Not everyone involved with our community gardening project is part of the labor pool. Some provide financial backing so we can purchase the seeds, animals, feed, and tools that we need to make food production possible. Ideally, in the near future, we will have the capability of growing all the food for the people involved with the project. By practicing a number of sustainable food raising techniques, like bio-intensive gardening and permaculture, our ideal of food self sufficiency may not be far from reality.
We don't want to expand or enlarge our own group, but rather encourage others to begin similar projects in their neighborhoods or local communities. Support and the sharing of ideas and practices that work are essential to our current and future success in attaining self-reliance. Communication within groups and between groups is essential to preserving seed stock of genetic diversity.
So, if there are any other groups of people out there who are creating a self-sufficient community, or are interested in doing so, we would be very interested in connecting with you!
If enough people work together, local self-reliance can happen. We can live without products from all over the world. We can produce the necessities to sustain our lives, and live more fulfilling lives in the process. The future that many of us have talked about and dreamed of for so long is not that far away, if we all work together toward a sustainable future. If you are interested in being involved or just want to learn more about what we are doing, give us a call. We can be reached at 485-9683 (Adam) or 485-0207 (Derek).
Copyright Mendocino Environmental Center 1999
Permission granted to excerpt or use this article if source is cited