The Poor Prole’s Almanac

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" takes listeners on a journey to the Iberian Peninsula to explore the Spanish Dehesa, a 3,000-year-old agroforestry system that integrates livestock, oak trees, and grasslands in a sustainable way. The hosts, Andy and Elliott, uncover the fascinating history and ecological dynamics of this system, highlighting its resilience in the face of environmental challenges and its potential relevance for addressing climate change. Understanding the Dehesa: A Unique Agroforestry System The Dehesa is characterized by a low tree density, consisting primarily of holm oak and cork oak trees, scattered across open grasslands. This unique structure allows for a variety of land uses, including: Livestock Grazing: The grasslands provide fodder for sheep, cattle, and the famous Iberian pigs, known for producing high-quality ham. Acorn Production: The oak trees are managed to maximize acorn production, which serves as a crucial food source for the pigs. Crop Cultivation: Cereal crops are often grown in rotation with fallow periods, supplementing livestock feed and providing food for human consumption. Forestry Products: While not the primary focus, the Dehesa also yields valuable forestry products like cork, firewood, and charcoal. The low soil fertility of the region, particularly in terms of phosphorus and calcium, makes traditional farming methods unsustainable. The Dehesa system, however, thrives in this environment by prioritizing efficiency and diversification, utilizing available resources with minimal inputs. Ecological Benefits and Resilience The Dehesa system offers a range of ecological benefits, contributing to biodiversity, soil health, and water management. Biodiversity Hotspot: The mosaic of habitats within the Dehesa supports a rich diversity of plant and animal species, including several globally threatened species that rely on this unique landscape. Soil Health: Livestock grazing and the decomposition of organic matter from trees and grasses enhance soil fertility, improve soil structure, and increase carbon storage capacity. Water Management: The oak trees play a crucial role in regulating water cycles, reducing evapotranspiration and improving soil moisture retention. This system has demonstrated remarkable resilience over centuries, even during prolonged droughts. However, recent shifts in management practices have introduced vulnerabilities and led to a decline in the health and productivity of the Dehesa. The Importance of Traditional Practices and Transhumance The episode emphasizes the vital role of traditional management practices, including transhumance, in maintaining the Dehesa's ecological balance. Transhumance: This seasonal movement of livestock between lowlands and uplands allowed for optimal grazing patterns, prevented overgrazing, and facilitated nutrient cycling. Oak Tree Regeneration: Humans have traditionally played a crucial role in ensuring the regeneration of oak trees, a process that has become increasingly challenging in recent decades. The decline of transhumance, coupled with the replacement of sheep with cattle and the increasing abandonment of traditional grazing practices, has resulted in a cascade of negative effects: Reduced Soil Fertility: The lack of livestock grazing has led to a decline in organic matter and nutrient cycling, impacting soil health and productivity. Loss of Oak Trees: The "seca," a sudden die-off of oak trees caused by fungal disease and exacerbated by environmental stress, further threatens the integrity of the Dehesa. The hosts draw a parallel between the Dehesa's vulnerability to changes in management practices and the concept of "brittleness" discussed in previous episodes on silvopasture and multi-species grazing. Historical Evolution and the Impact of Capitalism The episode explores the historical evolution of the Dehesa, tracing its roots back to the first millennium AD. Despite periods of political and social upheaval, the system remained relatively stable until the rise of capitalism in the 18th and 19th centuries. Merino Wool Boom: The introduction of Merino sheep, known for their fine wool, in the 13th century, led to the rise of a powerful wool-producing guild called the Mesta. The Mesta's influence shaped land management practices and economic structures, favoring sheep grazing over other uses. Privatization of Land: Reforms in the 19th century resulted in the privatization of vast communal lands, disrupting traditional management practices and leading to the fragmentation of the Dehesa landscape. The episode highlights the destructive impact of capitalism on the Dehesa, as short-term profits and the pursuit of economic efficiency have overridden the long-term sustainability and ecological balance of the system. Lessons for a Changing Climate The episode concludes by drawing connections between the challenges facing the Dehesa and the broader context of climate change. The hosts argue that understanding the Dehesa's history and ecological dynamics offers valuable lessons for building resilient food systems in the face of a changing climate. Importance of Diversity and Adaptation: The Dehesa's ability to provide multiple products and services within a single landscape highlights the value of diversification and adaptation in creating resilient agricultural systems. Balancing Economic and Ecological Goals: The Dehesa's decline serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing economic efficiency over ecological sustainability. Rediscovering Ancestral Knowledge: The episode suggests that traditional management practices, often overlooked in the pursuit of modernization, hold valuable insights for building sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. The hosts emphasize that while replicating the Dehesa system exactly may not be feasible in other regions, its principles of integrated land use, livestock management, and oak tree stewardship can inspire innovative approaches to food production and land management in a changing world. