brook's bend farm landscape plan

Brook’s Bend FarmSEAN WALSHConway School of Landscape Design332 S. Deerfield Road, PO Box 179, Conway, MA 01341Autumn [email protected]

1 Vision & Goals2 Context3 Legal4 Soil5 Slope & Drainage6 Access & Circulation7 Summary Analysis

8 Alternative A9 Alternative B10 Alternative C11 Alternatice D12 Water Management13 Organization & Relationships14 Design Directives

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Sean Walsh Conway School of Landscape Design332 S. Deerfield Road, Conway MAwww.csld.edu

Landscape Plan forLandscape Plan for

Brook’s Bend FarmBrook’s Bend FarmPermaculture - Land Stewardship - Nature AwarenessPermaculture - Land Stewardship - Nature Awareness

119 Old Sunderland Road, Montague MA 119 Old Sunderland Road, Montague MA

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Not for construction. Th is drawing is part of a student project and is not based upon a legal survey. Autumn 2010

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Brook’s Bend is committed to fostering ecological stewardship, community involvement, personal awareness, and spiritual connection through land-based education and training. We aim to explore thoughtful and ecologically based solutions for creating a more regenerative and resilient society.

Create learning spaces- enable land-based learning that is immersive and experiential - provide all-season shelter for classes and workshops- create education opportunities woven into the farm, land, and buildings

Research & Demonstrate- integrate ecological, sustainable design strategies, permaculture, experimental & alternative agricultural methods, and crop testing- establish regional permaculture center and demonstration site

Provide additional on-farm home for Al & Suzanne- site single family house on property- ensure privacy in proximity to farm activity

House farm workers/apprentices/interns/program guests- site long-term apartments for farm manager & family- site short-term apartments for apprentices & interns- provide overnight space for visitors- site supporting facilities: offi ces, library, meeting room

Upgrade farm facilities- site greenhouses - create processing space- create propagation space- site woodworking shop- site storage space for equipment, hay, wool, and produce- site commercial kitchen- site farm store

Th e namesake of Brook’s Bend Farm is the change in direction that Th e namesake of Brook’s Bend Farm is the change in direction that Cranberry Pond Brook carves through the land as water fl ows into the Cranberry Pond Brook carves through the land as water fl ows into the nearby Connecticut River. Th e name Brook’s Bend was chosen as a nearby Connecticut River. Th e name Brook’s Bend was chosen as a metaphor for a positive change in direction. metaphor for a positive change in direction.

Th e world is rapidly changing and the challenges of the future, though Th e world is rapidly changing and the challenges of the future, though unknown, are likely to include the issues of food security, peak oil, and unknown, are likely to include the issues of food security, peak oil, and climate instability. Th ese global challenges call for active participation climate instability. Th ese global challenges call for active participation at all levels. On the local level we can strengthen and rebuild our local at all levels. On the local level we can strengthen and rebuild our local communities, support local farms, diversify crops, and relearn the skills communities, support local farms, diversify crops, and relearn the skills necessary to create resilient communities.necessary to create resilient communities.

Suzanne Webber and Al Miller are the current owners, farmers and Suzanne Webber and Al Miller are the current owners, farmers and engaged stewards of Brook’s Bend Farm. Th ey have teamed up with engaged stewards of Brook’s Bend Farm. Th ey have teamed up with Jono Neiger, a local permaculture designer, and others to broaden Jono Neiger, a local permaculture designer, and others to broaden the vision of the farm and create a land-based center of education, the vision of the farm and create a land-based center of education, demonstration, and research. Th e focus of this endeavor is ecological demonstration, and research. Th e focus of this endeavor is ecological agriculture, permaculture, nature awareness, and community agriculture, permaculture, nature awareness, and community collaboration. collaboration.

Suzanne and Al are planning for a time when they will not be the Suzanne and Al are planning for a time when they will not be the primary managers of the land. Th ey wish to ensure that the land will primary managers of the land. Th ey wish to ensure that the land will remain a community resource that is active, engaged, and inclusive in remain a community resource that is active, engaged, and inclusive in serving the local and regional community. Th ey are currently discussing serving the local and regional community. Th ey are currently discussing alternatives, such as the creation of a non-profi t organization, to ensure alternatives, such as the creation of a non-profi t organization, to ensure the stewardship of this vision and this land. the stewardship of this vision and this land.

Th e vision for Brook’s Bend Farm is a place where ideas, techniques, methods, processes, and economies are explored. A vision statement for Brook’s Bend might read as follows:

GoalsGoals

Challenges:Challenges:environmental degradationenvironmental degradationuncertain food securityuncertain food securityuncertain water securityuncertain water securityeconomic crisiseconomic crisispolitical turmoilpolitical turmoil

Opportunities:Opportunities:enhance ecological awareness & stewardshipenhance ecological awareness & stewardshipimprove resilient, local food systemsimprove resilient, local food systemsmanage water thoughtfullymanage water thoughtfullystrengthen local economy strengthen local economy engage local communityengage local community

Brook’s Bend has begun the process of crystallizing their vision into reality. Brook’s Bend has begun the process of crystallizing their vision into reality. Th is document is a beginning exploration of what that vision might become. Th is document is a beginning exploration of what that vision might become.

Brook’s Bend FarmBrook’s Bend FarmLand Stewardship - Nature AwarenessLand Stewardship - Nature Awareness

PermaculturePermaculture

Education - Demonstration - ResearchEducation - Demonstration - Research





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Region

Brook’s Bend Farm is located in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts. A part of the larger Connecticut River Valley, the Pioneer Valley comprises three counties with a combined population of over 680,000. Although the town of Montague is located within Franklin County, the most rural county in the state, it occupies a transition point between urban and rural landscapes as it is close to several large population centers.

SiteSite

RegionRegion

Site 90 Acres 65% Forested 28% Cleared 88% Pasture 8% Cultivated 4% Built

Th e site is traversed by the meandering Cranberry Pond Brook and has numerous related wetlands.

Brook’s Bend is very accessible, located within a 15-mile radius of the major population and cultural centers of Northampton, Amherst, Greenfi eld, Deerfi eld, and 1½ miles from Montague Center. A 6-mile drive from Interstate 91, near state highways 47, 63, 5&10, and utilized as a cutthrough route between Franklin County Bikeway routes.

Currently, a variety of organizations operate on site, including several programs under the umbrella of the Vermont Wilderness School, Wolf Tree Programs, and therapeutic excursions for veterans and for women from the county jail. An herbalist and apothecary grows herbs on the premises.

