The last Toru Trail of 2024 took place at Mary Beth and Tony’s homestead, Tierra, a place close to my heart, being where I first experienced permaculture as a wwoofer 5 years ago!
Over the course of 37 years, what was once a bare, over-grazed dairy pasture has evolved into a vibrant and diverse ecosystem, thriving with life and abundance. Tierra is a living example of how patience, hard work, and permaculture principles can regenerate the land, creating a space that benefits both people and nature.
We spent the day wandering the 3.5-acre property, taking in the varying landscapes — from the temperate hilltop gardens to the cool timber areas and the humid wetlands. Mary Beth and Tony shared their journey of transformation, explaining how they’ve used permaculture principles to guide their vision and decisions. They described the importance of "spending a lot of time unlearning what our culture has taught us”, and focussing on ‘sufficiency not excess’. It is incredible to see how the land has evolved into a habitat for birds, insects, and lizards, and how the family now enjoys the fruits of their labor—berries, apples, pears, stone fruit, timber, eggs and an abundance of organic vegetables.
The stories of resource management—water, energy, food—and the creative adaptations they’ve made along the way were both practical and inspiring. From the orchard and native plantings to the exciting future projects, like the eco-cabin and expanded solar capacity, it was a reminder of the endless possibilities when we align our actions with the needs of the land.
As with all our Toru Trail events, a highlight was the shared learning and the spirit of reciprocity from all who attended. The crop swap table was a perfect example of this—with everyone walking away with new connections, seeds, and produce to nurture our own gardens.
As we gathered for lunch, we reflected on the day’s lessons and how the permaculture principles were alive in all we had seen throughout the day. Tierra is not just a homestead but a place of hope and inspiration—a reminder that with determination, we can turn even the most challenging land into a productive and harmonious space.
Fiona Naismith
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