Ruk Rakaganno took over the management of the IFS-Popham Arboretum, Dambulla in May 2005. The Arboretum was established in 1963 by Mr. Sam Popham, an Englishman on 7.5 acres of scrub jungle in Dambulla. Dambulla is located in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, and is very much part of its cultural and natural history. Twenty seven acres were added by the Institute of Fundamental Studies, which managed the Arboretum from 2001 – 2005, when the Arboretum was gifted by Mr. Popham upon his departure from Sri Lanka.
After taking over the management in May 2005, Ruk Rakaganno established a visitor center in the cottage once occupied by Mr. Popham. The center provides visitors with information on the Arboretum, the species to be seen there, and research conducted there on growth patterns of the valuable Dry Zone trees, the effects of chena cultivation etc.
Walking trails have been established, and selected trees labeled, with their botanical and common names. Knowledgeable guides are available to show visitors round the grounds.
Research officers at the Arboretum are conducting studies into the tree species and other fauna and flora to be found there. The Arboretum is now also a center for the study of the environment amongst school children, especially those in surrounding communities. There is no other similar facility in the district, despite the importance of the timber, medicinal and agricultural value of its flora, for human beings and the fauna of the forests and fields.
Mr. Popham’s Arboretum is unique not only in the methods he developed to establish it, but also in that it is the only such Arboretum in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. The forests and trees of the dry zone are irreplaceable, and this Arboretum has a vital role to play in their ongoing protection and propagation.
The Arboretum, Dambulla provides an ideal location for those interested in trees and their associated fauna, to learn about the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s dry zone. Groups of visitors are welcome, but advised to book in advance.
A resource Center is planned when finances are available. A nursery of endemic and valuable plants has been established to augment income and to ensure the survival of valuable and endangered species.