Focus AreaA focus area of approximately 7 acres centered around the buildings and the hub of activity was chosen as the most important region on the site in relation to the goals. Th e focus area is bisected by Old Sunderland Road which passes between a 1751 farmhouse on the west and both barns, workshop, and most of the farmland on the east.

Brook’s Bend is currently a working farm with a focus on sheep and poultry production. Th e forest on the property is managed and selectively cut for timber. Brook’s Bend regularly hosts wilderness awareness programs and occasionally hosts other events and classes.

Focus AreaFocus Area

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Th e Connecticut River Valley contains some of the most fertile farmland in the region. Brook’s Bend Farm falls within a highly productive agricultural “green belt.”

Organic agriculture, community supported agriculture, local food movements, cooperatives, and farmers markets all have strong community support.Brook’s Bend has the advantages of a local customer base, a supportive community, fertile land, and connection to ecologically intact natural areas.

Cranberry Pond Brook

Cranberry Pond Brook

Old S

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Old S

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FarmhouseFarmhouse

WorkshopWorkshop

Brown BarnBrown Barn

Red BarnRed Barn





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Agriculture Preservation RestrictionAgriculture Preservation Restriction

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800 FEET400-ft0 20050

Riverfront Protection Area Th e Rivers Protection Act establishes a riverfront protection area, a 200-foot-wide corridor on each side of a perennial river or stream, measured from the mean annual high-water line of the river. Intermittent streams are not subject to the Rivers Protection Act. Th e protection area around Cranberry Pond Brook streams are not subject to the Rivers Protection Act. Th e protection area around Cranberry Pond Brook forms a 400-foot-wide ribbon that bisects the eastern portion of the farm, curves across the northern forms a 400-foot-wide ribbon that bisects the eastern portion of the farm, curves across the northern portion, and continues as a 200-foot-wide zone around the back of the property to the west. Th is portion, and continues as a 200-foot-wide zone around the back of the property to the west. Th is area encompasses approximately 30 acres or 33% of the property. Work in the riverfront area is only area encompasses approximately 30 acres or 33% of the property. Work in the riverfront area is only allowed when no practicable alternatives exist and that work will have no signifi cant adverse impacts, allowed when no practicable alternatives exist and that work will have no signifi cant adverse impacts, and is subject to approval by the local Conservation Commission or the Massachusetts Department of and is subject to approval by the local Conservation Commission or the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.Environmental Protection.

Cran

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Cran

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Old Sunderland Road

Old Sunderland Road

Old S

tage Coach Road

Old S

tage Coach Road

Zoning Setbacks Zoning Setbacks Montague zoning requires that all principal structures are set back 25 feet from the Montague zoning requires that all principal structures are set back 25 feet from the road right-of-way, 15 feet from the side of the property line, and 10 feet from the back road right-of-way, 15 feet from the side of the property line, and 10 feet from the back of the property line. Accessory structures are not required to meet the same standards. of the property line. Accessory structures are not required to meet the same standards. Th e Red Barn is non-conforming, but grandfathered and may be maintained although Th e Red Barn is non-conforming, but grandfathered and may be maintained although not replaced on the existing footprint. not replaced on the existing footprint.

Agricultural activitiesAgricultural activities are subject to Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act regulation when they occur within the are subject to Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act regulation when they occur within the wetland resource areas and buff er zone although many normal farming activities, including those related to forestry, wetland resource areas and buff er zone although many normal farming activities, including those related to forestry, are exempt from such regulation. Others require town Conservation Commission review. are exempt from such regulation. Others require town Conservation Commission review.

Th e APR language suggests that alternative Th e APR language suggests that alternative agricultural uses, such as the ones envisioned agricultural uses, such as the ones envisioned by Brook’s Bend Farm, are allowed. A by Brook’s Bend Farm, are allowed. A provision also allows for the building of provision also allows for the building of a home for next-generation farmers. Th e a home for next-generation farmers. Th e APR agent should be consulted before APR agent should be consulted before undertaking activities not explicitly listed as undertaking activities not explicitly listed as allowed. Certifi cate of Approvals are required allowed. Certifi cate of Approvals are required prior to most construction. Special Permits prior to most construction. Special Permits may also be sought for those activities that may also be sought for those activities that are keeping with the spirit of the law though are keeping with the spirit of the law though not allowed explicitly.not allowed explicitly.

Agriculture Preservation RestrictionAgriculture Preservation RestrictionAgriculture Preservation Restriction is a Agriculture Preservation Restriction is a permanent deed restriction which precludes permanent deed restriction which precludes any use of the property that will have a any use of the property that will have a negative impact on its agricultural viability. negative impact on its agricultural viability. Th e primary purpose of the APR program is Th e primary purpose of the APR program is to protect agricultural land and to maintain to protect agricultural land and to maintain agricultural viability on that land. All of agricultural viability on that land. All of the property east of Old Sunderland Road, the property east of Old Sunderland Road, approximately 85% of the property, has an approximately 85% of the property, has an Agriculture Preservation Restriction.Agriculture Preservation Restriction.

Bordering Vegetated Wetlands Buff er ZoneWetlands are protected by law and activities within a 100-foot buff er zone are restricted, with notable agricultural agricultural exemptions. Approximately 16 acres or 18% of the property is included in the wetland and related buff er zone. . Approximately 16 acres or 18% of the property is included in the wetland and related buff er zone. Further wetland delineation is recommended for greater accuracy around potential building sites.Further wetland delineation is recommended for greater accuracy around potential building sites.

Approximately 5 acres or 6% of the property is relatively Approximately 5 acres or 6% of the property is relatively unrestricted. Th is is the only area where non-farm related unrestricted. Th is is the only area where non-farm related construction is allowed without approval of the Conservation construction is allowed without approval of the Conservation Commission, Department of Environmental Protection, or Commission, Department of Environmental Protection, or Agriculture Preservation Restriction Committee. Agriculture Preservation Restriction Committee.

