The Forest Department of Sri Lanka is a key government agency responsible for the management, conservation, and sustainable development of the country’s forest resources which was established in 1887. The department plays a vital role in protecting the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka, with the Mission to conserve, protect, and sustainably manage forest resources for the benefit of current and future generations and with the vision of ensuring a sustainable, productive, and healthy forest ecosystem that supports the social, economic, and environmental well-being of the country. Based on the latest forest cover assessment the existing forest cover of Sri Lankan is 29.7%. The Forest Department is headed by the Conservator General of Forests, who is supported by the Conservator of Forests and other senior officials. The department is organized into several regions (5) and divisions (23).
The primary responsibility of the Forest Department is to conserve and manage the forest resources of Sri Lanka. This includes protecting natural forests, promoting reforestation, and ensuring the sustainable use of forest resources. Sri Lanka is a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous endemic species. The Forest Department works to protect the country’s unique biodiversity through the establishment and management of protected areas, such as conservation and reserve forest areas. The department promotes sustainable forest management practices, ensuring that forest resources are used in a way that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This includes regulating timber harvesting, controlling illegal logging, and promoting agroforestry.
Reforestation and afforestation are key strategies employed by the department to restore degraded forest lands and increase forest cover. The department undertakes tree-planting campaigns and promotes community participation in reforestation efforts. The Forest Department is responsible for enforcing forest laws and regulations to prevent illegal activities such as unauthorized logging, encroachment on forest lands, and wildlife poaching. Forest officers are empowered to take legal action against violators. The Forest Department has separate research divisions, located in Kubalpola and Badulla which conduct research on various aspects of forest ecosystems, including flora and fauna, forest health, and sustainable management practices. The Forest Department promotes ecotourism as a means of generating revenue while conserving natural resources. This includes developing and managing nature trails, eco-lodges, and other facilities that allow visitors to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty without harming the environment. The Forest Department faces several challenges, including deforestation, illegal logging, human-wildlife conflicts, and the impacts of climate change. Addressing these challenges requires continuous effort, collaboration with various stakeholders, and the implementation of innovative conservation strategies.