Bio-diversity

Rationale Removal of forest cover in this area in the hilly dry zone has caused drying up of natural water bodies, soil erosion and associated land degradation, excessive use of chemical fertilizer and pesticides, the natural forest reserves in the area are exploited by the farmers who practice chena cultivation, in effect reducing the bio diversity. Main activities of the project are: Increase forest cover in barren hill slopes and catchment areas, introduce environmental friendly sustainable agricultural practices, reduce chemical fertilizer and pesticide usage, increase herbal and indigenous tree plant coverage in home gardens Groups involved: 162 small groups consisting of Nation builders Association members with 23 operational committees for each GN division. 600 farmers being trained on management of plant nurseries. 1280 women actively involved in implementation of the project

Sri lanka