Concerning amounts of pollution have been detected in England’s largest and most renowned lake, as revealed by a citizen science initiative. Elevated levels of bacteria linked to human waste, specifically Escherichia coli (E. coli) and intestinal enterococci (IE), indicating sewage contamination, were most prevalent during the summer months when Windermere in the Lake District sees heavy usage by holidaymakers engaging in water activities. Following these findings, which highlighted excessive levels of harmful bacteria and phosphorus surpassing water quality standards, advocates are calling for decisive measures to enhance the lake for both people and the ecosystem.
A survey involving 350 volunteers who gathered over 1,000 samples for the Big Windermere Survey during 10 sessions conducted over two and a half years at more than 100 sites, many of which had never been previously assessed for water quality. Tests for phosphorus, a pollutant responsible for algal blooms and harm to aquatic life originating from sources such as wastewater and agricultural fertilizer runoff, unveiled levels exceeding accepted norms.
The Freshwater Biological Association, in collaboration with the University of Lancaster, which spearheaded the citizen science project, cautioned that rare and endangered freshwater species in the lake, like Arctic char, would experience a gradual and severe decline without actions to enhance water quality. In response to the revelations, the charity’s executive director Simon Johnson emphasized the necessity for prompt actions to improve water quality, stating that Windermere’s significance on a global scale makes it imperative to address the issues effectively.
He emphasized the importance of addressing these concerns promptly, given Windermere’s global reputation and cultural significance. Failure to rectify the situation on this iconic lake could have negative implications for other equally vital but less renowned sites such as Coniston Water. He emphasized the intertwined scientific, ecological, and cultural value of Windermere to various stakeholders, urging expedited efforts to restore this remarkable location.
Windermere, situated within the Lake District National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to over 14,000 residents and attracts seven million visitors annually due to its scenic beauty, rare species, and cultural heritage, generating £750 million for the local economy. Despite its popularity, concerns regarding pollution from various sources, including wastewater from United Utilities, private sewage treatment facilities, and diverse land-use practices, have prompted the government to pledge to address the high pollutant levels affecting Windermere.
Matt Staniek, the founder of the Save Windermere campaign, expressed dismay at the results, highlighting the importance of unbiased scientific data in addressing the issues affecting the lake. United Utilities affirmed its commitment to enhancing water quality in the lake, emphasizing ongoing projects to treat wastewater to the highest standards and reduce discharges from storm overflows that release into the lake.
The spokesperson reiterated the company’s dedication to collaborating with all stakeholders impacting water quality in the lake to achieve the desired improvements. This commitment builds on prior investments that have already reduced phosphorus discharges from United Utilities’ operations by half, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing environmental concerns and safeguarding the lake’s ecosystem.
