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Heritage, Environment and Resilience Together

HEART

The Lake District World Heritage Site is under increasing pressure from climate change. Flooding, biodiversity loss and rising temperatures are already affecting the landscapes, traditions and heritage that make this place globally significant. The HEART project will respond to these challenges by combining research, inclusive engagement and on-the-ground delivery-embedding climate resilience into the future of the Lake District’s Outstanding Universal Value (OUV).

A partnership with LDNPA

A community, nature, climate and heritage project

Windermere Science Festival
Working together for water quality

A STEP change for Windermere

Private sewage systems, like cesspits and septic tanks are wastewater treatment systems commonly used in areas without access to mains sewerage. While safe and effective when properly maintained, poorly managed or failing private sewage systems can leak harmful bacteria, nutrients and chemicals into nearby rivers, lakes and groundwater. This can lead to water pollution, algal blooms and damage to sensitive freshwater habitats. In the Windermere catchment, where thousands of properties rely on private sewage systems, improving how they are managed is vital to protecting water quality and the wider environment.

A partnership with South Cumbria Rivers Trust

Community project

Real Hedge Fund 3
Creating wildlife corridors

The Real Hedge Fund

Since 2021, the Lake District Foundation has been on a mission to bring back hedgerows, we have supported planting more than 1,000 metres of hedges. Why hedges, you ask? Well, they’re not just charming green borders – they’re vital habitats that support wildlife, help combat climate change and boost biodiversity. But sadly, we’ve lost half of the UK’s hedgerows since World War II. It’s time to bring them back!

Over £48,000 raised

Creating new homes for wildlife

Reedbed
A partnership project to create and maintain new reedbeds around Windermere

Reedbed Revival

 

The Reedbed Revival Project is an exciting conservation initiative focused on restoring and preserving reedbeds across the Lake District. Reedbeds are vital wetland habitats that support diverse wildlife, including birds like bitterns and warblers, as well as amphibians and insects. These natural water filters also play a crucial role in improving water quality, reducing flooding and capturing carbon. Through our  partnerships with  South Cumbria Rivers Trust, local communities and landowners,  the project aims to enhance biodiversity, promote sustainable land management and connect people to the value of these extraordinary ecosystems. 

Over 60k raised

A project in partnership

Soil quality for water quality

Working together with farmers

Farming has deep roots in the cultural heritage of the Lake District, shaping our landscapes and communities. But did you know that farming practices also have a direct impact on the water quality?

We've funded soil testing on local farms

We've worked with farmers around Windermere

michele and team for news
Collaboration is key

Fix the Fells

Fix the Fells is a collaborative effort between the Lake District National Park, National Trust, Natural England, Lake District Foundation and Friends of the Lake District. This partnership is dedicated to repairing erosion scars that have developed over time and preventing future damage.  This keeps sediment out of water courses and repairing habitats alongside the paths.

We have raised almost 100k for the project this year

150 volunteers support this project

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Access and Inclusion

Lake District for Everyone

The ‘Lake District for Everyone’ project worked with 18 community groups to learn about their experiences visiting the Lake District. We will be actively learning and listening to understand the barriers that prevent equal access and sharing this information with our partners. This will help us create more inclusive opportunities for all.

We have worked alongside 18 groups

We will listen and learn

woodland
The future is forest

Forest and woodlands

From March 2022 to March 2023, the Lake District Foundation joined forces with Cumbria Woodlands, The Woodland Trust and United Utilities to protect and restore ancient woodlands around Thirlmere. 

 

Funding to support 30k trees

Partnership working

Protect yourself and your family

Staying safe from carbon monoxide

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a silent killer – you can’t see, taste, or smell it, but it can be deadly. It’s important to understand the risks and how to protect yourself and your family, especially when enjoying outdoor activities like camping and boating in the Lake District and Cumbria.

Project supported by Northern Gas Network

Donate today

By giving today, you’re not just donating. You’re an active part of a Lake District for everyone- protecting its natural beauty, rich heritage and diverse communities.

Become a business supporter

Find out how your business can support amazing projects right here in the Lake District.