The Turtle Conservation Project (TCP) of Sri Lanka started its pioneering conservation programme in Rekawa  in 1996.  The 'Turtle Watch' project aims to protect sea turtles in their natural habitat while providing an alternative source of income to people formerly dependent on the illegal collection of turtle eggs.  Previous to 'Turtle Watch', Rekawa was rich in resources but suffered from overexploitation, such as poaching turtle eggs, in order to support the families of community members. These means of income proved harmful to the ecology.  TCP research shows that community members need an alternative source of income before they will participate in efforts to end these harmful practices.

From 1996 till 2000 TCP worked towards the establishment of a sustainable "in-situ" nest protection (in the natural environment) and research programme in Rekawa. In 2000 the survey and egg protection was handed over to the governmental Department of Wildlife Conservation. Nowadays Wildlife officers move the eggs, just after laying, to a protected area on Rekawa Beach (ex-situ protection).  In August 2003, TCP started a new program in Kosgoda including research and in-situ nest protection.

TCP has also established a small community library in Rekawa and has carried out English language classes in Rekawa since January 1994. Volunteer teachers still teach English to improve the knowledge of the Turtle Watch guides. TCP is also sponsoring primary schools in Rekawa, Kalpitiya, Bundala, Panadura and Kosgoda (teaching materials, equipment). Education & awareness exhibitions are held and TCP staff runs a school lecture program in the coastal areas of Sri Lanka.

Other projects include a mangrove rehabilitation programme that has been set up by TCP in Rekawa and Kalpitiya and a turtle rescue programme that includes research on rescued turtles, which were caught in fishing nets, tagging and releasing them.