UTILIZING NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR THE CONSERVATION OF WASGAMUWA NATIONAL PARK

UTILIZING NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR THE CONSERVATION OF WASGAMUWA NATIONAL PARK NAME: HM LAKMINI WEERASINGHE REG.NO: A/19/GIS/064 COURSE CODE: GGY 3110 COURSE COORDINATOR: DR. ISTHIKAR AARIFF CONTACT NO: 0716814846.

INTRODUCTION Wasgamuwa National Park, a haven for Sri Lanka's diverse wildlife, features iconic elephants, elusive leopards, and a multitude of bird species. Amidst its natural beauty, the human-elephant conflict poses a pressing challenge. To mitigate this, cutting-edge technology, including electric fences, has become essential. This presentation outlines the objectives of using new technology for the conservation of Wasgamuwa National Park, with a focus on addressing the human-elephant conflict and safeguarding its unique biodiversity. OBJECTIVES Enhancing Wildlife Monitoring -Community Engagement Early Warning Systems -Research and Collaboration Biodiversity Assessment -Educational Outreach Poaching Prevention -Adaptive Management Visitor Experience -Environmental Data Collection Map Area.

METHODOLOGY.

RESULTS & DISCUSSIONS • Objective 1 - Enhancing Wildlife Monitoring Result: Villagers living around Wasgamuwa National Park have limited knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other new technologies used in wildlife monitoring. Discussion: The success of enhancing wildlife monitoring in Wasgamuwa National Park hinges on the active involvement and cooperation of the local community. It is evident from our data that villagers, while having a good understanding of the park's challenges, currently lack awareness and knowledge about GIS and modern technologies used in wildlife monitoring. *Importance of education * Empowering the community *Collaboration and Engagement In conclusion, educating villagers about technology like GIS is not just an objective but a fundamental step in achieving the broader goal of enhancing wildlife monitoring and promoting sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife in Wasgamuwa National Park. It is an investment in the future of the park's conservation efforts, as informed and engaged local communities can play a vital role in its success..

• Objective 2 - Early Warning Systems Result: The current monitoring of electric fences primarily relies on manual labor. Discussion: Early Warning Systems are an integral part of mitigating the human-elephant conflict and safeguarding the biodiversity of Wasgamuwa National Park. Our data reveals that the existing system primarily relies on manual labor for monitoring electric fences, which can be labor-intensive and potentially less effective. *Introduction of Drones *Efficiency and Effectiveness *Enhancing Safety *Cost-Efficiency and Sustainability • In summary, implementing early warning systems using modern technology, such as drones, can significantly enhance the safety and effectiveness of monitoring the electric fences in Wasgamuwa National Park. This not only reduces the human-elephant conflict but also contributes to the park's overall conservation efforts, ensuring a more harmonious coexistence between wildlife and the community.

• Objective 3 - Biodiversity Assessment • Result: Our data indicates that there is limited use of Global Positioning System (GPS) and drones for biodiversity assessment in Wasgamuwa National Park • Discussion: Biodiversity assessment is a critical aspect of managing and conserving the rich ecological diversity of Wasgamuwa National Park. The limited use of GPS and drones in the park presents both challenges and opportunities *GPS for Accurate Data *Drones for Aerial Survey *Enhancing Research *Conservation Planning *Community Involvement • In conclusion, the integration of GPS and drone technology in biodiversity assessment can revolutionize the way Wasgamuwa National Park approaches conservation. It enables more precise and data-driven decision-making, enhancing the park's ability to protect and preserve its unique biodiversity effectively. This aligns with the broader objectives of conservation, reducing human-wildlife conflict, and ensuring a sustainable future for the park and its inhabitants.

Objective 4- Poaching Prevention Result: Our data indicates that drones can be used for tracking elephants and alerting authorities. Discussion: Poaching is a significant threat to the wildlife in Wasgamuwa National Park, and addressing this challenge is crucial to the park's conservation efforts. Drones can play a pivotal role in preventing poaching and protecting the park's precious wildlife. *Enhanced Surveillance *Rapid Response: *Reducing Human Risk *Evidence Collection *Public Awareness In conclusion, drones can be a game-changer in the fight against poaching in Wasgamuwa National Park. Their ability to provide real-time surveillance, rapid response, and valuable evidence collection makes them a crucial asset for protecting wildlife and ensuring the park's long-term conservation. This technology aligns with the broader objectives of your presentation, which is to address the human-elephant conflict and safeguard the park's unique biodiversity.

• Objective 5 - Visitor Experience • Result: Our data indicates that increased safety measures through technology can enhance the visitor experience. • Discussion: A positive visitor experience is vital for the sustainable management of Wasgamuwa National Park. Technology plays a significant role in improving safety and wildlife monitoring, which, in turn, contributes to a better experience for park visitors. *Enhanced Safety *Improved Wildlife Viewing *Educational Opportunities *Data Accessibility *Positive Feedback Loop In conclusion, investing in technology to enhance safety and wildlife monitoring not only safeguards the park's biodiversity and mitigates human-elephant conflicts but also contributes to a more enjoyable and informative experience for visitors. This aligns with the broader objectives of your presentation and the park's mission of promoting both conservation and responsible eco-tourism..

CONCLUSION In summary, the integration of new technology is not merely beneficial but essential for the successful conservation of wild animals in Wasgamuwa National Park. It enhances conservation efforts, improves safety, fosters community engagement, enables adaptive management, and facilitates effective data collection. To further our conservation goals, we should invest in technology education, collaborate with experts, establish clear guidelines, monitor impact, and secure sustainable funding. Ultimately, embracing technology is a pivotal step towards safeguarding the park's unique biodiversity and ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. SUGGESTIONS 1.Educate the local community about technology to gain their support. 2. Partner with experts and organizations to stay updated on technological advancements. 3.Establish clear rules for ethical technology use in conservation. 4.Continuously assess the impact of technology and adapt strategies accordingly. 5.Secure sustainable funding sources for technology acquisition and community engagement initiatives..

THANK YOU!!.