Farmer's Mission to Revive Windermere: Planting 50,000 Trees and Protecting Nature

As of November 9th, 2025, the picturesque Lake Windermere in the UK's Lake District is facing a range of challenges, including rising water temperatures, increased flooding, and the strain of growing tourism. Additionally, the area's wastewater infrastructure has proven inadequate, further threatening the delicate ecosystem.

In response to these concerns, local farmer Chris Hodgson, who runs the 4,000-acre Rydal Hall Farm with his wife Sharon, has taken it upon himself to be a guardian of the land. Hodgson, who was born and raised in the area, has noticed the gradual decline of the trees and is determined to restore the landscape to its former glory. Over the next 2 years, he plans to plant up to 50,000 trees on his property, and he has not used any fertilizers on his "special" meadow for the past 6 years, aiming to give back to nature.

Hodgson's efforts are part of a broader push to address the threats facing Windermere. United Utilities, the regional water company, has pledged to make the largest investment in water and wastewater infrastructure in the area for over a century, working to upgrade treatment facilities and reduce the impact of storm overflows during heavy rain. This ambitious program aims to protect and enhance over 500km of rivers, lakes, and bathing waters, including the iconic Windermere.