25th October 2024

Farming has a long and valued history in the Lake District, deeply influencing its landscapes, communities, and cultural heritage. However, farming practices can also significantly impact the water quality of Windermere. Recognising this, the Lake District Foundation as a partner of Love Windermere has teamed up with local farmers to promote more sustainable agricultural practices that protect the lake’s ecosystem. 

Through the Foundation’s free nutrient soil testing program, farmers are empowered to assess and understand the health of their soil and are encouraged to adopt methods that reduce nutrient runoff. Nutrient runoff, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, can flow into the lake, altering its delicate ecological balance and contributing to issues like algal blooms. By gaining insights into their soil’s nutrient levels, farmers can make informed adjustments and adopting sustainable practices that reduce excess runoff. 

This initiative has already seen strong engagement, with 35 local farms committing to practices that support both productive farming and the well-being of Windermere’s waters. These farmers receive personalised soil assessments, enabling them to manage their land in ways that sustain crop and livestock health while actively protecting the lake’s water quality. 

This initiative shows what happens when collaboration is a priority. This project brings together local farmers, the Love Windermere Partnership, Westmorland and Furness Council, and the Farming in Protected Landscapes initiative. These partners are ensuring a future where farming and environmental preservation can go hand-in-hand, supporting a thriving landscape for both people and nature. 

Discover more about the Lake District Foundation’s projects and impact by visiting Lake District Foundation – the charity protecting the Lake District. For any questions, comments, or feedback get in touch at info@lakedistrictfoundation.org.