for peer collaboration.

Technology and Tools

Conserva Irrigation provides advanced software and tools to optimize franchise operations, including:

  • System Efficiency Score (SES): Proprietary technology to assess irrigation efficiency.
  • Business Management Software: Scheduling, customer relationship management (CRM) and financial tracking tools.
  • Smart Irrigation Technology: Integration of weather-based controllers and high-efficiency components to enhance service offerings.

4. What Are the Franchise Requirements for Conserva Irrigation?

Eligibility Criteria

  • Minimum Liquid Capital: Varies by market; financial qualifications are reviewed during the discovery process.
  • Experience: No prior irrigation experience required; ideal candidates have business acumen, leadership skills and a commitment to sustainability.

Operational Commitments

  • Full-Time or Semi-Absentee Ownership: Franchisees can be hands-on or hire a team to manage daily operations.
  • Territory Management: Franchisees must oversee operations within their assigned territory, ensuring quality service and customer satisfaction.
  • Customer Service Focus: Building strong relationships with residential and commercial clients to drive recurring revenue.

Funding Assistance

  • SBA Loan Assistance: Conserva Irrigation helps franchisees explore Small Business Administration (SBA) loan options.
  • Third-Party Financing: Partnerships with lenders to assist with startup costs.
  • Discounts for Veterans and First Responders: Special incentives are available for military veterans, first responders, and educators.

5. Are There Franchisee Success Stories?

"While exploring different business opportunities, irrigation was last on our list of potential industries -- as I'm sure it is for most people. But becoming a franchisee of Conserva ended up being the best business decision we ever made. The success we've experienced in just three years has far surpassed all of our expectations, and we're more excited than ever to see what the next three years can bring. The support we've seen from both the growing network of franchisees and the corporate team at Outdoor Living Brands is truly unmatched. We've been provided with invaluable resources, insight from experienced industry professionals and best practices from the very beginning. You can't ask for a better "business in a box" than Conserva Irrigation."

Juan and Ellie Lamonica

“Conserva is great for a number of reasons. I enjoy facing the daily challenges of business ownership knowing I have an amazing team as well as outstanding support from the Franchisor. Getting out of an office to troubleshoot, problem-solve and interact with our awesome customer base is so much better than being parked behind a desk all day! We’re also in an industry that’s growing organically so I’m very excited about the long-term potential to build a significant business.”

Jeff Labrecque

“We love what Conserva Irrigation stands for, and we couldn't be happier to be part of it. The corporate support and camaraderie among the franchisees are by far the best in its class and most important, Conserva Irrigation is helping to eliminate the water waste issue that our planet deals with every day. We are saving our clients money and we're using eco-friendly, water-saving techniques to help our clientele enjoy their beautiful landscape. It's a win for all parties involved, from an environmental and economic standpoint.”

Vanesa Ellis

You can find more testimonials from Conserva Irrigation franchisees here.

6. What Is the Market Potential for Irrigation?

The irrigation industry has grown at a 0.9% CAGR over the past five years, reaching $99.9 billion in 2024. While high interest rates previously slowed residential demand, recent reductions have boosted growth.

Competitor Analysis

Conserva Irrigation stands out in the irrigation industry due to its exclusive focus on water conservation and sustainability. Key competitors include:

  • Rain Bird & Hunter Industries: Primarily product manufacturers, lacking the service-based business model of Conserva.
  • The Grounds Guys & U.S. Lawns: Broad landscaping franchises that offer irrigation as an add-on service rather than a specialized focus.
  • Local Independent Irrigation Contractors: Typically lack the brand recognition, training, and national partnerships that Conserva provides.

7. What Is the Application Process for Conserva Irrigation Franchisees?

The five steps to owning a Conserva Irrigation franchise include: 

  1. Let's Chat: An informal conversation to understand your passions and see if Conserva Irrigation is the right fit for you.
  2. Collaboration: A deeper discussion about the business model, where you learn more about Conserva, and the team learns more about you.
  3. FDD Review and Capital Planning: Review the FDD and discuss financial planning and investment requirements.
  4. Validation: Speak with existing franchisees to gain insights into their experiences and determine if the business aligns with your goals.
  5. Confirmation Day: Meet the support team, finalize details, and prepare to launch your Conserva Irrigation franchise.

For more information or to get started, you can fill out the online contact form on Conserva Irrigation’s website.

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Disclaimer: This content is for information only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained on this site constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction. 

All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the email constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.

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Victoria Campisi

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Victoria Campisi

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