Lough Neagh is experiencing severe algal blooms driven by a complex relationship between Nitrogen and Phosphorus balance and zebra mussel, with climate warming accelerating impacts. This perfect storm has resulted in reduced utility and amenity of a huge natural asset.
The lake can recover, though not quickly. This will require concerted efforts by competent authorities, NGO’s, and society. With farming the predominant land use in the large catchment, it follows that a policy framework for an agriculture transition with reduced nutrient loss to water at its centre is urgently required.
The IFM has produced a new position statement in response to these issues. This can be read and downloaded below
IFM Position on Lough NeaghDownload
Lough Neagh images kindly provided by Dr Derek Evans