More details to come....
This programme combines several different sub-programmes which aim to help rehabilitate and conserve the environment in Sri Lanka, including the following:
- Jungle replantation: During the colonial period, large areas of indigenous rain forest were cleared for tea plantations. Since independence, these plantations have been nationalised and returned to the ministry of forestry and environmental department. However, over the last half a century during the restoration of the rain forest, the planting of non-indigenous pine trees has had an adverse effect on the eco-system resulting in a further reduction of wildlife and indigenous plants. Through our re-plantation programme we aim to help re-generate the jungle in the Kottawa and Galle districts of Sri Lanka to their original state.
- Tree Nursery: This is where we grow all our trees which we use to replant. The Tree nursery is currently situated in the grounds of a rescue elephant sanctuary. We also grow various different fruits of Sri Lanka as well as the indigenous trees for educational purposes.
- River And Beach Clean-Up: The river and beach clean-up programme aims to help restore the condition of local rivers and beaches in Sri Lanka. All the collected waste is either disposed or recycled. Volunteers are involved in the education of local school communities regarding responsible waste disposal.
- Turtle Hatchery: This project runs a hatchery for sea turtles with the aim to protect the eggs and release new-borns into the ocean safely. The night-watch programme requires volunteers to monitor and collect eggs. The turtle eggs are incubated at the hatchery and labelled. Once the baby turtles hatch and are ready, they are released back into the ocean! The hatchery requires considerable amounts of maintenance and needs volunteers to help improve the facilities. The volunteers will also look after injured turtles; helping apply medicine and cleaning their wounds.
- Wild Animal Hospital: The wild animal hospital looks after a whole range of different injured animals. Volunteers have the opportunity to work with baby abandoned monkeys, eagles that have hit into electricity wires, deer’s with broken legs to name just a few. Volunteers will help feed, clean out cages and be involved in general maintenance of the Hospital.
This programme is partnered with the Bio-diversity Education and Exploration Society(BEES). BEES comprised of young Conservationists and Environmentalists who are dedicated in conducting research and awareness programmes on bio-diversity, specially touching the areas of Reptiles, Amphibians, Fresh water fish and their habitats.