Permaculture Artisans

When the land that is now Sonoma County was entirely managed by Pomo and Miwok peoples, about two hundred years ago, good fire was their most important tool. This kept the oak woodland (their nut orchards) healthy and productive, and provided lush grass for browsers. It also reduced the chances of out-of-control fires by spacing out trees and reducing underbrush. 

On May 14th, we participated in a prescribed fire at the Sonoma Mountain Vernal Pools property managed by the . In the video clip, you can see someone using a drip torch to apply fire to the grass, and a control line running behind them that keeps the fire from crossing out of the fire boundary. 

The “cool” thing about prescribed fire is that it not only improves ecosystems, it also reduces the risk of future catastrophic wildfires. This prescribed fire was designed to reduce the populations of invasive grasses, increase fire-dependent native species, and improve the health of the grasslands. 

We can help to bring this practice back now. Ask us how. 

Permaculture Artisans is proud to sponsor the Sonoma County Herb Association / Sonoma County Herb Exchange Herbal Spring Fling Hootenanny on May 10th! We support and appreciate Sonoma County Herb Association's contributions to the community and their ecological mindset. Medicinal and herbal gardens are a wonderful way to feel a connection to the land and our ancestors. If you are inspired by the Spring Fling, reach out to us at Permaculture Artisans and have us help design your own herbal garden! The above photos are from last years Sacred Garden workshop hosted by Erik Ohlsen and Earth Activist Training ! This event is happening again this year in August if you are interested in attending! Come join this magical weekend of ecological landscaping, garden design, and traditional skills. Explore vital systems of sustenance developed by ancient peoples, discover how these systems are in use today, and how to incorporate them into your life and land.


Herbal Spring Fling Tickets:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/herbal-spring-fling-hootenanny-tickets-1310521879219
Sacred Garden workshop:
https://earthactivisttraining.org/sacred-garden/

Another successful installation complete! This design features a rain garden that captures and infiltrates stormwater, and a beautiful gabion retaining wall creating a productive, edible garden space with citrus trees! Mounded planting areas reuse the excavated soil on-site while providing habitat space for native, and low-water species - which will soon fill in and create a lush edible garden. New permeable paths and patio spaces allow ample space for relaxation and enjoying the view...