The Surveying and Demarcation of Conservation Areas is a significant project undertaken by the Mahaweli Consultancy Bureau (MCB) as part of the broader Climate Resilient Integrated Water Management Project (CRIWMP). This initiative aims to enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers in Sri Lanka’s Dry Zone by protecting and managing critical water resources.

Project Objectives

The primary goal of this project is to precisely survey and demarcate conservation areas within Village Irrigation Systems (VIS) located in selected cascades across the Dry Zone. These conservation areas are essential for maintaining the ecological balance, preserving water resources, and ensuring the sustainability of the village irrigation systems that are vital for local agriculture.

Scope of Work

The scope of the project includes:

1. Surveying:
   • The project involves detailed topographic surveys of tank beds, anicut boundaries, and command areas associated with the selected cascades. The surveys are conducted following strict guidelines established by the Sri Lanka Survey Department to ensure accuracy and reliability.
2. Demarcation:
   • Based on the survey results, physical demarcation of conservation areas is carried out using concrete boundary markers. These markers are strategically placed to define the limits of the conservation zones, ensuring clear delineation between protected areas and agricultural lands.
3. Certification and Reporting:
   • The project requires that all survey drawings and demarcation plans be certified by the Survey Department. Additionally, MCB is responsible for preparing detailed reports, including maps, drawings, and documentation of the work completed. These reports are submitted to the Project Management Unit (PMU) for review and approval.

Expected Outcomes

• Enhanced Conservation Efforts:
  • The demarcation of conservation areas will help protect critical ecosystems and water resources, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the Village Irrigation Systems.
• Improved Water Management:
  • By clearly defining the conservation boundaries, the project aids in better water management practices, reducing conflicts and ensuring that water resources are used efficiently.
• Support for Climate Resilience:
  • The project is a crucial component of CRIWMP’s broader efforts to build climate resilience among smallholder farmers, ensuring they have access to sustainable water resources even in the face of climate variability and extreme weather events.

This initiative, running from June 2023 to April 2024, plays a pivotal role in the overall success of CRIWMP, directly benefiting over 750,000 people in the Dry Zone by securing and managing essential water resources​.