Legal AnalysisLegal Analysis

Bordering Vegetated Wetlands Buff er ZoneBordering Vegetated Wetlands Buff er Zone

Zoning Setbacks Zoning Setbacks

Agriculture Preservation RestrictionAgriculture Preservation Restriction

Riverfront Protection AreaRiverfront Protection Area

UnrestrictedUnrestricted

HouseHouse

Red BarnRed Barn


WorkshopWorkshop

StableStable





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6s6s

6s6s

2e2e

2w2w

5w5w

4w4w2w2w

6s6s

4w4w

4w4w

3s3s

5e5e

5w5w

3e3e

2s2s

116s6s Class Class 11 = slight cultivation limitations = slight cultivation limitationsClass Class 2 2 = moderate cultivation limitations= moderate cultivation limitationsClass Class 33 = severe cultivation limitations = severe cultivation limitationsClass Class 44 = very severe cultivation limitations = very severe cultivation limitationsClass Class 55 = unsuitable for cultivation, little or no erosion = unsuitable for cultivation, little or no erosion Class Class 6 6 = unsuitable for cultivation, severe limitations= unsuitable for cultivation, severe limitations

Capability subclasses are soil groups within Capability subclasses are soil groups within one class that have specifi c challenges: one class that have specifi c challenges: ee = erosion = erosionww = water = waterss = shallow, droughty, stony = shallow, droughty, stony

Prime Soils present an opportunity for high yields. Prime Soils present an opportunity for high yields. Non-prime soils are suitable for pasture, forest Non-prime soils are suitable for pasture, forest management, perennial agricultural systems, management, perennial agricultural systems, wildlife habitat, and ecosystem services including wildlife habitat, and ecosystem services including water fi ltration, fl ood mitigation, erosion control, water fi ltration, fl ood mitigation, erosion control, and air quality improvement.and air quality improvement.

ForestForestPasture

Pasture

Pasture

Pasture

Lead

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Pasture/Cultivated LandPasture/Cultivated Land

ForestForest

Prime Soil in Pasture/CultivationPrime Soil in Pasture/Cultivation

Prime Soil under ForestPrime Soil under Forest

Lead Contamination RiskLead Contamination Risk

Old Sunderland Road

Old Sunderland Road

Old S

tage Coach Road

Old S

tage Coach Road

Soil test results indicate medium levels (615 ppm) of lead in the soil surrounding the house Soil test results indicate medium levels (615 ppm) of lead in the soil surrounding the house and low levels (165 ppm) of lead in the soils around the barns. Edible plants should not and low levels (165 ppm) of lead in the soils around the barns. Edible plants should not be grown in the soil within 20 feet of the house without precautionary measures. Further be grown in the soil within 20 feet of the house without precautionary measures. Further testing is recommended. testing is recommended.

Th ese soil boundaries are Th ese soil boundaries are approximate and based upon a approximate and based upon a 1995 USDA Natural Resource 1995 USDA Natural Resource Conservation Services survey. Conservation Services survey.

Approximately 32 acres or 34% of the property has Approximately 32 acres or 34% of the property has what is considered to be prime agricultural soils. what is considered to be prime agricultural soils. Th ese soils are located in two regions separated by Th ese soils are located in two regions separated by Cranberry Pond Brook. Th e pattern of land clearing Cranberry Pond Brook. Th e pattern of land clearing refl ects the agricultural soil suitability. refl ects the agricultural soil suitability.

Soil AnalysisSoil Analysis

CapabilityClass Soil Type Drainage11 Agawam Loam well

22E Canton Fine Sandy Loam well

22S Merrimac Fine Sandy Loam well

22W Sudbury Sandy Loam fair

22W Ninigret Fine Sandy Loam fair

22W Scituate Fine Sandy Loam fair

33E Merrimac Fine Sandy Loam well

33S Windsor Loamy Sand well

44E Merrimac Fine Sandy Loam well

44W Walpole Sandy Loam poor

55W Scarboro Mucky Loamy Sand poor

55W Whitman Fine Sandy Loam poor

66S Hinckley Sandy Loam well

66S Chatfi eld Rock Outcrop Complex fair

66S Hollis Rock Outcrop Complex fair

0 50 100 200 400 800 FEET

Cranberry Pond BrookCranberry Pond Brook

Natural Resources Conservation Services Natural Resources Conservation Services Soil Capability Classes indicate progressively Soil Capability Classes indicate progressively greater limitations that restrict their use.greater limitations that restrict their use.





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SpringSpring

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Drainage FlowDrainage Flow

Brown Barn

Red BarnRed Barn

FarmhouseFarmhouse

StableStable

WorkshopWorkshop

% SLOPE% SLOPE

<2<2

2-52-5

5-105-10

>15>15

10-1510-15


PropertyProperty

Farm Court

Retention PondRetention Pond

Problematic Problematic

DrainageDrainage

to wetlands to wetlands

Intermitt ent SpringIntermitt ent Spring

Problematic

Drainage

AA A'A'

0 40 FEET20

N

A major feature of this site is the natural hollow formed by mounds of fi ne alluvial outwash. A major feature of this site is the natural hollow formed by mounds of fi ne alluvial outwash. Th is hollow forms a drainage-way which empties into a retention basin. Th is retention pond Th is hollow forms a drainage-way which empties into a retention basin. Th is retention pond is currently unused but has potential for water collection and irrigation. is currently unused but has potential for water collection and irrigation. Water courses downslope until it is dammed by the workshop, which shunts water towards where the compost is currently located. Sheeting water leaches nutrients from the compost.

Water sheets across the farm court.

Some saturated soils and minor fl ooding occurs in the corner where barn roof runoff and downhill fl ow meet, particularly in the spring.

Groundwater oft en surfaces from an intermittent spring on the northern slope below the Groundwater oft en surfaces from an intermittent spring on the northern slope below the house as it heads toward the old beaver marsh.house as it heads toward the old beaver marsh.

Most of the focus area behind the farmhouse is sloped 10% or greater Most of the focus area behind the farmhouse is sloped 10% or greater down toward the north and northwest. Slopes steeper than 10% limit down toward the north and northwest. Slopes steeper than 10% limit driveway placement and construction.driveway placement and construction.

Most of the soil in the focus area is fi ne sandy loam, a well drained Most of the soil in the focus area is fi ne sandy loam, a well drained soil with low to medium runoff potential. Th ere is a seasonally high soil with low to medium runoff potential. Th ere is a seasonally high water table. Together these factors result in highly variable seasonal water table. Together these factors result in highly variable seasonal soil saturation. Th is presents both challenges and opportunities for soil saturation. Th is presents both challenges and opportunities for growing certain crops.growing certain crops.

Th e clients mentioned that 2010 was the driest summer they have Th e clients mentioned that 2010 was the driest summer they have seen in the seven years they have lived on the farm. As the summer seen in the seven years they have lived on the farm. As the summer progressed without rain, grazing the sheep fl ock became a concern. progressed without rain, grazing the sheep fl ock became a concern. With an uncertain climate forecast for the future, intelligently With an uncertain climate forecast for the future, intelligently managing water is of paramount importance. managing water is of paramount importance.

