The cottage of Ash and Kyle located at the top of south sloping clearing.
My first week at Aprovecho sustainable education community has reaffirmed my fascination with our inherent connection to ecological systems. Fellow friends of the community show constant interest in the local surrounding environment- examining the chickens' eating habits, identifying tree species, or making acorn flour. There is so much to learn when you are living closer to nature. The forrest and garden are the classroom, inspiring curiosity and critical observation.
My particular role in the community is finishing the community classroom structure. I have developed digital models to help visualize different interior finishes. The first days have been spent planning our options especially with on-site resources. Aprovecho has a large stock of grand fir and doug fir that has been harvested and milled on-site. This material will most likely become a ceiling finish. We are hoping to invest in a shaper so that we can cut our own tongue-n-groove or shiplap connections (this will account for any shrinkage in the wood). Another on-site resource is clay, a main element in earthen plaster. We still have to take samples around the property and consider the future of excavated areas- perhaps a pond or swale on contour.
So far, life at Aprovecho has been incredibly comfortable- yes, even when I have to poo in a bucket outside. I feel a sense of security as if the inhabitants of this forty acre plot are insulated from any outside forces. Who needs Safeway when there are jars of last years tomatoes, pears, or apples in the pantry? Even in January, we are eating hearty greens from the garden or lettuces from the greenhouse.
Regional environmental changes, however, have a considerable impact on Aprovecho. Over three years ago, the forest above Apro's watershed was clear-cut. Since then, residents have seen a steady decline in groundwater levels and we are now discussing opportunities for rainwater harvesting. Examples like these remind me of how interconnected we are to all species and systems.
