Access to clean drinking water is one of the most basic yet crucial factors in livestock welfare, especially in dry weather or remote pastures far from mains supply. That’s why the 2025 Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) is now providing funding support for livestock farmers investing in water bowsers with integrated troughs. It’s a practical, animal-welfare-focused move, and one that could make a real difference on your land this summer.
What’s Covered by the 2025 FETF Grant?
Under the updated FETF scheme, grant support is available for towable water bowsers with integrated drinking troughs (FETF278SH – Water bowser with integrated trough), holding between 1,100 and 2,000 litres. To qualify, the bowser must be professionally manufactured (not home-built or modified IBCs), and capable of automatically filling the trough from the main tank. It must also be traceable by serial number and sourced from a recognised supplier.
This means you could now part-fund a piece of kit that not only saves time and labour, but also safeguards animal welfare during hotter, drier spells when hydration is critical.
How to Apply for the Grant
Applications for the FETF 2025 grant are made via the Rural Payments Agency (RPA), under the umbrella of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
To apply, follow these steps:
1. Register with or log in to the Rural Payments Agency
If you’re not already registered, you’ll need to create an account at https://www.rpa.gov.uk/
2. Submit an online application
When the application window opens (expected spring/summer 2025), eligible farmers and contractors can log in and submit an expression of interest via the online portal. You’ll be asked to choose from the list of eligible items – select FETF278SH – Water bowser with integrated trough – and confirm quantities and supplier information.
3. Await a grant offer
Once your application is reviewed, the RPA will issue a grant offer if your submission is approved. Only after this point can you place your order and proceed with the purchase.
4. Purchase and claim
Once you’ve bought and received your bowser, you’ll need to submit proof of purchase, delivery, and the item’s serial number via the Rural Payments portal to claim your grant reimbursement.
Be sure to read the eligibility rules carefully, as although animal welfare-related equipment are often given higher priority, grants are typically awarded on a competitive scoring basis.
Why Choose a Trough Bowser?
Modern trough bowsers are designed with efficiency and reliability in mind. They allow you to transport a large volume of fresh water directly to grazing livestock, reducing the need for frequent trips or risky improvisations. The integrated trough feature means animals can drink directly from the bowser, and you can be confident that water is clean, accessible, and refilled automatically – no tipping or siphoning required.
For farmers managing livestock across large areas or those with fields that lack piped supply, a trough bowser becomes more than a convenience. It’s an essential tool that keeps welfare standards high and regulatory compliance easier.
Towable Bowsers from Tanks-UK
Tanks-UK offers trough bowser solutions that meet the FETF 2025 specification, all designed for professional agricultural use and built to last. Depending on your access routes and equipment, you can choose from:
Road Tow Water Bowsers
These bowsers are fully compliant for road towing, ideal for farms with fields spread across a wider area and requiring access via the public highway.
Tractor Tow Water Bowsers
Designed purely for field use, these are easily towed by your tractor with robust construction for all-terrain performance.
Bear in mind that to qualify for the FETF grant, you will require a TOWABLE bowser with a capacity of 1100-2000 litres – smaller ATV-towable bowsers and skid-mounted bowsers do not qualify.
All these units are available with integrated troughs and constructed to a standard that makes them eligible for the FETF grant. By choosing a recognised manufacturer like Tanks-UK, you’ll also ensure that all necessary documentation – serial numbers, specifications and supplier credentials – are readily available when applying for the grant.
Be Prepared for Summer Grazing
Water supply challenges can escalate quickly in dry spells. By investing in a trough bowser now with FETF support, you’ll be ready for whatever the season throws at you. This not only keeps livestock healthier and more productive, but also shows that you’re taking proactive steps to meet high welfare standards.
At Tanks-UK, we can help match you with the right bowser for your operation and guide you through eligibility and application steps for the 2025 grant round. Contact us today for free advice.
Useful Links
Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) 2025
General information on FETF
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/farming-equipment-and-technology-fund-2025
Animal Health and Welfare items and specifications – Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) 2025
Specific information (search for FETF278SH – Water bowser with integrated trough)
Rural Payments Agency (RPA)
Register or log in to apply for FETF funding
Tanks-UK Road Tow Water Bowsers range
https://www.tanks-uk.com/product-category/bowsers-portable-units/road-tow-water-bowsers/
Tanks-UK Tractor Tow Water Bowsers range
https://www.tanks-uk.com/product-category/bowsers-portable-units/site-tow-water-bowsers/