In our recent field visit to the Wasgamuwa National Park (WNP), as a fieldwork component of GIS 3110 Biogeography 3000 level, on the 11 th of October 2023. The course coordinator Dr. Isthikar Aariff, co-lecturer Prof. Tilak Bandara, and other lecturers Mr. M.S.M. Razik, Ms.H.K.C.A.Kumari, Ms. B.S.K.Wijesinghe, and Ms. L.D.N.N.Jayawardhana were involved in the fieldwork.
The main purposes of the fieldwork were to develop a thorough understanding of the biodiversity of Wasgamuwa National Park and the effectiveness of biological corridors and the electric fence around the WNP, the status of invasive species in the selected areas of the park, the interest of the locals in selected villages into the park challenges and threats, through a focused assessment of ongoing conservation measures.
All 68 Students were divided into 10 groups; each group had a specific mission. Students were armed with group discussions and interviews with villagers. In addition, all groups were also exposed to different fieldwork methods. In the field as pre-arrangements, Park warden Mr. Madugalla delivered an insightful presentation, providing a comprehensive overview of the park's unique biodiversity, status of biological corridors, electric fences, human-elephant conflict, invasive species, locals around the parks, and conservation efforts. During the fieldwork, the students applied observation, and several focused group discussions, interviews were done with the park officers, safari jeep drivers, and villagers. Moreover, students recorded some video clips and captured pictures to include in their field course report.
Moreover, our students engaged themselves in the complexities of the environment, investigating invasive species and mitigation measures in WNP, comprehending ecosystem functions within the park, exploring the dynamics of the human-elephant conflict in surrounding areas, and conducting a thorough assessment of current conservation measures in the park. Students gained insights into wildlife corridors connecting WNP with surrounding forested areas, where they successfully identified challenges and threats associated with corridor destruction. During the field visit, students had hands-on experience, applying GIS and RS to address conservation challenges faced by WNP, emphasizing the intersection of technology and environmental stewardship. This expedition was not merely a field visit; it was a journey of discovery, learning, and appreciation for the complexity between nature and humanity. As we return, armed with knowledge and memories, let's carry forward the responsibility to protect and preserve our parks and nature. After two weeks of fieldwork, students were presented with a guideline.
Acknowledgment: Faculty of Arts, University of Peradeniya for funding the field trip, the park warden and other officers of the WNP, and the assisted people in selected villagers near the park entrance
