It has been recognised that the wise use of natural resources is a necessity and no longer a choice. For the first time in Sri Lanka, such an attempt has been made in the Master Plan for development of Muthurajawela. This plan aims to minimise the adverse effects of development, balance all the foreseeable costs and benefits, not only in financial terms, but also in terms of functions and services of natural eco systems. Three main issues regarding development that has been addressed in this plan are: the extent to which existing eco systems function; the economic yield that could be sustained; and the manner in which anticipated benefits of investment could be sustained in the long term.