New publications to help people understand and protect Mayo's Lough Carra

The Mayo environmental group, the Lough Carra Catchment Association, has expanded its series of informative guides exploring the many aspects of Lough Carra’s unique environment.

Among the latest additions - and arguably the most vital - is their recently released guide on Water Quality in Lough Carra.

Presented in a clear and easy to access format, this publication explains what is affecting Lough Carra’s water quality, why it matters, and the ongoing work being done to protect and improve it. The guide outlines how, as recently as the 1970s, Lough Carra’s waters were still in a naturally low-nutrient state, it’s waters crystal clear.

In the past few decades, however, the lake has been gradually degraded - most notably by phosphorus and nitrogen run-off linked to more intensive agricultural activity in and around the catchment. This type of pollution has had a significant impact on the lake’s sensitive marl ecosystem, leading to increased algal growth and a cascade of ecological changes.

Some of the effects of this enrichment have been evident for many years: the crash of the lake’s once-famous mayfly population, extensive - and sometimes toxic - algal blooms, the gradual darkening of the lake’s waters, along with the spread of opportunistic plant species at the expense of its natural aquatic vegetation.

In addition to the harmful effects on the lake’s natural systems, the booklet explains how this level of pollution means that Lough Carra’s water - used as a drinking source by many in the catchment - now requires intensive treatment to ensure it is safe.

Chris Huxley, board member of the LCCA and long-time advocate for the lake, emphasised the guide’s importance: “If we don’t understand what’s affecting water quality in Lough Carra, we can’t protect it. This booklet is essential reading for anyone who wants to see the lake thrive again, because it makes the science accessible and actionable for all."

Accompanying the booklet is an updated map of the Lough Carra ‘Surface Water’ Catchment. This is a visual resource that can help local residents and landowners identify whether their land or activities fall within the area that directly drains into the lake - making it a valuable tool for understanding how individual actions can impact on the lake’s water quality.

Lough Carra is recognised as both a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Special Protection Area (SPA) due to the wide variety of important habitats, plants, and wildlife it supports—some of which are found in only a few places in Ireland. Many of these special species are featured in the LCCA’s publications, which include informative guides, biodiversity maps, and beautiful photographs showcasing the lake’s insects, butterflies, birds, and wild flowers, making them a wonderful resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich biodiversity of the area. The collection also includes booklets on Lough Carra’s unique marl crust and underwater vegetation, both of which are severely threatened by nutrient enrichment.

These materials are part of the LCCA’s ongoing awareness-raising programme and are designed to help readers appreciate not only how much Lough Carra has to offer, but also the urgent need to halt the lake’s decline. They are available free of charge at their public meetings and events, as well as for download from their website.

For more information and to access the full range of free publications, visit www.loughcarra.org or email info@loughcarra.org.