Permaculture


The Adrian Dominican Sisters have long been engaged, individually and communally, in efforts to protect the integrity of creation and bring about a more just, peaceful and compassionate world. The Office of Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation coordinates these efforts by bringing to light injustices and recommending ways to take action.


"Earth Care, People Care, Fair Share"

Permaculture is an ethical design system for human habitations and land use that emphasizes sustainability, integration, and cooperation with – as opposed to domination of – natural systems. Further, permaculture systems strive to minimize reliance on fossil fuels, which cause climate change and are finite resources which will likely not be affordably produced for long. 

Our Permaculture Gardens are an evolving demonstration. The seven-acre site was formerly mowed turf grass and impermeable surfaces. The turf has been allowed to return to a meadow and the asphalt was reused for paths. Our goal is to return to an abundant, diverse, and healthy ecological system guided by the permaculture ethics of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share. Learn more about our commitments.

We strive to:

  • build soil health

  • attend to our water story

  • focus on perennials

  • increase biodiversity

  • create contemplative space 

Looking to the future:

  • We hope to expand our food production with the aim of providing 5% to 10% of the Sister’s calories on site. 

  • We are exploring and implementing methods to extend the growing season and investigating climate-resilient crops.

  • We will begin prairie restoration and reforestation efforts across the Motherhouse campus.

Resources

 

Connect with us!

Visit Permaculture - Adrian Dominican Sisters on Instagram and YouTube!

  

 

Growing Awareness eNewsletter

Published quarterly, the Permaculture electronic newsletter, Growing Awareness, features updates about the Adrian Dominican Sisters' permaculture site on the Motherhouse campus, along with educational write-ups on different species and permaculture best practices. Sign up here to receive Growing Awareness.

Past Issues:

Winter 2022-2023
Fall 2022