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Old S

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Old S

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High PointHigh Point



A successful design will address the current drainage problems, A successful design will address the current drainage problems, anticipate future issues, and fi nd uses for this resource. anticipate future issues, and fi nd uses for this resource.

Major challenges: Major challenges: • • runoff causing minor fl ooding runoff causing minor fl ooding

around buildingsaround buildings• • farmland droughty during dry farmland droughty during dry

monthsmonths

Slope & Drainage Slope & Drainage AnalysisAnalysis


Major opportunities:Major opportunities:• • redirect problem water for redirect problem water for

storage and irrigationstorage and irrigation

WorkshopWorkshopBrown BarnBrown BarnFarmhouseFarmhouse


Hollow

Hollow

HollowHollowOld Sunderland RoadOld Sunderland Road

Major drainage wayMajor drainage way





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00 1010 2020 4040

0 40 FEET20

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To: Amherst To: Amherst

NorthamptonNorthampton

To: Montague CenterTo: Montague Center

Greenfi eld Greenfi eld


Red BarnRed Barn

FarmhouseFarmhouse

StableStable

WorkshopWorkshop


Old S

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Old S

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PropertyProperty

Pedestrian route by intensityPedestrian route by intensity

Vehicular routeVehicular route

Building accessBuilding access

Confl ictConfl ict

ParkingParking

5

Chicken coop within the stable is accessed daily.Chicken coop within the stable is accessed daily.

Cultivated beds, compost, and southern fi eld are accessed Cultivated beds, compost, and southern fi eld are accessed primarily during growing season.primarily during growing season.

Routes to access the dirt road to woods and back pasture.Routes to access the dirt road to woods and back pasture.

Sheep are rotationally grazed across pastures, and are Sheep are rotationally grazed across pastures, and are moved on a daily or weekly basis.moved on a daily or weekly basis.

Confl ict exists where undefi ned pedestrian routes cross Confl ict exists where undefi ned pedestrian routes cross road.road.

Barns, workshop, and farm court forms the central hub Barns, workshop, and farm court forms the central hub of farm activity. Trucks and farm equipment movement of farm activity. Trucks and farm equipment movement around this area, and to a lesser degree the entire site, is around this area, and to a lesser degree the entire site, is undefi ned. undefi ned.

House is central to daily circulation.House is central to daily circulation.

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Potential confl ict exists between pedestrian paths, Potential confl ict exists between pedestrian paths, parking spaces, and farm work space.parking spaces, and farm work space.

Old Sunderland Road has a speed limit of 25 mph, but Old Sunderland Road has a speed limit of 25 mph, but passing vehicles oft en exceed 40 mph. Sight lines are clear. passing vehicles oft en exceed 40 mph. Sight lines are clear.

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To: road to woods To: road to woods

and back pastureand back pasture

Access & Circulation Access & Circulation AnalysisAnalysis

Th e fi elds and farm buildings are readily accessible to the Th e fi elds and farm buildings are readily accessible to the farmhouse.farmhouse.

Th e site is easily accessible by vehicles. Th e site is easily accessible by vehicles.

Parking is generally undefi ned and confusing for visitors.Parking is generally undefi ned and confusing for visitors.

A pair of vehicles can park on the paved farmhouse driveway. A pair of vehicles can park on the paved farmhouse driveway. Up to fi ve vehicles can park on the gravel farm driveway. Up to fi ve vehicles can park on the gravel farm driveway. A patch of lawn between the brown barn and the road is A patch of lawn between the brown barn and the road is frequently used as parking for two vehicles. frequently used as parking for two vehicles.

Th e confl ict between pedestrians, road circulation, and vehicle Th e confl ict between pedestrians, road circulation, and vehicle parking needs to be addressed to ensure visitor safety. parking needs to be addressed to ensure visitor safety.





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0 40 FEET20

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HouseHouse

Stable & CoopStable & Coop

3-Bay Workshop

Brown Barn

Retention Pond

CompostCompost

Cultivated BedsCultivated Beds

Fenced PastureFenced Pasture

Pasture

WetlandsWetlands

Unused CoopUnused Coop

Blueberries Blueberries

& Currants

Bee HivesBee Hives

Turkey ShedTurkey Shed


Fire PitFire PitWellhead

Neighbor’s HomeNeighbor’s Home



High Point

Utility PoleUtility Pole


PropertyProperty

deadaddeada

Septic Leach FieldSeptic Leach Field

Septic BoxSeptic Box

Utility PoletUt

Old S

underland Road

Summary AnalysisSummary AnalysisWinter Winter

WindWind

Summer Summer

WindWind

NN

SS

WW EE

Winter SunWinter Sun

Brook’s Brook’s

BendBend

Summer SunSummer Sun

Relative proximity to Old Sunderland Road, state highways, interstate Relative proximity to Old Sunderland Road, state highways, interstate 91, and the Franklin County bikeway result in great visibility and 91, and the Franklin County bikeway result in great visibility and accessibility to the site. Clear patterns of access, parking, and accessibility to the site. Clear patterns of access, parking, and circulation need to be defi ned to reduce confl ict between pedestrians circulation need to be defi ned to reduce confl ict between pedestrians and vehicles and to ensure a comfortable and safe visitor experience. and vehicles and to ensure a comfortable and safe visitor experience.

An agriculture Preservation Restriction limits possible building sites. An agriculture Preservation Restriction limits possible building sites. Agriculturally relevant buildings and farmhouses for farm workers Agriculturally relevant buildings and farmhouses for farm workers are allowed, but require permitting. Further discussion with APR are allowed, but require permitting. Further discussion with APR representatives is required to clarify permitted structures and uses. representatives is required to clarify permitted structures and uses. Steep slopes, wetlands, and riverfront protection cover most of the Steep slopes, wetlands, and riverfront protection cover most of the portion of the property that is not included in the APR agreement. Th is portion of the property that is not included in the APR agreement. Th is limits possible unrestricted construction sites within the focus area to a limits possible unrestricted construction sites within the focus area to a zone of less than 5000 square feet. Th e only other feasible unrestricted zone of less than 5000 square feet. Th e only other feasible unrestricted construction site on the property is where the farmhouse leach fi eld is construction site on the property is where the farmhouse leach fi eld is located.located.

