I am a Licensed Master Electrical Contractor in the State of Michigan, and currently work in the hospitality industry as a multimedia/technical specialist. I have recently completed the Online PDC with Geoff Lawton and have been seeking opportunities to express the knowledge imparted. My urban setting is merely 100'x140' with two buildings, my 1800 sq ft home, and an 800 sq ft garage.
I discovered the permaculture community through research in self sufficiency methods and the use of aquaponics to become more self reliant through naturally produced food systems. Hailing from the Great Lakes State, I have always held interest in raising fish, and to find the option to grow food as well as fish, was very appealing.
Winter has been harsh in Michigan, so the plan to begin the process to establish my design has been difficult. The PDC ended in September if including the bonus earthworks program Geoff offered. So the cold had already begun and the most I've accomplish was starting my compost pile to be ready to use in raised beds around my property. The design I created prior to starting the PDC, initially included a Walipini and has since grown in concept with Geoffs educational influence. There is now a solar heat pump to be included, and irrigation walkways to distribute water catchments. Swales have made their presence in the design, as well as beneficial companion planting methods drawn from a document released by the Midwest PRI in Illinois.