OCPB agenda 090215 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

3) Thorough soil preparation Amend soils with organic matter to ensure that they retain water and nutrients while also draining freely 4) Appropriate use of plant materials Utilize native and well-adapted species of plants, and place them appropriately in the landscape in an environment similar to their native habitat; select drought-tolerant species for unirrigated areas 5) Effective and efficient watering methods Where irrigation is used, employ drip, micro-sprinkler, soaker hose and/or subsurface systems which minimize water use, reduce runoff and evaporation, and provide water directly to the root zone of plants 6) Use of mulch on trees, shrubs, and flower beds Reduce evaporation and runoff, increase water-holding capacity of soil, improve soil structure, and moderate soil temperatures with organic mulches 7) Proper landscape maintenance Careful timing and implementation of tasks such as fertilizing, watering, mulching, mowing, and pruning can drastically reduce time, effort, and resource use while improving the health and beauty of the landscape It should be noted that in addition to capturing rainwater in the landscape and utilizing other permaculture methods, a separate well will be drilled for farm related irrigation, washing and animal drinking water. FARM ACTIVITIES The primary purposes of the farm at Hart’s Mill are to: a) provide food and fiber for residents, and the community as capacity allows; b) model sustainable forestry and agriculture practices which are in harmony with conservation goals; and c) provide livelihood for one or more farmers on the land. Our farming practices will be based on permaculture principles and will incorporate a mixture of small scale activities including: Vegetables: intensively managed beds and hoop houses Fruits & Berries: integrated orchards and hedgerows Honey Bees: we have planted pollinator species and our first two hives are already in place! 39