Arizona Waterski Living WH AT BUYE RS SHO U LD KNOW ABO U T WATER
Arizona Water: The Bigger Picture Arizona is managing long-term drought and a Colorado River shortage, but those conditions do not mean the state is running out of water. Arizona relies on a diversified water system.
41% 18%
GROU N DWAT E R
I N -STAT E RIVE RS
36% 5%
CO LO R AD O RIVER
R ECL AIMED WATER
Sources: Arizona Department of Water Resources, Central Arizona Project, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Arizona Water Blueprint. Water data current as of September 2026.
What Does The Colorado River Shortage Actually Mean?
In Perspective
Who is Impacted?
• Tier 1 shortage in effect
PRIMARY
LIMITED
• ~512,000 acre-feet* reduction
Agriculture
Municipal (city) supply
• <8% of total statewide water use * One acre-foot of water is enough to supply approximately three homes for one year.
Not All Ski Lakes Get Their Water The Same Way. GROUND-WATER BASED LAKES These communities draw from the Harquahala groundwater basin, with more than 8 million acre-feet of groundwater. Supplied by on-site wells. • Lakeside Ski Village • Spring Mountain Ski Ranch
Sources: Arizona Department of Water Resources, Central Arizona Project, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Arizona Water Blueprint. Water data current as of September 2026.
MUNICIPAL WATER-BASED LAKES Supplied through municipal water systems that draw from multiple water sources. • Crystal Point • Playa Del Rey • Santan Lakeside
Every Lake Has Its Own Water Story. • Water structure is specific to each community. • Current shortages are not broadly impacting ski lakes. • Arizona water is diversified and actively managed.
Questions I Encourage Every Ski Lake Buyer to Ask Where does the lake’s water come from? Is it supplied by private/on-site wells or municipal water? Who owns or controls the water rights or water source? How is evaporation loss replaced? Is there a backup water source? Have there ever been restrictions on filling or maintaining the lake? Who pays for the water used to maintain the lake? Are there known long-term infrastructure or water-supply concerns? How are water quality and the lake ecosystem monitored and maintained?
Susan Talarico
Global Real Estate Advisor | REALTOR®
602.321.1693 susan.talarico@thenobleagency.com susantalarico.com waterskiarizona.com
Yes, You Can Own the Arizona Waterski Lifestyle. Just Know What You’re Buying. • Arizona is not out of water. • Current shortages are real, but their impacts are targeted. • Ski lake operations differ depending upon their water source and location. Buying a waterski property requires understanding more than a house. The lake, its water source, the community and the long-term operating structure all matter. Whether you’re considering a waterski property or simply want a clearer understanding of Arizona water and how it relates to your purchase, Susan Talarico offers knowledgeable, strategic guidance tailored to your goals. Connect with Susan to learn more about Arizona waterski communities, their water structures and available ski-lake properties.
602.321.1693 | susan.talarico.com | susantalarico.com | waterskiarizona.com
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