The Big Windermere Survey Results
The Big Windermere Survey has completed nine rounds of surveys representing two full year’s worth of data spanning the four seasons for 2022/23 and 2023/24.
Launched jointly by the Freshwater Biological Association (FBA) and Lancaster University, the Big Windermere Survey has recruited a team of local volunteer citizen scientists to help assess the environmental health of Windermere.
Citizen scientists are trained to collect water samples from approximately 100 different locations on Windermere and in the rivers and lakes that flow into it. The samples are analysed for nutrient and bacterial concentrations at independent laboratories, producing the largest, one-day snapshot of conditions in Windermere.
Results
All data from our previous surveys can be viewed on our interactive map on Cartographer using the link below.
Results from individual surveys can be viewed using the links below.
Thank you to all our wonderful citizen scientists for taking part in the Big Windermere Survey!
Thank you to our funders for supporting the Big Windermere Survey!
Our most recent surveys have received funding from Lancaster University, Westmorland and Furness Council and Lake District Foundation. Previous surveys have received funding from the National Trust, Lake District Foundation, Lancaster University Vice-Chancellor’s Prize for Participatory Research (2021-2022), Lakeland, the Environment Agency, United Utilities, the Lake District National Park Authority, South Cumbria Rivers Trust, and Brathay Trust.
The funding goes towards covering the costs of water sampling kits, lab analysis and logistics, alongside support at our four science hubs and the transport of equipment on survey days. To support with funding the Big Windermere Survey, you can make a direct donation. Alternatively, contact us at windermere@fba.org.uk for more information on how to support us. Thank You!
Find out more about the Big Windermere Survey
-
Volunteer for the BWS
Interested in becoming a Citizen Scientist? We'd love you to join us at the next Big Windermere Survey!
-
Importance of Citizen Science
Here at the FBA we value the power of Citizen Science to support the conservation of freshwater environments.
-
About the Big Windermere Survey
The BWS was launched by the FBA and Lancaster University in 2022 to help assess the environmental health of Windermere.
Support the Big Windermere Survey
The Big Windermere Survey is a vital community based project which would not be possible without funding. Please consider donating today.