Relational Farming
Sunday, July 9th Afternoon
Some of the first questions folks ask me are: Do you have a problem with predators? deer? pests? rodents? frosts?
And my answer is always a resounding, no. Simply because I approach my farm systems with the idea that the deer, elk, lions, bears, eagles, wood rats, and climate were here before I or my farm were and so I need to include their needs along with the needs of the farm, my crops, livestock, pets, and myself!
This concept is very context based (as is ALL gardening, farming, and other land-tending practices) so none of my systems or methods are fixed. Our discussion will focus on the 'why' and 'how' behind the systems and methods I have used and how the 'where' influences those needs and decisions.
I'm not trying to turn 'problems' into 'solutions' (gag), instead I recognize that I don't really own the land I am living, farming, and working on but that I share it with my other-than-human neighbors and instead of relying on conflict resolution tactics (which is typically fatal for rodents, pests, deer, and predators) I would rather not let conflicts arise.
This is a particularly broad ranging and often philosophical topic that frequently requires a substantial worldview shift by us.
- Come prepared to think deeply & broadly, decenter your own needs, and build a different relationship with the non-human world we are surrounded by and depend upon.
You'll receive a separate email about one week before the event with details. If you have any questions before then, please ask!