Bio-diversity

Protecting turtle nests within the project boundary and release hatchlings, to convert turtle egg poaches to conservationists by employing them as nest protectors, to provide an additional source of income to them through the initiation of a revolving credit scheme and promotion of nature tourism and raise awareness of school children of the area on turtle conservation. The programme aims to actively involve community members in Kosgoda. Locals are employed as research officers and turtle nest protectors. Officers roles involve counting the nests and turtles and making accurate records. These records include turtle and egg measurements of size and weight, characteristics and nest position. The patrollers protect the nest and the beach; they are also trained in turtle tourism. Providing guides on the turtles, their habitats and breeding, also diversifying out to the local area and its places and activities of interest. Community members receive education and awareness programmes that teach them about the turtle populations and the work that TCP conducts. With training they then organize educational and awareness programmes in other parts of the community, such as in schools and hotels. Women in the community are involved in the diversification of the projects, they are employed in batik production of which the materials are provided and the final products will be sold at a profit in provided premises. A visitor center will be completed to increase awareness, where other local merchandise will also be sold for additional community income. The community will also be involved in the steering committee of the entire project participating in progress evaluation meetings.

Sri lanka