Saturated soils and minor fl ooding problems caused by seasonally Saturated soils and minor fl ooding problems caused by seasonally high groundwater and surface fl ow across the site have the potential high groundwater and surface fl ow across the site have the potential to provide irrigation solutions. Th e soils for the focus area are mainly to provide irrigation solutions. Th e soils for the focus area are mainly fi ne sandy loam. Th is fertile, well drained soil has great agricultural fi ne sandy loam. Th is fertile, well drained soil has great agricultural potential but can easily suff er drought in dry spells. potential but can easily suff er drought in dry spells.

Utility PoleUtility Pole

dRetention Pond

B W k h3 B W k h

Pasture

r& Currants

Vehicular routeVehicular route

Building accessBuilding access

Confl ictConfl ict

ParkingParking

Slopes 10% or greaterSlopes 10% or greater

Zoning setbackZoning setback

Agriculture Preservation Restriction Agriculture Preservation Restriction

Major drainage wayMajor drainage way





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Th e old farmhouse is renovated and converted to a multipurpose headquarters, including apartments, offi ces, library, and kitchen. Old Sunderland Road offi ces, library, and kitchen. Old Sunderland Road separates public from private spaces. A privacy separates public from private spaces. A privacy hedge and driveway that is off set from that of the hedge and driveway that is off set from that of the farm establish for the visitor the separation of private farm establish for the visitor the separation of private from public space. from public space.

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Edible Forest Valley

Microclim

ate Demonstration

Microclim

ate Demonstration

Vantage PointVantage Point

Greeting Greeting

SpaceSpace

Low Impact Educational Structures

& Guest Quarters

Display Display

PolyculturesPolycultures

Interpretive Yurt

Apart

men

tsOffi

ceKit

chen

Kitch

en

Stable & CoopStable & Coop

Wood Wood

WorkshopWorkshop

BarnBarn

Livestock BarnLivestock Barn

Retention Pond &


BerriesBerries

Learning Trails

Farm YardFarm Yard


Pollard GrovePollard Grove

Old S

underland Road

Old S

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Fodder Hedges

Farm Store

Gathering Place

Formal Annuals

Formal Annuals

Flower Gard

en

Flower Gard

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Orderly Nursery Stock

Orderly Nursery StockVarietal Testing Beds

Varietal Testing Beds

Integrated Polyculture Agroforestry

Integrated Polyculture Agroforestry

Polyculture Control Beds

Polyculture Control Beds

Rare & Rare &

Endangered Endangered

CropsCrops

Propagation

Propagation Greenhouse &

Greenhouse &

Solar KilnSolar Kiln

Rain GardenRain Garden

Forb, Grass, & Insectary Meadow


Priv

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Priv

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Hed

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Overfl ow Parking (4)

Overfl ow Parking (4)

Infi ltration Swale

Infi ltration Swale

Dir

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Sw

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Dir

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Sw

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Woodland Shade GardensWoodland Shade Gardens

Fire PitFire Pit

0 40 FEET20

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Relational Concept DiagramRelational Concept Diagram

HomeHome Old Sunderland Road

Old Sunderland Road

StoreStore

EducationEducation

FarmFarm

Schematic Alternative ASchematic Alternative A


PropertyProperty

Th e farm store extends from the barn towards the road, attracting the attention of potential customers and visitors. Th e gravel parking lot accommodates and visitors. Th e gravel parking lot accommodates 5 vehicles with a reinforced turf overfl ow for an 5 vehicles with a reinforced turf overfl ow for an additional 4 vehicles. Visitors are drawn into a additional 4 vehicles. Visitors are drawn into a clearly marked greeting space, from which trails clearly marked greeting space, from which trails lead the visitors on an interpretive educational lead the visitors on an interpretive educational experience. experience.

Applications of various agricultural methods from Applications of various agricultural methods from familiar ordered annual beds through integrated familiar ordered annual beds through integrated polyculture agroforestry systems are demonstrated. polyculture agroforestry systems are demonstrated. Guests are introduced to rare and heritage crop Guests are introduced to rare and heritage crop varieties. Th e greenhouse serves alternatively as a varieties. Th e greenhouse serves alternatively as a solar kiln for drying lumber.solar kiln for drying lumber.

An outdoor gathering space at the top of the hill An outdoor gathering space at the top of the hill has extended views over much of the farm and its has extended views over much of the farm and its diff erent elements. A low-impact interpretive yurt diff erent elements. A low-impact interpretive yurt serves as a classroom. serves as a classroom.

Th e cluster of yurts creates a gathering space and they are available for Th e cluster of yurts creates a gathering space and they are available for overnight stay. overnight stay.

Th e edible forest valley is an integrated polyculture forest which Th e edible forest valley is an integrated polyculture forest which accentuates the natural hollow shape and further enhances microclimates accentuates the natural hollow shape and further enhances microclimates through the architecture of plant communities. Managed agroforestry through the architecture of plant communities. Managed agroforestry system transitions into shade gardens built into natural woodland system transitions into shade gardens built into natural woodland providing a diversity of agriculture techniques while utilizing and providing a diversity of agriculture techniques while utilizing and exploring native plant communities.exploring native plant communities.

A coppiced hedgerow of shrubs grows near the pasture for supplemental A coppiced hedgerow of shrubs grows near the pasture for supplemental fodder. A pollard grove within the pasture provides animal fodder during fodder. A pollard grove within the pasture provides animal fodder during the winter. the winter.

Th e retention pond is utilized for aquaculture and water storage. Th e retention pond is utilized for aquaculture and water storage.

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Mandala GardenMandala Garden

Arbor PergolaArbor Pergola

Farm Store

Farm Store

Educational C

enter

Educational C

enter

Offi ces

Offi ces

Kitchen

Kitchen

Dormit

ory

Dormit

ory

GreenhouseGreenhouse

Stable & Stable &

CoopCoop

Stormwater Stormwater

Management Management

Demonstration

Trails to Beaver MarshTrails to Beaver Marsh

Access Road to Sugarbush Access Road to Sugarbush

& Understory Wet Woodland & Understory Wet Woodland

GardenGarden

Cascading Water Biofi lt

er

Cascading Water Biofi lt

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Old S

underland R

oad

Old S

underland R

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BarnBarn

BarnBarn

Crosswalk

sSolar TrapSolar Trap

Retention Pond

Irrigation Spillw

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Dir

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Sw

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Dir

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Sw

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Directional SwalesD

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Dir

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Sw

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Dir

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Sw

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Dir

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Sw

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Vantage PointVantage Point

Flexi-Use

Flexi-Use

WorkshopWorkshop

Polyculture GardensPolyculture GardensTended Woodland Tended Woodland

GardenGarden

Parking (4)

Parking (5)Farm Yard

Herb B

eds

Herb B

eds

PasturePasture

Gathering

Space



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Th e educational center, offi ces, kitchen, and dormitory Th e educational center, offi ces, kitchen, and dormitory accommodations are located within the renovated accommodations are located within the renovated farmhouse. Trails from the educational center lead past farmhouse. Trails from the educational center lead past a stormwater management demonstration site to the old a stormwater management demonstration site to the old beaver marsh, and back through the sugarbush access road. beaver marsh, and back through the sugarbush access road. Th e stable and chicken coop have an attached greenhouse. Th e stable and chicken coop have an attached greenhouse.

