Lime Tree Project Update: Progress and Partnerships

We’re excited to share an update on the Lime Tree Project, aimed at mitigating human-elephant conflict in Sri Lanka. Despite some initial setbacks, the project is making progress, and we’re working closely with local stakeholders and government officials to ensure its success.

Nursery Update

After a brief setback, we’ve appointed a new team to oversee the lime nurseries. Weekly and bi-weekly visits are being conducted to monitor the nurseries’ progress. The branch propagation nursery is thriving, and some plants in the seed propagation nursery have reached 8-12 inches in height. However, we’ve encountered some disease issues and empty packets, which have caused delays. To address this, we’ve invested in nitrogen fertilizer and anti-fungal sprays

Government Meetings

We’ve had productive meetings with the District Secretary of Anuradhapura and the Assistant Commissioner of Farmer Services under the Agriculture Department. The District Secretary has requested that we mention the project in a government human-elephant conflict meeting. We’re exploring ways to move forward with the project, including working with individual female farmers if necessary.

• A collaborative, cross-party agreement on a national policy and action plan to mitigate human-elephant conflict
• Immediate implementation of the National Action Plan on HEC Mitigation
• A shift away from ineffective and cruel elephant drives
• Urgent action against illegal activities harming wildlife and their habitats
• A strategic pivot towards high-end, ethical wildlife tourism
• Better facilities, training, and staffing for the Department of Wildlife Conservation

We’re committed to working with local communities, government officials, and other stakeholders to find effective solutions to human-elephant conflict. Stay tuned for more updates on the Lime Tree Project and our efforts to promote coexistence between humans and elephants.