Animal Systems | A Permaculture Design Course Handbook.

Having started on a 130 ha project in Alentejo, Portugal this week this is an appropriate release. Healing the planet with using the rhythmic pattern of animals in rotation, intensive grazing using animal impact, and layering the forest with fowl is a great way forward to altering the industrial model.
http://treeyopermacultureedu.wordpress.com/animal-systems/

via Fermentation | A Permaculture Design Course Handbook

.Besides being a direct contact with nature and making your zone 0 more multifunctional, ferments have true value in permaculture systems.  And no I am not talking about the yucky sauerkraut from the supermarket that we all despise nor the yogurt that is tasty because its pasteurization has been hidden by copious amounts of sugar.  Rather I am referring to one of the arts that is poised to further the local foods revolution.  To back this up with more than just knowing your daily eating habits will be zinged with flavor, the following are the five main reasons why we ferment:

low carbon preservation (no use of refrigeration or high heat)

predigestion

unlocks minerals and vitamins

reduces toxicity

probiotic

Catchment Calculations | A Permaculture Design Course Handbook.

Our latest EDU article continuing on the water chapter.  For all you math lovers like me, here is a chance to do some calculations that entail catchment possibilities.  Simple math reveals some startling numbers which is the topic of the next article for the following week. AND new header art from Anita Tirone.