Aligned driveways help notify visitors that both sides of Aligned driveways help notify visitors that both sides of the road are open to public access. Crosswalks help guide the road are open to public access. Crosswalks help guide visitors safely across the road to the farm, and alert drivers visitors safely across the road to the farm, and alert drivers to their presence. to their presence.

Th e barns remain actively used for farm purposes. Th e Th e barns remain actively used for farm purposes. Th e 3-bay workshop is a fl exible-use workshop space. A farm 3-bay workshop is a fl exible-use workshop space. A farm store supports the organization fi nancially by selling the store supports the organization fi nancially by selling the produce and products created on the farm.produce and products created on the farm.

Visitors gather near the retention pond where there is a view Visitors gather near the retention pond where there is a view of the front door of the house through the alley created by of the front door of the house through the alley created by two barns. Th e retention pond is used to selectively irrigate two barns. Th e retention pond is used to selectively irrigate agricultural plots downslope. agricultural plots downslope.

Th e retention pond is fed by a series of directional swales Th e retention pond is fed by a series of directional swales angled slightly off contour to channel runoff water across angled slightly off contour to channel runoff water across slope, thereby increasing the size of the watershed for slope, thereby increasing the size of the watershed for the pond. Th ese planted swales infi ltrate some of their the pond. Th ese planted swales infi ltrate some of their catchment into the soil and overfl ow is directed as high in catchment into the soil and overfl ow is directed as high in the landscape as feasible, retaining water as long as possible the landscape as feasible, retaining water as long as possible in the system. Th e natural depression that feeds into the in the system. Th e natural depression that feeds into the retention pond is wet most parts of the year. Areas of the retention pond is wet most parts of the year. Areas of the hillside which have had water directed away become drier. hillside which have had water directed away become drier. Diff erent saturation levels create opportunities for testing, Diff erent saturation levels create opportunities for testing, research, and experimentation with diff erent agricultural research, and experimentation with diff erent agricultural methods and crops. methods and crops.

Excess water is detained in a series of infi ltration basins, Excess water is detained in a series of infi ltration basins, rain gardens, and cascading fi lters before continuing on rain gardens, and cascading fi lters before continuing on towards the marsh.towards the marsh.

Visitors gather at a vantage point atop the hill and take Visitors gather at a vantage point atop the hill and take peaceful breaks in the mandala garden. peaceful breaks in the mandala garden.

Schematic Alternative BSchematic Alternative B


PropertyProperty


Old Sunderland Road

Old Sunderland Road

StoreStore

HomeHome

FarmFarm

Education

Education

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Greenhouse

WorkshopWorkshop

PropagationPropagation


Shade StructureShade Structure

Visitor

Parking Parking

(10)(10)

GreenhouseGreenhouseStable & CoopStable & Coop

HomeHome

Parking (5)Parking (5)

FarmhouseFarmhouse

Farm YardFarm Yard

Farm StoreEducation Education

& Meeting & Meeting

SpaceSpace

StorageStorage

StorageStorage

Barn

Livestock BarnLivestock Barn

KitchenKitchen

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Schematic Alternative C: InfrastructureSchematic Alternative C: Infrastructure

Old S

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Old S

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FarmFarm Education

Education

StoreStore


An addition built onto the north of the farmhouse provides space for additional living quarters, offi ces, and library. A new home constructed near the old and library. A new home constructed near the old house is oriented for solar gain with an attached private house is oriented for solar gain with an attached private greenhouse that provides a sense of separation from greenhouse that provides a sense of separation from the driveway and helps create some intimate space to the driveway and helps create some intimate space to the south and west of the new house. Th e driveway (5 the south and west of the new house. Th e driveway (5 spaces) is between the buildings and aligns with the farm spaces) is between the buildings and aligns with the farm driveway for safety. Th e existing stable/coop remains. driveway for safety. Th e existing stable/coop remains. Th is arrangement provides a dense cluster with the Th is arrangement provides a dense cluster with the opportunity to demonstrate solutions to urban-specifi c opportunity to demonstrate solutions to urban-specifi c challenges, but provides minimal privacy.challenges, but provides minimal privacy.

Old Sunderland Road provides separation between private and public areas. Old Sunderland Road provides separation between private and public areas.

Visitors lot (10 spaces, +7 overfl ow) is arranged parallel to the existing 3-bay workshop. A bend in Visitors lot (10 spaces, +7 overfl ow) is arranged parallel to the existing 3-bay workshop. A bend in public drive provides separation between parking and working farm yard. public drive provides separation between parking and working farm yard.

A shade structure is an inviting gathering space and transition between parking lot and gardens that A shade structure is an inviting gathering space and transition between parking lot and gardens that serves as learning space, processing space, and hub for gardening activities. serves as learning space, processing space, and hub for gardening activities.

Workshop shares space with propagation and garden related storage with an addition of a Workshop shares space with propagation and garden related storage with an addition of a greenhouse/solar lumber kiln. A bread oven helps defi ne a gathering space between the workshop greenhouse/solar lumber kiln. A bread oven helps defi ne a gathering space between the workshop and shade structure.and shade structure.

Th e farm store extends from the brown barn towards the road, thereby gaining visibility. Between Th e farm store extends from the brown barn towards the road, thereby gaining visibility. Between the farm store and indoor meeting area is a back-room space that serves as prep kitchen, freezer, the farm store and indoor meeting area is a back-room space that serves as prep kitchen, freezer, storage, and bathroom facilities. Th e indoor meeting area occupies the southeast portion of the storage, and bathroom facilities. Th e indoor meeting area occupies the southeast portion of the existing pole barn footprint. Th e center has views of the pond, hills, and gardens. Th is will require existing pole barn footprint. Th e center has views of the pond, hills, and gardens. Th is will require APR approval, but being within the footprint of an existing building and given the motive to APR approval, but being within the footprint of an existing building and given the motive to develop agricultural training and education, it is likely to be approved. Farm equipment, hay, and develop agricultural training and education, it is likely to be approved. Farm equipment, hay, and produce storage is accommodated with a pole barn added to the north east of the brown barn. produce storage is accommodated with a pole barn added to the north east of the brown barn.

