BADUNG, BALINEWS.ID – Renowned eco-luxury resort Bambu Indah has introduced an innovative, nature-based solution to agricultural challenges by releasing eight barn owls (Tyto alba) in Bongkasa Village, Abiansemal, on April 6, 2026.
The ceremonial release, held at Pura Dalem Wantilan, marks a significant step toward sustainable pest management while preserving Bali’s delicate ecosystem.
The initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Owl Tower Bali Foundation, aims to reduce rat populations in rice fields without relying on harmful chemical pesticides. Covering approximately 40 hectares of farmland, the program offers a long-term ecological solution to recurring crop losses.
The event also drew participation from students and representatives of Udayana University, highlighting its educational value in promoting environmentally responsible practices.
Bambu Indah founders John Hardy and Cynthia Hardy, along with their son Orin Hardy and Director Ratheesh Raj, attended the event alongside local leaders and community stakeholders.
Officials from Bongkasa Village and representatives of the traditional Subak irrigation system were also present, emphasizing strong collaboration between the tourism sector and local agricultural communities.
Barn owls are known as highly effective natural predators of rats, making them a sustainable alternative to toxic pest control methods.
“Rat poison often creates broader environmental harm,” said John Hardy.
“By restoring natural predators, we are working in harmony with nature rather than against it,” he added.
The initiative is expected to not only protect rice yields but also maintain soil health and biodiversity in the surrounding environment.
According to Orin Hardy, the program goes beyond technical pest control and reflects a deeper commitment to safeguarding Bali’s cultural and ecological heritage. He noted that rice fields are integral to the island’s identity, sustained for generations through the Subak system, and must be protected as living ecosystems rather than mere landscapes.
The success of the initiative relies heavily on community involvement and awareness. Local residents are encouraged to protect the owls and their habitats, minimize disturbances, and avoid practices that could threaten their survival.
Educational engagement, particularly with university students, is also seen as key to ensuring long-term sustainability.
Through this initiative, Bambu Indah demonstrates how the hospitality industry can actively contribute to environmental conservation and community empowerment.
The event concluded with a traditional megibung communal dining experience, symbolizing unity and shared responsibility in preserving Bali’s natural and cultural heritage.
About Bambu Indah
Founded in 2005, Bambu Indah is a unique eco-resort nestled in the Sayan Valley of Ubud. Known for its distinctive blend of antique Javanese architecture and innovative bamboo design, the resort serves as a “living lab” for regenerative living.
With 24 bespoke houses overlooking lush rice fields and river landscapes, Bambu Indah continues to attract global visitors seeking a deeper connection with nature and sustainable hospitality. (*)