It takes more than a drought to get Texans down. After all, they've had more than their share of dry years and still managed to make it through OK. There was that seven-year drought in the 1950s, which has been called “a turning point in Texas history” that led to formation of the Texas Water Development Board. The most recent severe drought began in 2011 and as our sister brand, Pool & Spa News, reported then, the water restrictions made for challenging times. Last year, a city near Austin had banned pool permits, but would issue some if pool owners met a certain requirement.

Fortunately, things are looking up in the Lone Star State. According to the San Antonio Express-News, half the state now has emerged from drought conditions. Of course, that means the other half is still dealing with water shortages – and at least one city has a creative solution for drought-caused water restrictions. Thanks to a generous donor who’s bankrolling the drilling of a water well and related costs, City Pool in Mineral Wells, Texas, will be able to stay open this summer. Read More