Freshwater Biological Association

We are the voice for freshwaters. The Freshwater Biological Association is dedicated to understanding and protecting freshwater environments across the world. We are advocates for one of the most vulnerable ecosystems on the planet.

We inspire local and global action to protect freshwater ecosystems through science

Understand. Participate. Protect.

Our Association has the knowledge and data to drive positive action. We make a measurable impact on the ground through our science-based projects, species recovery programmes and citizen science activities.

We train and educate freshwater scientists, building a community to protect freshwater habitats.

Our members and Fellows are at the heart of our Association, working collectively to shape the scientific agenda, influence policy and to deliver tangible change.

The Big Windermere Survey Report now launched

The Big Windermere Survey is a unique collaboration between members of the community and professional scientists at Lancaster University and the Freshwater Biological Association. This collaboration has created unprecedented evidence describing Windermere’s water quality, built on robust scientific data collected from over 100 locations around Windermere’s shoreline and the wider Leven catchment.

The Big Windermere Survey (BWS) report, covering the period June 2022 to November 2024, is a summary of the most spatially detailed, scientific water quality dataset for the lake, and demands action to address ‘Poor’ water quality results.

Download the Big Windermere Survey Report

The Big Windermere Survey Report launched

The Big Windermere Survey (BWS) report, covering the period June 2022 to November 2024, demands action to address ‘Poor’ water quality results.

Read the BWS Report news article
The Big Windermere Survey Report Maps

Further details of bacterial spatial patterns with supporting interactive maps, and phosphorus spatial patterns with supporting interactive map.

View the BWS interactive maps

“This report is the product of the incredible work our citizen scientists have carried out in collaboration with researchers at the Freshwater Biological Association and Lancaster University. Here we report upon the complex patterns in phosphorus and bacterial concentrations both spatially and seasonally within Windermere and shine a light on hotspot areas which show consistently elevated concentrations of these parameters. Restoration efforts should focus on these locations to drive the biggest and fastest reductions in phosphorus and bacterial concentrations. We urge the relevant authorities to invest in ongoing monitoring through the BWS to evidence the benefits of targeted action to drive down nutrient and bacterial inputs. We also urge the Government to invest in regulation and enforcement to ensure all wastewater infrastructure, both private and water company, is fit for purpose.”

Dr Louise Lavictoire, Head of Science, FBA
“The Big Windermere Survey is a unique collaboration between professional scientists and members of various communities with an interest in the water quality of Windermere and its catchment. This collaboration has generated an unprecedented dataset which offers new insights into the spatial and temporal patterns of water quality in Windermere, built on exactly the same robust, scientific approaches used in water quality research. We look forward to working with partners within the catchment to ensure that evidence generated by the Big Windermere Survey informs action that leads to real improvement in the water quality of this iconic lake.”

Dr Ben Surridge, Senior Lecturer at Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University
“We are incredibly grateful to the hundreds of volunteers who have given thousands of hours of their time to gather the scientific data in this report. The evidence is clear and must lead to decisive action to improve water quality. We must all work together to transform the future of Windermere and deliver a cleaner, healthier and safer waterbody for all life to thrive. Windermere is home to a number of rare and increasingly threatened freshwater species including Arctic charr. Without decisive action to improve water quality, this species and potentially many more will face a steady and devastating decline. We hope these findings will not only advance scientific understanding of Windermere’s water quality but also play a pivotal role in shaping future strategies to protect and enhance the health of the lake and its surrounding catchment.”

Simon Johnson, Executive Director, FBA

FBA History

For over 70 years the Freshwater Biological Association has published scientific books for researchers, professionals and enthusiasts. Publications by leading scientists and practitioners in freshwater biology, limnology and aquatic ecology, edited by the FBA.

Discover our History
Become an FBA Volunteer

Here at the FBA we have a range of volunteering opportunities for those who are interested in being a part of a team who believe in the conservation and preservation of both freshwater environments and historical science collections.

Volunteer with Us
Training with the FBA

Discover the fascinating world of freshwater biology! We offer a range of courses with specialist tutors for beginners, enthusiasts and professionals. Learn to identify freshwater life and develop your understanding of sampling and monitoring.

Book Courses Now

Freshwater is essential for our planet.

The 0.01% of the planet that makes up our lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, wetlands and bogs provide essential ecosystem services such as food and water for billions of people. They are also essential for nature and wildlife.

Our freshwaters host 10 times the biodiversity per area than the land and the sea. They also provide habitat for one third of all vertebrate species.

FBA action for freshwater ecosystems.

Despite their importance, many freshwater ecosystems are highly degraded and in ecological decline. They suffer from the impacts of pollution, invasive species and habitat loss. Without urgent action to better understand, conserve and sustainably manage freshwater ecosystems, this decline will only increase. The climate crisis will also exacerbate the rate of decline.

Find out more about our activities supporting freshwater ecosystems.

Freshwater Citizen Science

Freshwater Species Recovery

The Freshwater Biological Association is dedicated to understanding and conserving freshwaters across the globe. We have been advancing freshwater science and conservation action since 1929, to protect our global fresh waters by delivering and enabling freshwater science, conservation action, advocacy and learning.

Support the FBA.

By becoming a member you will automatically contribute directly to our pearl mussel conservation project, as well as advance the understanding of fresh waters and ensure a healthy future for all of our river and lake habitats. Alternatively you may donate directly to the project. We are extremely grateful for all donations that are received. Thank you.

Become a Member

Make a Donation

Get Involved!

We welcome volunteers at FBA and we are happy to discuss how your skills and interests could support our science, training and advocacy work based at our sites in Cumbria.

Volunteer with Us