Program Overview

Program Overview

The comprehensive course immerses students in the theory, concepts, tools, and techniques of permaculture design. The course progresses from patterns to details, ensuring a solid understanding of foundational principles before diving into specifics.

Learning Experience

The learning experience includes:

• Foundations and Core Concepts: Begin with the basics and build a strong foundation in permaculture principles; learn about the history of Permaculture and its related principles and ethics.
• Hands-On Activities: Spend time both indoors and outdoors, honing observational skills and applying what has been learned through practical exercises.
• Field Trips and Farm Tours: Cement concepts with real-time, on-the-ground learning experiences at various locations.
• Collaborative Projects: Work in small groups to develop a final design project that integrates all the concepts learned throughout the course.
• Design Homework: Expect to spend time outside of class on design assignments, due on weekends two, three, and four.

Program Details

Admission Requirements

This course is open to anyone interested in developing a productive, efficient, and ecologically sustainable landscape, including backyard gardens, farms, homesteads, and communities. Permaculture Design applies to projects of all sizes and scales. This course will benefit the novice and the seasoned practitioner alike and is open to all regardless of experience.

Program Completion Requirements

Attendance at all courses is required. There will be a final design project assigned in small groups that applies all of the course concepts.

Course Timeline and Structure

The course runs over four weekends. Typical days will see students both indoors and out, often at multiple locations. Expect to spend some time outside of class on design homework that will be due weekends two, three, and four.

Tuition and Fees

• Course investment: $1,375

Registration Information

• Registration closes 1 week prior to the class start date.
• A $50 fee will be assessed for any check returned by the bank.
• There is a $325 non-refundable deposit required upon registration, which will be retained in case of cancellation.
• Withdrawal must be submitted at least 2 weeks before the course start date to receive a full refund minus the deposit. Refunds are not permitted after the 2-week mark.

About the Instructors

The Shenandoah Permaculture Institute began as an idea between Dr. Ted Butchart and Ryan Blosser in 2010. The team has grown to include Trevor Piersol and Emilie Gooch Tweardy, with a focus on improving coverage and understanding of the human sector in Permaculture instruction, as well as offering teaching apprenticeships.