By Salik Ansar | External Consultant
August 12th is a special day dedicated to raising awarness of the magestic elephant and we're excited to share the latest updates on our efforts to promote coexistence between humans and these incredible animals! Your ongoing support has been crucial in advancing our mission to build harmonious relationships between local communities and Asian elephants. Thank you for making a difference!
Conservation Update: Embracing Opportunities Amidst Change
Sri Lanka is on the verge of transformation as it approaches a pivotal election period. While political changes bring some uncertainties, the economy has stabilized, demonstrating resilience amidst high taxes and increased living costs. This spirit of determination fuels our optimism for conservation efforts. Although there are currently some delays due to political instability, we anticipate momentum as proper authorities are set in place.
Alternative Crop Project: Progress and Crop Selection
We are excited to report progress on our Alternative Crop Project, which fosters hope and cooperation among the 300 participating farmers. Their enthusiasm and willingness to be involved ensures a robust start to this vital initiative. The farmers have planted their initial cash crops, and our field team is actively engaging with them to confirm their interest in planting alternative crops as the rainy season concludes.
Engaging these farming households is crucial for the project's next phase, where we focus on growing alternative crops. To optimize land use and enhance income security, we have thoughtfully selected crop options for the farmers. We categorized them into tree-type (long-term) crops like moringa, lemon, and lime and low-growing (short-term) crops such as lemongrass, citronella, and passion fruit. This approach provides flexibility, allowing farmers to diversify their crops, maximise land-use, and protect their livelihoods against potential natural adversities in case one crop fails.
Behavioral Study
PhD student Sateesh Venkatesh continues to conduct the behavoioural study and we're proud to share that he's recieved a prestigious Fullbright-National Geogrphic Award!
Sateesh and the field team, in collaboration with 40 dedicated farmers, are using cameras and audio recorders to monitor changes in elephant behavior as we encourage changes to the crops farms are growing. The first phase concluded in June, with data currently being analyzed at the University of San Diego, USA. We anticipate exciting insights from the upcoming second round later this year.
Biodiversity Study
The biodiversity study enhances our understanding of environmental changes related to alternative crop farming in Udawalawe. Surveys will be conducted across six agricultural sites during both wet and dry seasons, day and night. Mr. Sudesh from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, guides us in assessing soil, litter, and invertebrate samples to track biodiversity shifts over time, adding valuable monitoring to our project
Flourishing Partnerships
Meanwhile, in Thailand, our partners at BTEH (Bring The Elephant Home) achieved great success with their Alternative Crop Fun Fair. The event engages farmers from three villages, showcasing elephant-friendly agricultural practices with educational booths and expert speakers. Attendees enjoyed live music, games, and food stalls, and over 100 farmers registered to participate in the initiative. Both BTEH and T&L aim to equip farmers with the tools they need to transition to alternative crops, benefiting both the environment and the community.
A Mammoth Shoutout
A special shoutout on World Elephant Day to teenager Cole Culver, our supporter raising awareness and funds for Asian elephant conservation. Inspired by the challenges these creatures face, Cole has already raised $1,300!
Thank You for Your Support
Trumpets, squeaks and rumbles of appreciation for ALL your invaluable support making this project a success. Together, we are advancing sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both people and wildlife. Thank you for joining us in fostering harmonious coexistence between elephants and humans—your support is crucial. Donate via GlobalGiving to directly impact our conservation efforts and stay updated with us on social media. Thank you for believing in our mission!
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