干旱区生态环境知识资源中心

This paper reports on six years of results in the Permaculture restoration of a mountain drylands ranch outside Santa Fe, New Mexico and the next steps in the project which are under design consideration or in the process of development. Dramatic results have been produced in the areas of erosion control, pastureland restoration, wild species propagation, aquaculture, riparian zone (wetland) restoration, edible landscape design and installation methodologies. Current work includes a grant-financed replanting and redevelopment of the entire riparian zone of the ranch and the design and development of a trout-spawning pond system that is self contained and self-purifying. The paper will present significant details of specific strategies, projects, and systems. Results will be illustrated in the presentation by "before and after" photographs of the projects An additional 80 acres of the upper part of the watershed has been recently acquired and will be the focus of restoration activities during the next several years. Earthworks, ponds, water retention structures and energy systems will be developed on this remote site that will significantly enhance the work already accomplished downstream by regulating the excess water flows in the canyon and producing upstream plantings of seed generating species to restore the carrying capacity of the land.