The city is on the hunt for volunteers who live near a nature reserve and have a passion for helping the region's animals.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Wagga City Council, in partnership with Water for Wildlife, is trialling the use of portable stations to help native animals access water during periods of extreme heat and drought.
Environmental officer Sam Pascall said Water for Wildlife is a fantastic way for residents to engage with the natural habitats around them.
"This project came about through the Biodiversity Maldhangilanha Strategy," she said.
"There's a key action in there to help animals access water during extreme periods of heat and drought."
Ms Pascall said there are 18 water stations to distribute to residents willing to take on the role.
"You need to have access to a natural reserve," she said.
"You then need to fill it from your own water source. It can be a bit heavy, so it weighs about 15 kilograms because it holds 15 litres.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"You walk it up and fix it in place and make sure to put some sticks or rocks around it so smaller animals can access it."
Ms Pascall said volunteers need to be willing to maintain it through the heat waves.
Those who put their hand up will receive a 15-litre Water for Wildlife unit, straps to secure it in the chosen location, support from council staff in the placement and alerts when extreme heat events are forecast.
Ms Pascall said other residents could also help out by putting out small containers or bowls of water in extreme heat conditions for birds or other small animals around the neighbourhood.
"You can still help out the natural wildlife by doing that," she said.
"As we know, it can be really uncomfortable in those conditions so any relief can help."
Suggested locations include Willans Hill, Rocky Hill Reserve, Birramal Conservation Area, Silvalite Reserve and Best Reserve.
To volunteer, go to www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/community/programs-and-initiatives/water-for-wildlife.