Launched in 2022, The Big Windermere Survey (BWS) is looking for funding to complete its summer survey.

The goal of the BWS, an initiative by the Freshwater Biological Association and Lancaster University, is to carry out monitoring of Windermere, England's largest natural lake, harnessing the power of volunteer citizen scientists.

Water quality is key for issues as diverse as community health and the growth of Windermere's visitor-based economy.

Four times a year, volunteers compile water samples to be tested in accredited laboratories.

The data collected builds a picture of the ecological pressures facing the lake.

A particular concern is algal blooms and bacterial pollution which can cause harm to both human and animal life.

The focus of the BWS is on the nutrients and bacteria that are behind these potential threats.

The information gathered aids in deciding the best course of action in maintaining the health of Windermere and has already led to investigations into high phosphorus and bacterial concentrations from various wastewater sources.

The BWS needs to raise £30,000 by the beginning of July to fund its summer survey.

Sponsorship is being sought from local businesses, and funds are also being raised through a crowdfunder, with each donation of up to £250 matched pound-for-pound by the Aviva Community Fund.

Visit: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-big-windermere-survey