The Context

As a global community we are living in a time of immense challenge with climate change and the impending transition from a petroleum-based economy.

As a consumer culture, we have gotten further and further removed from our agricultural roots and our ability to meet our own needs. Many people lack the basic skills and tools needed to provide for ourselves. As individuals we need to build skills and knowledge and share them with the larger community.

We live in a region, the northern temperate climates, where we face the challenge of growing food year-around and providing heat through the long winter months.

Our Culture

In permaculture we have a set of ethics and design principles that we strive to apply in all aspects of our lives. We believe that by applying these principles we will transform relationships within the natural world. Through this process we create culture that is holistic and healthy.

We are an inclusive, multicultural community with a strong, engaged membership.

We have many ways for people of all ages to connect into the community and participate at whatever level works best.

Our Niche

We are a community of learners, designers and problem-solvers. We have many tools at our disposal both physical and intellectual. We have members with different skills, talents, resources, and passions.

We live in urban, suburban and rural environments. Our focus is on small-scale, eco-systemic solutions. We have significant core strengths and interest in food production, plants, and permaculture design. We leverage these strengths while building knowledge in other areas such as natural building, water systems, and energy systems.

Through research, demonstration, education, and community building we provide guidance in transitioning to an abundant and vibrant post-petroleum livelihood.
By designing solutions to the problems we face we create opportunities for microenterprises providing income for ourselves and our work.

Our Organization

Our vision, anchored in permaculture ethics and design principles, guides the decision-making process.

Our organization provides leadership and hope by enthusiastically tackling the problems of today and directing our organizational energy towards creating an abundant future.