Many know that the path we are on as a global society is not sustainable for people or the Earth. For over 30 years, Permaculture as a grass-roots movement has been growing, deepening, and spreading all over the world with a focus on finding practical sustainable solutions. As an ethical design science, Permaculture offers a relevant strategy for individuals, communities, and organizations who are seeking social and ecological change with a deeper understanding and awareness of natural patterns.
This workshop is led by Joshua Evans, a Certified Permaculture Designer and Organic Farmer. He and his family live and volunteer at Rolling Ridge. They share a long-standing passion for sustainable homesteading, healthy living, and nature awareness. This workshop will combine classroom theory and concepts with contextual hands on explorations of what Permaculture strategies can look like in practice.
Topics covered will include:
- A History and Definition of Permaculture
- Ethics and Principles
- Understanding Ecological Communities and Patterns
- Nature Awareness Skills and Interaction Techniques
- An introduction to Gardening and sustainable food systems such as: small-scale bio-intensive gardening and perennial vegetables, forest gardening, farming the woods, foraging
- Additional Resources for continuing Education
Cost of Workshop: Sliding scale of $150 - $175 - Includes 2 nights lodging at the Retreat House, and six homemade meals. Students will also receive a hand-out and access to notes and additional resources. This workshop cannot take the place of the standard 72 hour Permaculture Design Certification Course. The goal is to introduce the basics of permaculture and to encourage further interests in human and ecological well-being.
To register: Please send a registration form with a $50 deposit made out to Rolling Ridge Study Retreat and write "Intro to Permaculture" in memo line. 138 Tupelo Lane, Harper’s Ferry, WV 25425 (If cost is a hard-ship, please write or call about how we can make this work for you.)
Rolling Ridge Study Retreat sits nestled in 1400 acres of beautiful, protected woods in the Blue Ridge Mountains just east of the Shenandoah River. There are creeks, trails, meadows and wildlife to connect with and we hope to create a bit of space for folks to explore during the weekend. Visit our website at www.rollingridge.net for more information about Rolling Ridge or write jsbevans@gmail.com for questions about the workshop.