Restore Trees & Mangroves for a Greener Sri Lanka

 Title: Mangrove Research and Conservation – Save a Life Initiative

1. Introduction

Save a Life continues its ongoing programme on mangrove research and conservation in the Northern Province. This initiative focuses on scientific assessment, community engagement, and restoration of degraded mangrove ecosystems. During the reporting month, activities centered on field research, plantation, and monitoring in Kuruvikkadu wetland, one of the most important wetlands in the Northern Province that is under serious threat from human and development activities.

2. Key Activities

a) Site and Species Assessment

• Conducted site assessment and species identification prior to plantation in Kuruvikkadu wetland.
• Identified suitable areas for replanting based on soil, water salinity, and ecological conditions.

b) Mangrove Plantation in Kuruvikkadu Wetland

• Planted 150 mangrove saplings in Kuruvikkadu wetland with the participation of community members and youth volunteers.
• This plantation aims to restore degraded areas and protect the wetland from further destruction.

c) Monitoring of Planted Mangroves

• Regular follow-up monitoring was carried out to check survival rates and assess early growth of the saplings.
• Documentation of progress was initiated to inform future scaling-up of plantation efforts.

3. Challenges Faced

Irregular Climate Effects: Unpredictable weather patterns, including irregular rainfall and changing tidal conditions, affected plantation and growth, leading to lower survival rates of the planted mangroves.

Community Encroachment: Continuous encroachment into mangrove areas by community members for land use and resource extraction posed significant threats to the restoration efforts.

4. Impact on Community and Environment

• Contributed to restoring one of the most ecologically significant wetlands in the Northern Province.
• Enhanced awareness among local communities about the threats facing mangroves and the benefits of restoration.
• Built practical experience in species assessment, plantation, and survival monitoring to guide future wetland conservation initiatives.

5. Plans for Next Month

• Continue monitoring the 150 saplings planted in Kuruvikkadu wetland to ensure survival and growth.
• Initiate new plantation and restoration activities in Kallundaai wetland, Poonakayn, and Kowthari Muniai as part of the upcoming mangrove restoration plan.
• Expand stakeholder engagement by involving schools, women’s groups, and CBOs in future restoration activities.
• Strengthen advocacy efforts to reduce destructive human activities threatening the wetlands.

6. Thank You

Save a Life extends heartfelt gratitude to donors, partners, and local community members for their commitment to protecting Sri Lanka’s wetlands. Through continued collaboration, we aim to safeguard mangroves as vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable community livelihoods.