The Bassenthwaite catchment area lies within the Lake District National Park and includes many sites of geological and wildlife importance. The area is home to important habitats and species, including a breeding ground for rare osprey and the only remaining colonies of vendace (a rare ice-age fish) in England.

The water from the surrounding fells, lakes and rivers feeds into Bassenthwaite Lake, and the water quality in the lake is an indicator of what is happening in the wider landscape. Despite the rich wildlife in the area, soil erosion and chemicals such as phosphates from household products are damaging the lake. This in turn affects the wider environment, the economy and the local community.

The aims of the project were to:

• Contribute to the preservation, restoration and protection of the area’s ecology and natural habitats.
• Encourage the community to develop an appreciation and understanding of the value of the landscape and wildlife and to take a more active role in looking after it.
• Encourage people to learn about and celebrate the cultural heritage of the landscape.
• Increase and enhance skills, education and attainment for people of all ages.

The programme is made up of 28 projects offering a wide range of activities to engage the whole community. The projects focus on four themes:

• access for all
• cultural routeways
• landscape shaped by water
• community woodlands