New blue-green algae signs launched around Windermere
Love Windermere partners have launched new blue-green algae information signs around Windermere to help keep people, pets and wildlife safe while enjoying the lake and surrounding waterways.
August 2026
Visitors and residents spending time around Windermere this summer will begin to notice new permanent blue-green algae information signs appearing at locations across the lake.
The project has been delivered through collaboration between organisations in the Love Windermere Partnership and funded by the Environment Agency. Around 40 signs are being installed around Windermere, with a further 40 signs being introduced at locations across Cumbria.
The signs provide clear, consistent information about blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), helping people recognise potential blooms, understand the risks to people and animals, and find the latest information before heading onto or into the water.
Helping people stay informed
The project was developed following feedback from partners, land managers and lake users who highlighted the need for clearer and more consistent public information.
Rather than relying solely on temporary warning notices, the permanent signs provide year-round guidance on:
- What blue-green algae looks like
- The potential risks to people and animals
- Where to find the latest information
- How to report suspected sightings
The signs also direct people to the Bloomin’ Algae app, which allows users to report suspected blooms and view verified reports from across the region.
Alongside the signage project, a series of short educational films has also been produced by UKCEH to improve understanding of blue-green algae and encourage people to play an active role in monitoring local waters.
Supporting citizen science
Liz Cheslett-Davey, Catchment Coordinator at the Environment Agency, said:
“We’re pleased to see these new signs being installed as part of our ongoing work with the Love Windermere Partnership. Installation has started around Windermere, as part of this Cumbria-wide effort to improve access to water safety information.”
“Blue-green algae can appear quickly and the conditions that encourage it to form aren’t always easy to predict. These are both actions that affect water quality and natural factors. Clear on-site signage, alongside the Bloomin’ Algae app and other online resources, helps people make informed decisions about using the water safely.”
“We’re also inviting people to become citizen scientists. By reporting suspected blooms through the app, this information will help us build a better understanding of what’s happening across our lakes and rivers.”
Understanding blue-green algae
Blue-green algae can occur naturally in lakes, reservoirs and slow-flowing rivers, particularly during periods of warm, calm weather.While not all blooms produce toxins, contact with affected water can cause illness or skin irritation in people and can be particularly dangerous for dogs and other animals.
The new signs form part of the Partnership’s wider commitment to improve public understanding of water quality issues, make scientific information more accessible and support the community in helping to care for Windermere.
How you can help
If you’re planning to spend time on or around Windermere:
- Check current water conditions before visiting
- Familiarise yourself with the signs of blue-green algae
- Keep dogs away from suspected blooms
- Report any suspected sightings through the Bloomin’ Algae app
- Share information with family, friends and fellow lake users
By working together, we can help ensure everyone can enjoy Windermere safely while contributing to a better understanding of the lake’s health.