Red barn functions as a livestock barn, with access to pasture. Additional storage is added to the Red barn functions as a livestock barn, with access to pasture. Additional storage is added to the north end of the red barn.north end of the red barn.

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Parking (12)

BarnBarn

BarnBarn

StorageStorage

Farm YardFarm Yard


PondPond

HomeHome

Greenhouse

Porch

Farmhouse

Parking (5)Parking (5)

PorchPorch

Farm Store

Meeting SpaceMeeting SpacePergola

WorkshopWorkshop

Greenhouse

PropagationPropagation

GreenhouseGreenhouse

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Schematic Alternative DSchematic Alternative D Relational Concept DiagramRelational Concept Diagram

Old S

underland Road

Old S

underland Road

Private

Private

Home 1Home 1

Home 2Home 2

FarmFarm

Education

EducationStoreStore

Th e existing farmhouse is renovated and re-purposed Th e existing farmhouse is renovated and re-purposed as apartments, offi ces, and library with an addition to as apartments, offi ces, and library with an addition to where the garage and kitchen are currently located. A where the garage and kitchen are currently located. A greenhouse is located near the porch. Th e driveway greenhouse is located near the porch. Th e driveway entrance is moved several feet away from farmhouse entrance is moved several feet away from farmhouse and parking (5 spaces) faces away from old house. and parking (5 spaces) faces away from old house. Th e spaces between the houses are gardened for Th e spaces between the houses are gardened for home use, although care is taken to avoid possible home use, although care is taken to avoid possible lead contamination by using raised beds near the old lead contamination by using raised beds near the old farmhouse. farmhouse.

New passive solar house with attached greenhouse New passive solar house with attached greenhouse is located close to old house. New home location is located close to old house. New home location has both privacy and proximity to active farm and has both privacy and proximity to active farm and facilities. A pond captures and purifi es runoff water.facilities. A pond captures and purifi es runoff water.

Old Sunderland Road provides separation between private and public zones.Old Sunderland Road provides separation between private and public zones.

A double loaded parking area (12 spaces) aligns with the road and provides separation between A double loaded parking area (12 spaces) aligns with the road and provides separation between parking and working farm yard. parking and working farm yard.

A new building contains meeting space and a farm store. A porch on the north side welcomes A new building contains meeting space and a farm store. A porch on the north side welcomes visitors and customers from the road and parking lot into the storefront. Facing south towards visitors and customers from the road and parking lot into the storefront. Facing south towards the garden is a large meeting space. Th e building also has an offi ce, kitchen, and bathroom. A the garden is a large meeting space. Th e building also has an offi ce, kitchen, and bathroom. A greenhouse provides heat during the winter. Building a new multifunctional structure in the APR greenhouse provides heat during the winter. Building a new multifunctional structure in the APR zone depends upon special permitting. A pergola connects the workshop to a new multifunctional zone depends upon special permitting. A pergola connects the workshop to a new multifunctional structure. structure.

Workshop shares space with propagation and garden related storage and the addition of a Workshop shares space with propagation and garden related storage and the addition of a greenhouse/solar lumber kiln. Th e bread oven helps defi ne an outdoor gathering space between the greenhouse/solar lumber kiln. Th e bread oven helps defi ne an outdoor gathering space between the workshop and new building.workshop and new building. Th e existing barns and their related farmyard remain at the center of the working farm. Th e red Th e existing barns and their related farmyard remain at the center of the working farm. Th e red barn functions as livestock barn, with access to pasture.barn functions as livestock barn, with access to pasture.

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SwalesSwales

IrrigationIrrigation

SwalesSwales

IrrigationIrrigation

PondPond

PondPond

PondPond

PondPond

Water Management StrategiesWater Management Strategies

Alternative AAlternative A

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SwaleSwale

Irrigation LineIrrigation Line

Water Retention PondWater Retention Pond

CulvertCulvert

top of berm & top of berm &

intersection of intersection of

cut are levelcut are level

width and depth depend width and depth depend

upon soil typeupon soil type

plant & mulch plant & mulch

swale and bermswale and berm

(adapted from Jacke, (adapted from Jacke, Edible Forest GardensEdible Forest Gardens 2005) 2005)

Swale SectionSwale Section

directional swale should be a directional swale should be a

minimum of 2% off contourminimum of 2% off contour

Alternative BAlternative BWater is channeled by swale from the northern portion of Water is channeled by swale from the northern portion of the pasture towards the existing retention pond. A swale the pasture towards the existing retention pond. A swale lower on the slope directs any additional fl ow away from lower on the slope directs any additional fl ow away from the barns. Swales on the southern portion of the pasture the barns. Swales on the southern portion of the pasture channel water into a new retention pond located upslope channel water into a new retention pond located upslope from the cultivated beds for gravity-fed irrigation. A from the cultivated beds for gravity-fed irrigation. A swale lower on the slope directs any additional fl ow away swale lower on the slope directs any additional fl ow away from the workshop and farm yard. A pond on the west from the workshop and farm yard. A pond on the west side of the road captures and fi lters runoff . side of the road captures and fi lters runoff .

Swales channel water into the natural hollow which in Swales channel water into the natural hollow which in turn feeds in the existing retention pond. Water is stored turn feeds in the existing retention pond. Water is stored in the soil as it moves into the retention pond. Irrigation in the soil as it moves into the retention pond. Irrigation from the pond to the cultivated beds requires pumping from the pond to the cultivated beds requires pumping to raise the water high enough above grade before gravity to raise the water high enough above grade before gravity can draw it downhill.can draw it downhill.





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Western Western Massachusetts Massachusetts Permaculture Permaculture

GuildGuild

Integrated Businesses and Organization Affi liatesIntegrated Businesses and Organization Affi liatesIntegrated businesses demonstrate the potential for local economic resilience. People learn to design Integrated businesses demonstrate the potential for local economic resilience. People learn to design and manage land-based livelihoods that regenerate our landscapes and communities. Th e businesses and manage land-based livelihoods that regenerate our landscapes and communities. Th e businesses are integrated with demonstration and education of regionally-focused permaculture practices: plant are integrated with demonstration and education of regionally-focused permaculture practices: plant propagation and sales, consulting & design, farm stand & smoothie shop, compost & soil food web, propagation and sales, consulting & design, farm stand & smoothie shop, compost & soil food web, heritage breed animals. Additional orgnization affi liates could be PINE, APIOS, NESFI, CISA, or others.heritage breed animals. Additional orgnization affi liates could be PINE, APIOS, NESFI, CISA, or others.

