Begin the day by learning about the water-retention systems at The Ground with founder Brenda Smola-Foti and Jarad Taillefer of Green Phase Environmental, and begin clearing invasive species surrounding the water-retention installation on the farm. Enjoy lunch catered by Humble Spirit and a learning session with Lynda Mueller, Director of PLUG, the Permaculture Land Users Group of Oregon. Then continue the clearing of invasive species, ensuring another year of successful water retention.
What to Wear
Waterproof boots, layers & a rain jacket, gardening gloves
What to Bring
A water bottle to fill at the freshwater spring on the farm
Your curiosity about water retention landscapes
What to Expect
An immersive experience, learning how the structures work and helping to maintain them, while learning from the experts
About Brenda Smola-Foti
Brenda Smola-Foti is an artist-turned farmer and the founder of Tabula Rasa Farms, which is dedicated to regenerative agriculture practices that benefit the animals and land. In 2015, Brenda worked with Zach Weiss of Water Stories to develop water retention installations that ensure that the farmland can exist on its own water and rainwater resources.
About Jarad Taillefer
Jarad Taillefer is a restoration practitioner who believes that guiding people to connect with nature is the most crucial aspect of successful restoration work. Jarad came to the Willamette Valley in 2020 to learn from Zach Weiss, of Water Stories. He is now developing his own business, Green Phase Environmental, specializing in water retention landscape installations.
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