I got information and experience about how to be in the world in a new way - so vast it will take me a long time to digest it, yet so easy and simple it is immediately useful and understood. I wish I could give everyone a gift of this class, and I am so happy to be with others who are truly doing their work in the world. - Fagim S., Permaculture student
This course has changed the way I see the world and how I see myself as a person. It has reminded me of the passions I've had my whole life and given me words and skills to express my values. - Caterine A., Permaculture student
This knowledge was essential for my professional development. Even after years of studying landscape health, I did not know the first thing about restoration methods. I am able to do a better job as a landscape architect after taking this program. - Natasha M., Sustainability Training Student
I enjoyed the course, all of it. The hands-on aspect of the planting, gardening, building one rock dams along with deeper understanding of sustainable living practices ... It was all what I'm interested in. - Mason J., Permaculture student
I enjoyed everything about the class - information, hands-on practical component, being outdoors, working with other people, sharing knowledge! - Ric G., Permaculture Student
... and - here is course participant personal blog with detailed account and opinion about this course (2012) http://sunflowerriver.org/blog/?p=245
Albuquerque 6th Annual Weekend Permaculture Design Course - 2012
Course Syllabus is found here...
Join this 7-weekend class to learn ins and outs of permaculture design and sustainable living. The class meets over a period of 3.5 months in South Valley location (at an Urban Permaculture Homestead, home of Leslie Buerk).
Dates
Two weekends in January, February, March and one weekend in April = 7 weekends total
2012 dates
January 14-15 Ethics, Principles of Natural Systems, Methodologies of Design, Zone/Sector, Analysis of Elements, Observation
January 28-29 Pattern, Classical Landscape Profiles, Humid Landscape & Arid Landscape
February 11-12 Erosion Control, Landscape Restoration, Runoff management, rainwater harvesting and reuse Field Trip
March 3 - Trees and Forest Gardening, Plant Guilds
March 4 - Gardening and Farming, Field Trip
March 17 Natural Building, Using Passive Solar Energy, Alternative Building Methods, Green Design
March 18 Appropriate Technology Field Trip
April 21-22 Invisible Structures, EcoVillages, Sustainable Economic Alternatives, Communities
April 28-29 Final Design by the class groups
Class topics include design principles for sustainable living, permaculture ethics and methodology, dryland restoration techniques, backyard animals and gardens, natural building methods, renewable energy applications, rainwater harvesting, food forests, community building and more.
The class is taught by a dynamic local team that includes Scott Pittman, one of the most renowned permaculture teachers in the US; Michael Reed, local farmer and community organizer; Leslie Buerk, green architect; Christian Meuli, permaculture practitioner with nearly 30 years of dryland restoration experience, Jen Zawacki, knowledgeable food forester, gardener, beekeeper, soil builder and permaculture practitioner, and others.
The weekend format helps to incorporate class information into your daily life at a slower pace. The group meets in the classroom and also attends a series of field trips to local show places. Hands-on learning is incorporated in this class on occasion. At the end of the class students engage in a design project to benefit their community. This is a certificate-level class.
LOGISTICS:
The program is offered in a peaceful residential neighborhood, in strawbale studio located in South Valley of Albuquerque. Classes are held from 9:00 AM to 5:00PM, on Saturdays and Sundays. Workshop participants should expect reading and homework assignments. There will be a mix of classroom, field trips, hands-on, homework and group work. This is certificate course.
Discounts: Two and more attendants applying together receive 10% discount, contact us for details. In some cases we may offer 10% for non-profits.
Cancellation refunds: this program requires a considerable preparation on our part. Late cancellations by students hurt the program and its participants. For that reason, there are no refunds, but you can credit your workshop fees (minus the non-refundable deposit) towards the same class in the future, to be used within one year. If the program is canceled by us, you receive a full refund.
REGISTRATION/PAYMENT: Course non-refundable deposit of $300 secures your space in the class. Full payment is due two weeks before class starts. Please submit your Essay at the time of registration.
Last day to enroll: two days before the class start date.
Instructors:
Scott Pittman, Leslie Buerk, Michael Reed, Christian Meuli and guests. Read more about our teaching team here