From initial organization planning document, May 2010From initial organization planning document, May 2010

Current Affi liationsCurrent Affi liations

Brook’s Bend FarmBrook’s Bend Farm

Collaborators

Collaborators

Associated

Associated

Independent Independent

AffiliatesAffiliates

ProjectsProjects

What does each party have to off er? What does each party have to off er?

What does each party need?What does each party need?

How will these relationships function to mutually support each party? How will these relationships function to mutually support each party?

How might these relationships change and grow with time?How might these relationships change and grow with time?

Th e future of Brook’s Bend as an organization depends upon the Th e future of Brook’s Bend as an organization depends upon the relationships formed and maintained with other organizations, groups, relationships formed and maintained with other organizations, groups, people, and communities. people, and communities.

One of the next steps in the organizational structuring process is to One of the next steps in the organizational structuring process is to solicit input and feedback, possibly through a charette process, of what solicit input and feedback, possibly through a charette process, of what various stakeholders might want, need, and expect from the Brook’s Bend various stakeholders might want, need, and expect from the Brook’s Bend organization. Questions to be explored include:organization. Questions to be explored include:

Potential Affi liationsPotential Affi liations

Organization & RelationshipsOrganization & Relationships

Vermont Wilderness Vermont Wilderness SchoolSchool





1414//1414


Do no harmDo no harmMake no changes to the site that will degrade the surrounding environment. Promote Make no changes to the site that will degrade the surrounding environment. Promote projects on sites where previous disturbance or development presents an opportunity projects on sites where previous disturbance or development presents an opportunity to regenerate ecosystem services through sustainable design.to regenerate ecosystem services through sustainable design.

Precautionary principlePrecautionary principleBe cautious in making decisions that could create risk to human and environmental Be cautious in making decisions that could create risk to human and environmental health. Some actions can cause irreversible damage. Examine a full range of health. Some actions can cause irreversible damage. Examine a full range of alternatives—including no action—and be open to contributions from all aff ected alternatives—including no action—and be open to contributions from all aff ected parties.parties.

Design with nature and cultureDesign with nature and cultureCreate and implement designs that are responsive to economic, environmental, and Create and implement designs that are responsive to economic, environmental, and cultural conditions with respect to the local, regional, and global context.cultural conditions with respect to the local, regional, and global context.

Use a decision-making hierarchy of preservation, conservation, and regenerationUse a decision-making hierarchy of preservation, conservation, and regenerationMaximize and mimic the benefi ts of ecosystem services by preserving existing Maximize and mimic the benefi ts of ecosystem services by preserving existing environmental features, conserving resources in a sustainable manner, and environmental features, conserving resources in a sustainable manner, and regenerating lost or damaged ecosystem services.regenerating lost or damaged ecosystem services.

Provide regenerative systems as intergenerational equityProvide regenerative systems as intergenerational equityProvide future generations with a sustainable environment supported by regenerative Provide future generations with a sustainable environment supported by regenerative systems and endowed with regenerative resources.systems and endowed with regenerative resources.

Support a living processSupport a living processContinuously re-evaluate assumptions and values and adapt to demographic and Continuously re-evaluate assumptions and values and adapt to demographic and environmental change.environmental change.

Use a systems thinking approachUse a systems thinking approachUnderstand and value the relationships in an ecosystem and use an approach that Understand and value the relationships in an ecosystem and use an approach that refl ects and sustains ecosystem services; re-establish the integral and essential refl ects and sustains ecosystem services; re-establish the integral and essential relationship between natural processes and human activity.relationship between natural processes and human activity.

Use a collaborative and ethical approachUse a collaborative and ethical approachEncourage direct and open communication among colleagues, clients, manufacturers, Encourage direct and open communication among colleagues, clients, manufacturers, and users to link long-term sustainability with ethical responsibility.and users to link long-term sustainability with ethical responsibility.

Maintain integrity in leadership and researchMaintain integrity in leadership and researchImplement transparent and participatory leadership, develop research with technical Implement transparent and participatory leadership, develop research with technical rigor, and communicate new fi ndings in a clear, consistent, and timely manner.rigor, and communicate new fi ndings in a clear, consistent, and timely manner.

Foster environmental stewardshipFoster environmental stewardshipIn all aspects of land development and management, foster an ethic of environmental In all aspects of land development and management, foster an ethic of environmental stewardship—an understanding that responsible management of healthy ecosystems stewardship—an understanding that responsible management of healthy ecosystems improves the quality of life for present and future generations.improves the quality of life for present and future generations.

Reproduced from Sustainable Sites Initiative; Guidelines & Performance Benchmarks, 2009. ASLA, Lady Reproduced from Sustainable Sites Initiative; Guidelines & Performance Benchmarks, 2009. ASLA, Lady Bird Johnson Wildfl ower Center & US Botanical Garden. Page 7Bird Johnson Wildfl ower Center & US Botanical Garden. Page 7

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One of the core purposes of Brook’s Bend Farm is to One of the core purposes of Brook’s Bend Farm is to teach and demonstrate sustainable land management, teach and demonstrate sustainable land management, progressive agricultural practices, permaculture, and progressive agricultural practices, permaculture, and ecological design. Explicitly stating design directives, ecological design. Explicitly stating design directives, ethics, and guiding principles will help guide future ethics, and guiding principles will help guide future thought and decision processes. thought and decision processes.

Th e Permaculture Ethics and Design Principles (below) and Th e Permaculture Ethics and Design Principles (below) and the Sustainable Sites Initiative Guidelines (to right) off er the Sustainable Sites Initiative Guidelines (to right) off er holistic design philosophies as references and guidance in the holistic design philosophies as references and guidance in the creation of Brook’s Bend Farm.creation of Brook’s Bend Farm.

Organization & RelationshipsOrganization & Relationships

PERMACULTURE ETHICS AND DESIGN PRINCIPLESPERMACULTURE ETHICS AND DESIGN PRINCIPLES

THE SUSTAINABLE SITES INITIATIVE GUIDELINESTHE SUSTAINABLE SITES INITIATIVE GUIDELINES

brook's bend farm landscape plan

Documents

th e world

visitors site

farm home

landbased learning

landbased education

th ese global challenges

deerfield road

positive change