The Impact
Wildlife
Our wildlife has already been telling us something is very wrong with Windermere.
In 1980, 855 sea trout were caught by line on the River Leven, the main outflow of Windermere's water. In 2021 this number plummeted down to just 12 individuals.
We saw a mass fish kill on Cunsey Beck just last year in which rare and protected species were killed on a single day. These species included Atlantic salmon, white clawed crayfish, European river eels, trout, pike, perch, rudd, roach and minnows.
The Arctic charr, a flagship species in Windermere, has persisted in the lake since the last ice age. They are now believed to be extinct in the South Basin of Windermere. The pressures on the species in the North basin are exactly the same - we will soon lose our charr forever.
At the lower end of the food-web, invertebrates are critical to the operation of a healthy & thriving ecosystem. We have documented:
61% reduction of invertebrates on Wilfin Beck, from above to below Far Sawrey Wastewater Treatment Works.
44% reduction of invertebrates on the Rothay, from above to below Ambleside Wastewater Treatment Works.
Economy
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In the medium to long term, the continued decline in water quality may impact the economic viability of businesses that depend on a healthy Lake environment, and damage the overall reputation of the Lake District as a visitor destination.
Cumbria Tourism
The Windermere catchment generates £750 million from tourism each year. If someone were to get seriously ill or die as a result of pollution in Windermere, the impact on the local economy would be catastrophic.
Recreation
Algal blooms can be harmful, causing skin irritation and respiratory problems for people swimming in the lake. Windermere has 4 designated bathing sites and hosts the UK’s largest outdoor swimming event each year. If the lake is no longer safe for recreational activities, the local economy will suffer and the wellbeing of residents and visitors will be at risk.
The Save Windermere campaign aims to address these issues and restore the lake to a healthy and enjoyable environment for all.