Water Quality & Safety at Alderford

Water Quality and Safety at Alderford

Water Quality

At Alderford Lake, maintaining high water quality is a top priority. We want our visitors to enjoy clean, safe water all year round, which is why we implement a comprehensive water management plan.

To uphold our water quality standards, we conduct frequent water tests that monitor levels of algae and bacteria. These tests allow us to quickly identify any potential issues and address them before they impact the lake’s ecosystem or visitor experience.

In addition to regular testing, we take preventative measures to manage algae growth. One of our key strategies is the application of non-toxic pond dyes. These specially formulated dyes work by filtering sunlight, which disrupts the photosynthesis process that algae and submerged weeds rely on to thrive. As a result, the growth of algae is effectively halted, keeping our waters clear.

In addition to dyes, we also introduce Byofix, a natural bacteria blend, into the water. Byofix bacteria play a crucial role in breaking down organic pollutants that can compromise water quality. They work by maintaining healthy dissolved oxygen levels, reducing water toxicity, and preventing foul odours. These beneficial bacteria also help eliminate suspended organic matter, control disease, and reduce the build-up of sludge on the lake bed.

Our approach at Alderford Lake combines regular monitoring with environmentally responsible treatments. By using non-toxic dyes and natural bacterial solutions, we protect the ecosystem while keeping the lake safe, clean, and inviting for everyone to enjoy.

Here are our latest water test results (received on the 14th September)

Water Safety

Age Restrictions

Here at Alderford, we have an age policy in place to keep everyone safe and ensure that all children are supervised accordingly.

Age policy:

Children 8 and under will need an adult (18+) with them at all times with a ratio of 1 adult to 3 children. If the child is entering the water, the adult MUST go in the water with them ( 1 adult can supervise 3 children in the water)
Children aged 9-12 (inclusive) will need an adult (18+) with them at all times with a ratio of 1 adult to 10 children. If the child is entering the water, the adult MUST go in the water with them (ratio of 1:10)
Children 13-17 (inclusive) will need a supervisor to come onto site with them and supervise. They do not need to go into the water with the child, but they must be supervising from the side accordingly. This supervisor must be 21+ and can supervise up to 10 children.
You must be 18 and over to enter site without an accompanying adult

Safety Measures

Buoyancy aids: We strongly advise that all children that enter the water wear a buoyancy aid, as a safety precaution. We hire these on site or you are more than welcome to bring your own. Even if you think your child is a confident swimmer, we always recommend a buoyancy aid!
Lifeguards: Our lake (other than the aquapark area) is not lifeguarded and therefore it is integral that customers understand and follow the water safety rules.
Know your own abilities: We ask that everyone can swim 25m confidently in open water in order to swim in the lake. Be honest with yourself and don’t enter the water if you don’t feel confident doing so.
Wear your leash: If you have a paddleboard, whether that is your own or on hire from Alderford, please wear the leash at all times. It is an important safety measure for the security of your equipment and your safety
Buddy up: We always recommend having someone with you if you are entering open water as well as carrying a mean of communication whether that be a whistle, mobile phone etc! Even if you are a confident swimmer, it is important that someone is aware of your whereabouts at all times.