From Startup to National Success: How Russ Jundt Built America’s Largest Water Management Contractor

Enjoy this one-of-a-kind session with Russ Jundt, Founder of Conserva Irrigation, the nation’s largest water management contractor. Russ will walk you through his inspiring journey—from launching Conserva to scaling it into a franchise powerhouse—with innovative, out-of-the-box ideas that disrupted the irrigation industry.

Who Should Watch:

Contractors, irrigation specialists, entrepreneurs—anyone focused on growing a resilient, profitable business while championing water conservation.

Key Learning Highlights:

• Identifying and seizing market opportunities in irrigation
• Implementing creative growth tactics that set Conserva apart
• Utilizing water conservation as both a mission and a revenue engine
• Leveraging recurring revenue models and building long-term client trust
• Scaling with systems: training programs, franchise support, and leadership frameworks

Award-Winning Success:

• Named among Inc. Magazine’s Fastest‑Growing Companies in America (#633 in 2020)
• Honored as the Best Irrigation Service in America (2022)
• Recognized as The Toro Company’s 2024 Water Smart Partner of the Year

Russ Jundt is the founder of Conserva Irrigation, the first national irrigation franchise focused on water conservation. With a background in underground utilities and early experience in franchising, Russ launched Conserva in 2012 after developing the System Efficiency Score, a proprietary audit that identifies inefficiencies in irrigation systems.

Since franchising began in 2017, Conserva has expanded to more than 200 territories across North America and has helped clients save over 100 million gallons of water. The company received the Irrigation Association’s Vanguard Award for its measurable impact on water use reduction.

Today, Russ serves as brand visionary for Conserva within Empower Brands, focusing on national growth strategies, service innovation, and technician training. He is a frequent speaker on sustainable irrigation practices, smart technology, and franchise entrepreneurship. His mission is clear: help property owners use less water, lower their bills, and manage landscapes more responsibly.