Life to our National Parks
Contribute to the vital conservation efforts at Lunugamvehera National Park in Sri Lanka, combating invasive plant species threatening its biodiversity. The removal of alien plants prevents human-elephant conflicts and empowers local communities with sustainable livelihoods and education initiatives. Join us in preserving this unique ecosystem and fostering a harmonious balance between nature and communities.
The Project
The Lunugamvehera National Park faces a significant challenge with approximately 20% of its grasslands invaded by alien plant species, particularly Lantana camara and Eupatorium Odoratum. This invasive spread poses a severe threat to native flora, jeopardizing habitat and grazing grounds crucial for elephants and other herbivores. In response, the Federation of Environmental Organizations (FEO) launched a habitat management project in February 2021, providing employment to around 60 villagers affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The initiative has successfully cleared over 650 hectares of invasive plants, but funding is needed to complete the removal in the last three identified areas, totaling around 165 hectares. The project involves three cycles of removal, with a focus on preventing seed dispersal. Additionally, FEO has implemented community projects, including sustainable livelihoods and education initiatives. Collaborating with the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) and Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL), FEO aims to restore 50 hectares through the “Life to Our National Parks” program, building on its successful track record in Minneriya and Kaudulla national parks.
The
Problem
The Lunugamvehera National Park, home to a diverse array of wildlife, faces a pressing challenge as invasive alien plant species, notably Lantana camara and Eupatorium odoratum, have encroached upon approximately 20% of its grasslands. This invasion disrupts the delicate ecological balance, depriving herbivores of essential food and hindering the growth of native vegetation crucial for their safety and reproduction. The problem is compounded by human-animal conflicts arising from wildlife venturing into nearby agricultural areas due to food shortages within the park. Additionally, the invasive plants, particularly toxic Lantana, pose further threats to herbivores. Effective management is imperative, necessitating sustained efforts over at least three years to control the invasive species and preserve the park’s biodiversity. Early detection and rapid response to prevent seed dispersal are critical components of this ongoing conservation challenge.
Project
Current progress
The project engaged approximately 60 workers from five surrounding villages in the manual removal of invasive alien plant species (IAPS) within the national park. These workers, hailing from communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, received training on effective plant removal techniques and the importance of preserving native species.
The positive environmental impact is evident, with herds of elephants and deer returning to cleared areas where grass is regrowing. Beyond IAPS removal, the Federation of Environmental Organizations (FEO) initiated livelihood and education projects, establishing community-based organizations, restoring community facilities, and implementing sustainable livelihood activities such as beekeeping and agri-gardens. Youth empowerment programs, including conservation workshops and school visits, aim to foster the next generation of conservation advocates, while education initiatives focus on sustainable consumption and waste management. This multifaceted approach not only addresses ecological concerns but also uplifts local communities, creating a harmonious balance between conservation and livelihood enhancement.
How your
contribution helps
The project engaged approximately 60 workers from five surrounding villages in the manual removal of invasive alien plant species (IAPS) within the national park. These workers, hailing from communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, received training on effective plant removal techniques and the importance of preserving native species.
The positive environmental impact is evident, with herds of elephants and deer returning to cleared areas where grass is regrowing. Beyond IAPS removal, the Federation of Environmental Organizations (FEO) initiated livelihood and education projects, establishing community-based organizations, restoring community facilities, and implementing sustainable livelihood activities such as beekeeping and agri-gardens. Youth empowerment programs, including conservation workshops and school visits, aim to foster the next generation of conservation advocates, while education initiatives focus on sustainable consumption and waste management. This multifaceted approach not only addresses ecological concerns but also uplifts local communities, creating a harmonious balance between conservation and livelihood enhancement.
