Articles from the Sanctuary

What we have learned growing food, building soil, and living well on our homestead in Central New York, shared as plainly as we can.

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Keyline Design and Object Permanence

Keyline design is a holistic land management system that addresses the relationships between soil, water, plants, and animals. P.A. Yeomans introduced this concept in his 1954 book, "Water for Every Farm," outlining a method that would optimize the use of water resources in agriculture.

One of the key principles within Yeomans' Keyline design is the concept of "object permanence." Derived from child psychology, the term "object permanence" refers to a child's ability to understand that objects continue to exist even when they are out of sight. In the context of Keyline design, this principle implies creating lasting and sustainable changes to the landscape.

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Permaculture Practices & Soil Health Kevin Wallace Permaculture Practices & Soil Health Kevin Wallace

Vernal Pools

Vernal pools, those transient water bodies that come to life with the arrival of spring, stand as hidden gems within the diverse tapestry of ecosystems. Their ephemeral nature, filling up during specific seasons only to dry up as summer unfolds, adds a layer of intrigue to these unique habitats. Let's delve into the world of vernal pools, exploring their definition, functions in cold temperate climates, the array of species they harbor, and the critical components that make them essential to preserve.

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Composting: A Sustainable Way to Improve Soil Quality

Composting is a natural process of decomposing organic matter into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. The benefits of composting include reducing waste, improving soil health, and promoting plant growth. There are various composting methods, each with its advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the different types of composting systems and their respective benefits and limitations.

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Water Harvesting

Water is a precious resource that is essential for life. However, many regions around the world are facing water scarcity due to population growth, climate change, and inefficient water use. By using water harvesting techniques, we can reduce our dependence on municipal water supplies and contribute to water conservation efforts.

In addition to reducing water consumption and conserving water resources, water harvesting can also help to mitigate the impacts of climate change. As temperatures rise and weather patterns become more unpredictable, we are likely to see more frequent droughts and water shortages. Water harvesting can help to build resilience to these impacts by providing a reliable source of water for households, gardens, and communities.

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Ways to Build Soil

Permaculture is a holistic approach to agriculture and land management that seeks to mimic natural ecosystems found in nature. A key component of permaculture is the building and maintenance of healthy soils, which are the foundation for healthy plants and a thriving ecosystem. In this article, we will explore some of the ways in which permaculturists build soil.

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Permaculture Ethics: A Foundation for Sustainable Living

Permaculture is based on a set of three core ethics that provide a foundation for sustainable living. These ethics are care for the earth, care for people, and fair share. They provide a framework for designing systems that work in harmony with nature, support human well-being, and ensure that resources are shared fairly.

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