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Love Windermere Farmer Engagement Projects (April 2024 – March 2025)
Working with Farmers
The Lake District Foundation worked with farmers across the Windermere catchment to build trust, share knowledge and reduce nutrient loss to improve water quality. Funded by the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme and Westmorland & Furness Council, the project ran across three phases.
Farmers and advisers joined workshops focused on soil health, nutrient management and nature-based solutions.
27 farms received free soil testing and Nutrient Management Plans, covering 714 hectares. A further 7 farms completed testing independently.
Artificial fertiliser use has significantly declined over the past 10–15 years. Nearly half of tested fields had high phosphorus levels, pointing to key areas for erosion risk reduction.
Most farmers reported increased interest in nutrient management. A smaller number showed interest in nature-based solutions, with barriers including low financial returns and lack of legal support.
Recommendations: Continue community-led engagement, target erosion hotspots and provide better support for nature-based finance opportunities.
Soil testing and Nutrient Management Plans
Podcast
Lake District Soundnation
Discover the story behind our latest project in our new podcast episode. Join a local Lake District farmer and the LDF team as they talk about working together to protect landscapes, support nature and build a more resilient future. Listen now to hear it straight from the source.
Impact
What do people have to say about this work
Free soil testing and Nutrient Management Plans,
Hectares covered
Working together for Windermere
For nature and for people
Partnerships working for nature
The Reedbed Revival project, in partnership with South Cumbria Rivers Trust, is a shining example of how collaboration can drive meaningful change in our natural environment. Together we’re working to restore and protect reedbeds, the vital habitats for wildlife which play a crucial role in improving water quality across the region.
By joining forces we’re able to pool our expertise and resources, accelerating the impact of our conservation efforts. Partnerships like these are essential in addressing complex environmental challenges and we’re proud to celebrate the incredible progress made through the dedication of our partners and supporters.
