One of the key aspects of an ecovillage is sustainability. In simple terms this means trying not to deplete of the earth's resources through human activity, so that the way of life of future generations will not be diminished. All organic farming avoids the use of chemical additives and non-organic methods. The best organic farming focuses on building soil biodiversity.

Our farm could be called "beyond organic." By this we mean that we farm using permaculture - permanent agriculture, or permanent culture - principles. Our approach aims to ensure that the soil and the surrounding ecosystem are enhanced and that natural cycles are not degraded. To do this we: a) minimize tillage that degrades soil structure, b) grow crops for compost which is then spread on the beds to build soil organic matter and add nutrients, and, c) restore and enhance the surrounding ecosystem.

Communities have been farming in place for thousands of years in many parts of the world. However, to be able to achieve permaculture on a farm in North America is a demanding task. One of the main reasons for this is our reliance on petroleum and its products. From planting crops, to harvesting, to sale of products, petroleum-fueled vehicles are used extensively. It is challenging for us to learn and practice sustainable ways.

Our farm team has looked far and wide for better, less invasive, ways of doing things. One approach that we have adapted to our use is biointensive mini-farming. John Jeavons of Ecology Action in California developed biointensive methods as a way of achieving sustainability. This approach makes extensive use of raised, well-dug beds, timing of transplants, spacing of plants to create a micro-climate and the growing of carbon and calorie crops. The latter are a source of both biomass (carbon), and nutrients for compost, and food (calories). Examples of carbon and calorie crops include many grains, from which one can harvest the seed and compost the stalk of the plant.

The EcoVillage strongly supports our approach and farm team members and interns have helped with varius aspects of ecosystem resoration. During 2004, the EcoVillage cooperative planted hundreds of native trees and shrubs along the banks of the stream that traverses the property. This streamside planting is part of a multi-year project to restore the riparian ecosystem. The benefit to the farm will be immense. A more diverse and balanced ecosystem with native plants that attract birds and other beneficial predators will support the farm and provide natural controls of pests.

Contact the farm team.