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Windermere
Catchment Restoration Programme
The above project is
being supported by the following organisations and groups:
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- Lake District National
Park
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- South Lakeland
District Council
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Chamber of Trade is in
the processing of possibly becoming involved with the above project.
The possibility of the Chamber of Trade being involved is being
discussed on Tuesday 4th November 2008.
The views expressed in
the information below are given for information purposes only and do not
necessary express the views of the Chamber of Trade members.
Background Information:
The water quality of Windermere has been
declining for many years. As a result several native plants and
animals are badly affected whilst some non-native ones are doing well.
Many of these unwanted changes are caused by human activities and can be
reversed if we choose to do so. Some changes may be the result of
climate change and probably require a more global response. Until
now these changes have been the subject of research, but actions to
resolve the problems have been limited.
A partnership of organisations (see above)
has resolved to restore Windermere to its former high quality. In
doing so the Windermere Catchment Restoration Programme Partnership has
established a shared vision for Windermere and its catchment - including
the lakes and tarns, by way of the streams and rivers which feed into
them. This is:
| Healthy: |
because we
wish to see a healthy Windermere in terms of water quality
and natural wildlife and habitats. |
| Catchment:
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because
everything we put on the land or discharge into the streams
or rivers finds its way to the lake; so to protect the lake
we must protect the whole 'water' or 'drainage' catchment. |
| For now,
for ever: |
because
everything we do should be a permanent investment, not just
for the short term. |
The partnership currently includes
those mentioned at the top of the page. All have a role and
responsibility to protect and enhance the lake, and share a common
vision that lake restoration will come about through whole catchment
management. From 2009 a number of opportunities will be provided
encouraging clubs, societies and the local community to get actively
involved in the programme.
Benefits will be environmental, social and
economic.
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Environmental: |
A reduction in soil erosion
and deposition in rivers and lakes; reduced nutrients
entering the catchment, and improved water quality in
bathing waters. Wildlife and habitats will also
improve. |
| Social: |
Visitors and residents
understanding and actively engaged in resolving lake issues
and enhanced health benefits for all through greater access. |
| Economic: |
Promotion of more sustainable
farming, woodland management and tourism. |
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