SEVERN Trent has made a roar-some donation of six water bowsers to West Midlands Safari Park to help keep wildlife and plants hydrated during the hot and dry summer.
The portable bowsers can each store up to 1,100 litres of rainwater, which can later be used by the animals for drinking and for watering the vegetation.
The donation comes as Severn Trent looks to give around 700 bowsers to farmers across the region following a record dry spring and summer.
These can be transferred around farmland to ensure livestock have access to a source of water, important during the dry conditions farmers are currently facing.
Severn Trent has now made a special bowser delivery to the safari park near Bewdley, which is home to more than 600 animals, including lions, tigers, rhinos, elephants and giraffes.
Angela Potter, head of wildlife at the park, said: “We were very appreciative of Severn Trent for approaching us with the offer of six water bowsers, as they will be so useful for us in both wildlife and gardening areas of the park.”
She added: “With a focus on sustainability and responsible resource management, the bowsers will help us manage peak water demands during our busier periods.
“In turn this will contribute to the wellbeing of the animals and plants in our care, so we’re grateful for the support of Severn Trent.”
The bowsers were originally used as part of Severn Trent’s emergency fleet but are being repurposed as the company upgrades its equipment.
Kevin Hatch, from Severn Trent’s network operations, said: “It’s great that these bowsers will be put to good use during the very hot and dry summer weather we have been experiencing.”
Severn Trent has been urging customers to be water-wise this summer with simple tips, including:
Turn off taps when not in use – by turning them off while brushing teeth, over 12 litres of water can be saved. Similarly, if washing the dishes, fill the bowl with water rather than running tap.
Fix leaks promptly, try a shower timer, run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines and get a water meter so you only ever pay for what you use.
Visit: www.stwater.co.uk/my-account/my-water-meter/apply-for-a-water-meter/ for more.
