Windermere has been found to have concerning pollution levels, with tests revealing harmful bacteria and phosphorus that do not meet water quality standards. The Big Windermere Survey, conducted by 350 volunteers, collected over 1,000 water samples from more than 100 locations. These samples highlighted contamination hotspots, particularly along the shoreline during peak swimming season. The elevated phosphorus levels, resulting from wastewater and agricultural runoff, pose risks for algal blooms and aquatic life, leading campaigners to call for urgent actions to restore the lake's health.
The Big Windermere Survey saw 350 volunteers collect more than 1,000 water samples from over 100 locations, many previously untested, across ten sessions spanning two and a half years.
Levels of harmful bacteria and phosphorus fail water quality standards, with "hotspots" of contamination identified across the iconic Lake District site.
Testing revealed phosphorus levels exceeding expected standards. This pollutant, originating from sources such as wastewater and agricultural fertiliser run-off, is known to cause damaging algal blooms and harm aquatic wildlife.
Campaigners are demanding "decisive action" to improve the lake for both people and the environment.
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