Moira Lakes

Water Quality & Lake Management

Moira Lakes is a clean, natural freshwater lake enjoyed by thousands of swimmers each year.

Regular water quality checks

Aquatic weeds actively managed

Swimming loop prioritised

Healthy freshwater ecosystem

Why can mild skin irritation occasionally happen?

During prolonged warm weather, naturally occurring microscopic freshwater wildlife can occasionally cause mild skin irritation in some swimmers.

This is a natural occurrence in many healthy freshwater lakes and is not a sign of poor water quality.

Simple ways to reduce the chance of irritation

🚿
Shower after swimming
Towel dry thoroughly
Change out of wet swimwear
Wearing a wetsuit may help reduce the chance of skin irritation

What we are doing

  • ✓ Water quality checked regularly during the swimming season
  • ✓ Aquatic weeds actively managed throughout the season
  • ✓ Swimming loop prioritised for maintenance
  • ✓ Lake conditions monitored
  • ✓ Rainbow trout supported as part of the freshwater ecosystem
  • ✓ Blue lake dye used as directed as part of seasonal lake management
  • ✓ Healthy fish population supported

Latest Water Quality Results

We regularly monitor the water quality and overall health of the lake throughout the swimming season.

Last tested: 2 June

ResultStatus
pH
8
Normal
Ammonia (NH3)
0 mg/L
Excellent
Nitrite (NO2)
0 mg/L
Excellent
Nitrate (NO3)
0 mg/L
Low
Carbonate Hardness (KH)
7 dKH
Good
General Hardness (GH)
6 dGH
Healthy

What do these results mean?

- Excellent microbiological results indicate very good swimming water quality.

- Zero ammonia and nitrite are excellent indicators of a healthy freshwater environment.

- A pH of 8 is slightly alkaline and is typical of many healthy freshwater lakes, particularly during warm sunny weather.

- The lake supports rainbow trout, which are associated with clean, well-oxygenated freshwater environments.

- Mild skin irritation can occasionally occur in natural freshwater lakes but is not an indicator of poor water quality.

How we monitor and protect the lake

Moira Lakes is owned, managed and monitored on site, with daily oversight of lake conditions throughout the swimming season. This helps us respond quickly to any changes and maintain a healthy freshwater environment.

Daily condition checks

Lake conditions are assessed daily by experienced on-site management.

Regular water testing

Water quality is checked regularly during the swimming season, with additional checks carried out when needed.

Run-off protection

A cut-off drain surrounds the complex to help prevent agricultural run-off from reaching the lake.

Aeration system

The lake has an aeration system to help maintain oxygen levels and keep the water moving.

Natural water sources

The lake is fed by spring and groundwater sources, providing natural inflow and refreshment of water.

Rainbow trout population

Rainbow trout are present in the lake as part of the freshwater ecosystem. Trout generally do best in clean, well-oxygenated water, so supporting a healthy fish population is one of the ways we keep the lake environment balanced and closely observed.

Blue lake dye

We use blue lake dye as directed as part of seasonal lake management. It helps reduce sunlight penetration through the water, which can support clearer conditions and help manage aquatic plant and algae growth. The lake dye is designed for lakes and ponds and is safe for swimmers, fish and wildlife when used as directed.

Full-site management

Because the whole complex is managed by the Moira Lakes team, lake care is joined up across the site.

Frequently asked questions

Is the lake safe to swim in?

Yes. Moira Lakes is regularly monitored, with water quality checks carried out during the swimming season. The latest results show excellent microbiological readings for swimming water quality.

How often is the water checked?

Lake conditions are assessed daily by experienced on-site management. Water quality is also checked regularly during the swimming season, with additional checks carried out when needed.

Why is the lake sometimes blue?

Blue lake dye is used as directed as part of seasonal lake management. It helps reduce sunlight penetration through the water, which can support clearer conditions and help manage aquatic plant and algae growth. The dye is designed for lakes and ponds and is safe for swimmers, fish and wildlife when used as directed.

Why are there rainbow trout in the lake?

Rainbow trout are present as part of the lake's freshwater ecosystem. Trout generally do best in clean, well-oxygenated water, so supporting a healthy fish population helps us maintain a balanced lake environment.

Can mild skin irritation still happen in clean lake water?

Yes. Mild skin irritation can occasionally happen in natural freshwater lakes, especially during prolonged warm weather. It is a natural occurrence and is not an indicator of poor water quality.