lake water
the Lake is fed from underground aquifers

Environment

In harmony with the Buckinghamshire Biodiversity Plan Dorney Lake hosts an increasing number of birds, mammals and invertebrates. There are up to 140 different bird species that frequent the area, many passing through on their migratory journeys.

Green Credentials

You will be pleased to learn that Dorney Lake could hardly have better green credentials in this age of environmental awareness. Here are some interesting facts:

  • During the several years planning, Eton College, owners of the land, restricted the use of fertilisers in order that the land would have all of the previously man-applied nutrients washed out of the soil thus presenting a 'clean' ground and soil
  • The Lake is fed from underground aquifers (streams) percolating through the natural gravel filter and this results in excellent water quality
  • Algae growth is discouraged by using barley bales that can be seen at either end of the Lake
  • Waste recycling practices are applied wherever possible to both sporting and hospitality activities
  • During the Olympic Games 2012 bid process we used environmentally friendly lighting powered by mini-wind generators and solar panels (provided by one of the bid sponsor companies) and, with the key statement of presenting an environmentally friendly Games, further work is going on to develop more carbon friendly practices
  • The Nature Conservation Area is being grazed by sheep as part of the land management strategy to attract yet more birds, including some which like the wading pools and 'ephemeral' wetlands that have been landscaped into the site
  • Visitors are asked not to set up barbecues since carbon run-off can affect the water quality
  • Litter too is discouraged so it does not interfere with the water or birds
  • Dog owners are asked to clean up after their animals

Regular monitoring by an ornithologist ...

... for more than 12 years has recorded sightings of 140 bird species, of which some 40 have bred or are likely to breed.

The new Nature Conservation Area is being grazed by sheep to a level which will attract yet more birds, including some which like 'ephemeral' wetlands (when it rains, there are pools).