The documentary film on the project completed and shown at the World Water Day Forum in Kyoto.

The results of project SRL/01/27

Ecological Impacts: - A total of 155,776 trees, shrubs, climbers and other plants in 205 species were planted in a 2 year period resulting in 20% increase in the canopy closure and an increase in the quantum of biomass in the soil by the addition of leaf litter, increase in moisture retained in the soil specifically in the forest gardens. Increase in the recreation of hahitat for biodiversity evident in the increase in frequency, populations and species diversity of birds, butterflies, frogs, skinks and soil fauna seen in the areas restored. Re-emergence of springs in areas that had been planted with vegetation suggested once dormant aquifers had re-charged and had come alive. Research conducted on fresh water fish as indicatior of stream water quality identified three species that could be used; this informationis vital when evaluating the potable water quality standards of stream water for the entire area. The planting of several hard wood, tree species in long cycles of growth would also contribute to the sequestering of carbon over an extended period of time.

Impacts on poverty reduction: - Increase in income generation, the planting of several utility species of plants that would provide food, fuelwood, fodder, medicine, timber to the farmers. These farmers had depended on rain-fed, chena crops like kurakkan, maize, chillies and bananas to provide them with an income throughout the year. Income increases are seen from annual crops and from bananas, pienapple and pepper. Resulted in an improved nutritional status of the farmer and family, as there is easy access to leafy and other vegetables, yams, tubers and fruits grown using organic regimes of cultivation.

Impacts on local empowerment: - Training of farmers in organic agriculture, analog forestry, ecological farming of annual crops using traditional techniques like kem, nursery establishment/maintenance and food processing.

5 adult & 2 childrens groups were formed after social mobilisation. They supported each other in all home garden activities, a credit scheme initiated and dialogue and activities started with local government and other agencies.

Sanitaition - basic hygiene and toilet use training for estate populace whose living conditions are poor. 21 toilets constructed which were essential.

other impacts - Near total cessation of the illicit felling. Reduced incidence of forest fires by propelling the farmers to take a firm stand when outsiders come to perform acts of wanton destruction. An overall increase in income generation and food secruity, those who worked as wage labourers now work on their own lands spent only 2 - 3 days a week as wage labourers. This transformation of labourer into a farmer is a perhaps the greatest achievement and the most difficult.