Goonatilake, S. de A.

After the 30-year long civil war was over, the Government of Sri Lanka commenced an accelerated programme to develop the Northern Province. If not carefully planned, such a programme will result in the loss of biodiversity and the consequent loss of services that ecosystems provide humans.

This study documents the terrestrial and aquatic habitat types and floral and faunal species richness found in the Sampur area and current threats to biodiversity in the area.

This publication presents the findings of the physical, ecological, archaeological and socio-economic assessments of Delft Island; a map of Delft Island, illustrating its present land-use patterns, as well as areas that should, potentially, be earmarked for future development and conservation activities; and recommendations for the sustainable development of Delft Island, with a special emphasis on the development of tourism.