The meeting welcomed representatives from our key partners, including Madulsima Plantations, Maskeliya Plantations, Horana Plantations, Dilmah, Dilmah Conservation, Kahawatte Plantations, Kelani-Breama Plantations, Alliance Finance, Olu Water, and Ceylon Tea Trails. This unique mix of tea companies, tourism operators, and other private sector entities underscores the collaborative spirit that is the bedrock of the PRFC’s success.

The session was opened by Malik Fernando, Chairman of Resplendent Ceylon who spoke passionately about the importance of this joint effort. He highlighted how the corridor is a testament to what can be achieved when various sectors unite under a common goal. The PRFC isn’t just a project; it’s a model for collaborative conservation in Sri Lanka, demonstrating how business and biodiversity can thrive side-by-side.

The core of the meeting was led by Anjali Watson and Andrew Kittle, the co-founders of the Wilderness and Wildlife Conservation Trust (WWCT). For years, their scientific work has provided the critical data needed to manage the corridor effectively.

Anjali and Andrew presented their latest findings on the leopard population thriving across the ridge. The discussion delved into the observed leopard behaviour—from their movement patterns and diet to crucial details on their reproduction cycles. A key takeaway was the role of the leopard as an “umbrella species.” By protecting the apex predator, the partners are effectively safeguarding the entire ecosystem—the water sources, the forest cover, and all the species that live beneath the leopard’s “umbrella.”

The second half of the meeting focused on actionable strategies to enhance the corridor’s protection in the coming year, with partners discussing ways to strengthen conservation efforts across the board. Key strategies included expanding awareness programs for local communities and estate workers, engaging the next generation through school programs, strengthening snare patrolling to protect leopards from a major threat, and continuing reforestation efforts to improve habitat quality and the ecological integrity of the corridor.

The 2025 PRFC Partners Meeting was a resounding success, reaffirming the shared commitment to protect this incredible part of Sri Lanka’s wilderness. The dedication of every partner ensures that the Peak Ridge Forest Corridor will continue to be a safe haven for the highland leopards for years to come.