STRATEGY: permaculture eden

Brad, Rodd and Chi Lancaster are my heroes. They have planted themselves firmly into the Dunbar-Springs Neighborhood and are creating ripples of inspiration, education and demonstration in myriad forms. First and foremost, they have transformed their urban home into a lively demonstration of simple ways that anyone can live in abundance and in harmony with nature’s cycles. And, their deep friendliness and affection for sharing wisdom has created a warmth around their house that attracts numerous visitors daily, thus increasing the local connections among Tucson’s sustainability-makers.

Click here for photos of their house.

A desert eden, watered by the rain!


The secret: basins to catch water, mulch to keep it in, and a dash of intention

Easy for anyone: greywater harvesting… the washing machine pipes water directly to the fruit trees nearby


Yum













Outdoor shower, and the three drains that lead to three garden beds. Notice the white covers that can be used to direct water one way or another.

Above: Garden beds with sunken clay pots… fill these with water and ya have slow drip irrigation!
Below: Clay pots can also be used as water filters.


Nuclear energy: the sun!! Solar electricity, solar water heaters and solar oven… shouldn’t all of Arizona be off the grid?!