Ruk Rakaganno

Protectors of Trees

Trees I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the earth's sweet flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.

- Alfred Joyce Kilmer (1886 - 1918)

Last Updated January 19,2009

WELCOME!

In 1975, a group of nature lovers banded together to form Ruk Rakaganno, drawn together by concern about the destruction of the natural forests in Sri Lanka. Their objective was to protect these forests by raising awareness about the value of trees, and to encourage the planting of indigenous species. Since its inception the society has taken the cause of advocacy and conservation seriously, taking up issues concerning the country’s trees and forests, in addition to promoting and actively participating in tree planting throughout the country.

As a national NGO, the Society is represented on various committees dealing with forestry and bio-diversity. Ruk Rakaganno is an approved charity (No. 501) under the Inland Revenue Act and is registered as a Society with the Registrar of Companies and the Central Environment Authority.

Our Vision

A country in which development and natural resource sustainability are balanced so that all inhabitants can enjoy a high quality of life

Our Mission

To conserve the environment by protecting Sri Lanka’s flora.

Our Objectives

• To create an awareness and appreciation of the value of Sri Lanka’s forests and the bio-diversity they hold
• To promote tree planting and other activities that will protect the environment and reverse past destructions
• Green cities for Sri Lanka
• Emphasize the vital synergy between rural communities and the environment, particularly women, children, and youth
• Protection of the environment through sustainable community development
• Ensure implementation of laws and policies that promote and ensure environmental conservation

Our Action Plan

1. Conduct rural and urban tree planting and tree maintenance programs.
2. Raise awareness of environmental issues through publications, seminars, and field trips.
3. Influence policy making and decision making by participating in policy making forums.
4. Lobby through the media and other means on important environmental issues.
5. Build up a membership of enthusiastic and dedicated individuals committed to the cause of conservation of our floristic diversity.