It’s interesting how a discussion thread on the forum about off roading driving has now evolved into a discussion about global warming and whether climate change is a man-made phenomenon.

It’s a fascinating subject and ties in nicely with previous discussions of permaculture on the Isle of Wight.

So what is permaculture? I hear some of you ask ….

Permaculture is a mix of many ideas and skills, a combination of traditional farming practices and modern science and technology. It is very closely modelled on ecosystems which are natural communities of wild flowers and animals. This makes it different to most problem-focussed methods of agriculture and gardening.

Key concepts include ‘creating edible ecosystems’ and ‘designing sustainable human habitats’. It applies to window-boxes, veggie-plots, gardens, allotments, community parks, field shelters and even farms!

So there! Now, anyone interested in Permaculture and it’s effect on the Island should think about heading up to Ryde on Saturday 7th April at Aldermoor Farm, Upton Road, Ryde for the next Island Permaculture Group meeting.

David Simon of Aldermoor EarthWorks who run Country Skills, Ecological Issues & Green Workshops says all are welcome and they will be discussing organic gardening, DIY building, recycling, sustainable energies, rainwater harvest, etc. No cost involved, just turn up, take it all in and go home inspired. Sounds brilliant.

Call Dave Simon on 614795 for more details.

I’ll be running a separate piece on Aldermoor EarthWorks later in the week (they do an incredible amount of really interesting stuff) with details of a Swimathon for Pet Awareness Month to be held on 14th April.

[Image courtesy of Island Permaculture Group]

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• Island Permaculture Group
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• Ventnor Permaculture Meeting
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• IW Permaculture Meeting
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• Ventnor Permaculture Group: Vegetables to Sow in July
  Angie’s excellent permaculture blog is always worth checking out on...