Permaculture offers a road map to a softer energy descent and a more stable future while being applicable on many scales. More than just a way of farming, it is a way of living that strives to balance human needs with the natural environment. Upon course completion, students will be equipped with sustainable living skills such as designing energy, food and shelter systems reflecting nature’s patterns.   Through our Pure Catskills producing partners, we will highlight the importance of knowing your food supply at every meal.

 The 72 Hour Modular Permaculture Design Certificate Course will be held at GHU over a series of five weekends. The Design Course will be led by certified instructors Andrew Leslie Phillips of the Hancock Permaculture Center and Maria Grimaldi of Panther Rock Farm. Program graduates will receive the official Permaculture design certificate. Goldenheart Unidiversity has pastured chickens, honeybees, agro-forestry products, and a country store featuring locally-produced goods. GHU is also developing a Permaculture demonstration site.

Class size will be 12 participants. Lunches will be prepared and/or catered by T.P.s Café in Stamford with local products wherever possible.  Lodging will be available at Stamford Gables Bed and Breakfast featuring Goldenheart Eggs with course participants receiving a 10% discount and the Turquois Barn in South Kortright.

Both instructors have taught at tertiary institutions including Brooklyn College and SUNY Loch Sheldrake where Phillips has taught permaculture workshops and a permaculture certificate course.