KEY environment partners are meeting in Windermere today (Friday) to assess the impact of a far-reaching European freshwater directive.

The Lake District Still Waters Partnership's third annual meeting is being held at the Lake District National Park Visitor Centre at Brockhole and aims to investigate elements of EU legislation that could benefit the National Park.

Delegates will be putting the Water Framework Directive firmly under the microscope as it is likely to be the main mechanism for conserving and improving freshwater habitats for the next decade.

Subjects covered in the directive include: preventing further damage to the lakes, rivers and wetlands; reducing pollution; restoring damaged sites by improving water quality or physical environment; promoting sustainable water use and protecting all sources of water; mitigate damage from floods and droughts.

The meeting will be chaired by National Park Officer Paul Tiplady.