Permaculture is the design of sustainable human habitats. It is based on the observation of natural systems and uses ecological principles to increase diversity and productivity of local human ecosystems. Permaculture designs incorporate food, energy, and shelter for people and animals while linking the needs and outputs of each element of the system. The result is a dynamic yet stable system that sustains itself. Permaculture designs can be developed for any climate and on any scale, from balconies to entire villages. (www.bctheorganicway.com/glossary.htm)

Practicing Permaculture doesn't have to be an all or nothing proposition. Here are photos of a few things I've done around my own home in suburban Savannah. (For more info on permaculture be sure to visit the links I've added to the sidebar at the right.)

RAIN BARRELS, MUSHROOMS, BIO-CONVERSION & CHICKEN COOPS AT MY HOUSE

THESE TWO BARRELS CAN FEED EITHER THE FRONT POND OR BACK POND VIA GARDEN HOSES.

THE MUSHROOMS LOGS WERE INOCULATED IN MARCH OF 2009

THE BIO-POD CONVERTS ORGANIC WASTE- FROM KITCHEN, DOGS, ROAD KILL... INTO COMPACT LITTLE LARVA PACKAGES THAT SELF-HARVEST AND CAN BE FED TO ANY LIVESTOCK FOR A PROTEIN SOURCE. THE BY-PRODUCT OF COMPOST TEA IS USEFUL AS WELL.

THESE TWIN A-FRAME COOPS HAVE BECOME STATIONARY WHILE THE PADDOCKS MOVE IN ROTATION AROUND THEM, ALLOWING FOR NEW PLANTINGS OF FORAGE FOODS FOR THE CHICKENS. THIS WAS TAKEN IN THE MIDDLE OF MOVING DAY.