INHABIT

“Inhabit” is a documentary film project that aims to expand the reach and relatability of permaculture. Permaculture is a design science based on the observation and replication of patterns and relationships found in nature; it is an approach to designing sustainable systems of agriculture, community, economics, politics, and more.

We will travel in a solar and veggie-oil-powered bus documenting the people and projects currently giving voice to permaculture in the Northeast. We will look at permaculture practices in rural, suburban, and urban environments to break away from the conception of it being purely agricultural, and we will explore the breadth of its application to current local and global challenges - from issues of food, water, and medicine, to governance, economy, and culture.

Willow Crossing Farm: Productive Riparian Buffer

June 21, 2013  /  Costa Boutsikaris

We got to spend two days with Keith Morris at his farm in Johnson, VT. The land is planted full with nut trees, fruit trees, medicinal plants, pollinators and serves as a farm and nursery. The Lamoille River wraps around the property putting the entire farm in a flood plain creating a fascinating design challenge.

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We got to stay in his beautiful yurt which is built up on a flood proof raised platform along with a newly built outdoor kitchen that makes for fine dining in the morning light.

One of the biggest projects on the farm is the Productive Riparian Buffer which is combination of river bank erosion restoration and food/medicine production. Check out his site for more information Prospect Rock Permaculture.

 

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"The site itself is rich alluvial floodplain and floodplain terrace, including ponds, wetlands, upland forest, and over 3/4 miles of  Lamoille River edge.  While mismanaged in the past (from an ecological perspective), we are slowly creating a sanctuary for wildlife: birds, insects, rare and endangered wetland and riparian plants and animals; and connecting people to the natural world and the legacy of cultivated diversity."

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