In the heart of Central Sri Lanka, where ancient landscapes are shared between people and wildlife, a new conservation initiative is helping redefine coexistence.
A practical solution to human-elephant conflict
Uga Resorts’ Elephant Research Centre (ERC) has opened a 4.5-kilometre community electric fence at Earu Wewa, near Uga Ulagalla, extending protection to 65 households in the region.
This marks the ERC’s second community fencing project, following a 2023 initiative that continues to safeguard 70 families. Together, these projects highlight a growing commitment to protecting both local livelihoods and elephant movement corridors in one of Sri Lanka’s most ecologically significant regions.
The timing is critical. Seasonal changes in water levels at nearby reservoirs are already influencing elephant movement, with sightings typically peaking between May and October. As elephants return to the area, the fence is designed to reduce conflict while allowing natural migration patterns to continue.
Conservation built with community at its core
What sets this initiative apart is its collaborative approach. The project was funded and developed in partnership with the local community, combining scientific monitoring with on-the-ground knowledge of those living alongside wildlife.
This model of community-led electric fencing is widely recognised as one of the most effective ways to mitigate human-elephant conflict. By involving residents in both planning and maintenance, the solution becomes not just infrastructure, but shared responsibility.
Beyond fencing, the ERC’s broader work includes monitoring elephant behaviour, supporting local communities with infrastructure such as clean water systems, and creating employment opportunities, particularly for women.
For travellers, it offers a deeper insight into Sri Lanka beyond its landscapes. It is a reminder that meaningful travel experiences are often shaped not just by what you see, but by the stories of coexistence and conservation happening behind the scenes.
