Bringing Water to Wyoming’s Wildlife

BOW’s Latest Guzzler Project

In Wyoming’s dry, open landscapes, water is life. For wildlife, finding it can be a daily challenge—especially in the heat of summer or during prolonged droughts. That’s where guzzlers come in. These man-made water collection systems are designed to provide a reliable, year-round source of water for animals in areas where natural sources are scarce.

This summer, Bowhunters of Wyoming (BOW) took a major step forward in supporting our state’s wildlife by taking delivery of six new wildlife guzzlers. With the help of the Buffalo BLM Field Office and the Wyoming Game and Fish Buffalo Office, we were able to unload and stage these guzzlers for upcoming installation in Sheridan, Johnson, and Campbell counties.

What is a guzzler?

A guzzler works by catching precipitation—rain and snow—on a sloped, impermeable surface and channeling it into a covered storage tank. From there, the water is accessible to wildlife through a safe, small drinking area. In dry climates like much of Wyoming, guzzlers can mean the difference between life and death for species like pronghorn antelope, mule deer, elk, sage grouse, upland birds, and countless small mammals.

BOW Leading the Effort

This project is spearheaded by BOW in partnership with the Buffalo BLM Field Office, who have been instrumental in the planning, logistics, and on-the-ground work. While Wyoming Sportsmen’s Group and the Wyoming Wildlife Federation generously provided funding along with BOW. The Buffalo BLM and BOW are responsible for the execution—from identifying high-priority sites to coordinating installation.

Why This Matters

Each guzzler will hold hundreds of gallons of water and provide a permanent, dependable source in areas where water is often miles away. Over the next 10+ years, these installations will:

• Reduce wildlife mortality during droughts.

• Support healthier herds and flocks.

• Increase biodiversity by providing water for all species in the area—not just big game.

• Improve hunting opportunities by sustaining wildlife populations.

For BOW, this project isn’t just about hunting—it’s about stewardship. It’s about ensuring that future generations have the same opportunities we enjoy today. It’s about giving back to the land and the wildlife that give us so much.

Looking Ahead

The guzzlers are staged and ready, and installation will begin soon. We’ll share updates and photos as each site is completed. If you’d like to get involved—whether through volunteer work or donations—keep an eye on our website and social media pages for opportunities.

From all of us at Bowhunters of Wyoming, thank you to our members, funding partners, and volunteers who made this possible. Together, we’re making a lasting impact on Wyoming’s wildlife and hunting heritage.