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Commenced:
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01/05/2005 |
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Submitted:
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16/10/2012 |
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Last updated:
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07/10/2015 |
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Location:
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Via del Monte, Arcola, La Spezia, IT |
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Website:
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pathtoselfsufficiency.blogspot.com |
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Climate zone:
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Mediterranean |
A steep sloping terraced plot planted with a mixture fruit and olive trees and for general food production to feed a family of 3.
We purchased the property in 2005 with a view of becoming food self sufficient. There are 2,000 m2 of land on some 18 terraces with an average gradient of 40%. It is planted with some 100 fruit and olive trees and also produces a variety of vegetables.
In December 2010 heavy rains cause catastrophic damage to the terraces, which we are still busy repairing. Since then we have converted to permaculture methods to try and stabilise the slope and replace the lost topsoil.
A caravan is on the site, enabling ourselves or helpers to stay on the property for some periods, as our house is 10km away. This year we have dug a pond along the keyline, to slow water loss. Also contour beds have been built for that purpose and to slow erosion.. The plan is to have the pond fully functional with as many edible plants as possible. The rest of the land is to be converted to a food forest with extensive tree planting planned for this winter / spring.
A simple compost toilet is in place as well as an outdoor cooking area with a clay pizza oven and BBQ. Helpers interested in learning are encouraged, as are people wanting to apply permaculture principles in practice.
Another plan for the winter is the construction of bat boxes to combat a mosquito problem. The pond also plays a role in this in increasing biodiversity.
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MemberA member is a permaculturist who has never taken a PDC course. These cannot become PDC teachers. Members may be novice or highly experienced permaculturists or anywhere in between. Watch their updates for evaluation. |
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Community ProjectCommunity projects are projects that help develop sustainable community interaction and increase localised resiliency. |
Passing on the land to caring hands
Off to new ventures
Long term volunteers needed in Italy
Needing someone to look after our project for a few months.
Species Count in Food Forest
A kind of year end stock take of useful species growing so far in my food forest and some of their uses
Food Forest Taking Shape
Planted a few more trees on our land for the food forest
Pond and slope management
Pond construction to slow water run-off and erosion as well as terracing and planting.