Severn Trent Offers Free 1,100-Litre Water Bowsers to Livestock Farmers to Prepare for Dry Weather

Severn Trent Water has launched a new giveaway to help livestock farmers in the region manage their water demand, offering 1,100-litre water bowsers free of charge to those most in need.

The water company is urging farmers, particularly those with livestock in water-stressed areas, to apply for one of the bowsers to help store enough water and support animal welfare during potential hot weather periods. With the possibility of a "particularly dry summer" on the horizon, the initiative is part of a wider call for farmers to plan ahead for the potentially dry weeks to come.

What are Water Bowsers and Why are They Useful?

A water bowser is a large, mobile container designed for transporting and storing water. The bowsers being given away by Severn Trent are 1,100-litre units (measuring 175cm high by 115cm wide) that were originally part of the company's emergency fleet. As the company upgrades its own equipment, it is passing these bowsers on to farms that can benefit from reliable on-farm water storage.

For livestock farmers, having this extra storage is crucial. It allows them to store water for their animals in case of supply issues and can be used to receive alternative water supplies, such as those delivered by a tanker, which is a key part of planning for water shortages.

Who is Eligible and How to Apply?

The giveaway is open to farmers within the Severn Trent region who have dairy cattle, hatcheries, poultry sheds, or beef, sheep, or pig herds. Priority will be given to those in known water-stressed areas and those who have experienced water supply problems in the past.

To register their interest, farmers must fill out a form on the Severn Trent Water website with their farm details, including address and herd or flock size. It is important to note that the offer is for the bowser itself and "does not include any additional equipment".

The deadline for livestock farmers to register their interest is Friday, 14th November 2025.