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we talk with Lucy O'Hagan of Wild Awake about settler-colonialism, ancestral skills, and decolonization in Ireland. Our conversation threads together rewilding and rekindling relationships with places through traditional practices and rituals.     Check out Lucy's work at: www.WildAwake.ie IG: @WildAwakeIreland     Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" explores the dietary practices of prehistoric people in Ireland, highlighting the impact of climate change, ecological shifts, and the introduction of agriculture on their food sources and ways of life. The hosts, Andy and Elliott, take a deep dive into archeological evidence, examining plant and animal remains, pollen diagrams, and other indicators to reconstruct a picture of Ireland's evolving foodways over thousands of years. Navigating the Post-Glacial Landscape The episode begins by setting the stage for the arrival of humans in Ireland, tracing the retreat of glaciers and the emergence of a forested landscape dominated by species like juniper, birch, hazel, pine, elm, and oak. The hosts emphasize the role of human intervention in shaping the landscape even from these early stages. Introduction of New Species: Evidence suggests that early inhabitants, possibly from Britain, intentionally introduced animals like wild dogs, boar, and potentially even bears to the island, likely for subsistence, companionship, and symbolic purposes. This practice of "ecological engineering" reflects a deliberate effort to adapt the environment to their needs and preferences. Focus on Gathering and Woodland Management: The early inhabitants relied heavily on gathering plants for food, medicine, tools, and construction. This included a diverse array of seeds, fruits, roots, stems, and leaves. They likely engaged in practices like coppicing and controlled burning to manage the woodlands and enhance the abundance of desired species. The Arrival of Agriculture: A Time of Transition and Uncertainty The episode then explores the arrival of agriculture in Ireland, marking a significant shift in foodways and societal organization. However, the transition was not a smooth one, as climate change and other factors led to periods of experimentation and adaptation. The Elm Decline and Climate Instability: Around 6,000 years ago, Ireland experienced rapid climate change, resulting in a series of wetter and drier periods that significantly impacted the landscape. This period coincided with the "Elm Decline," a widespread decline in elm trees across Northwestern Europe, likely caused by a combination of disease, climate stress, and anthropogenic factors like land clearance for agriculture. Adoption and Rejection of Agriculture: Evidence suggests that early attempts at animal agriculture, particularly cattle farming, were initially adopted but later abandoned, possibly due to the changing environmental conditions. This period saw a resurgence in the use of wild food sources, indicating a flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances. The Arrival of Cereal Crops and New Dietary Staples: Despite the initial setbacks, cereal crops eventually became established in Ireland, with evidence of emmer wheat, barley, and other grains dating back to around 3,600 BC. These crops were likely introduced by farmers migrating from other parts of Europe. The adoption of agriculture led to the development of new technologies and practices, including pottery for storage, grinding stones for processing, and more permanent settlements. The Importance of Flexibility and Adaptation The hosts emphasize the dynamic nature of foodways in ancient Ireland, highlighting the ability of these communities to adjust their practices in response to environmental shifts, changing food availability, and new technologies. Shifting Preferences Based on Climate: The episode notes a shift from wheat to barley cultivation in later periods, likely driven by the barley's greater tolerance for cooler and wetter conditions. This change in crop preference, mirrored in other parts of Northwestern Europe like Scotland, demonstrates an understanding of matching crops to the prevailing climate. The Role of Wild Foods and Livestock: Despite the adoption of agriculture, wild foods continued to play a significant role in the diet, supplementing cultivated crops. The introduction of livestock, particularly cattle, further diversified food sources and provided manure for soil fertility. Managing Soil Acidity and Nutrient Depletion: The episode details various methods employed to manage soil acidity and nutrient depletion, common issues in Ireland's humid climate. These techniques included the use of animal manure, burning vegetation, incorporating shells and marl (lime-rich mud), and even burning animal bones to release phosphorus. The Legacy of Ancestral Knowledge and the Importance of Diversity The episode concludes by drawing connections between the adaptive strategies of ancient Ireland and the challenges we face today, particularly in the context of climate change. The hosts emphasize the value of ancestral knowledge and the importance of diversity in building resilient food systems. The Potential of Lost Knowledge: The episode raises questions about knowledge lost over time, speculating on the potential of ancient practices to inform modern approaches to soil management and food production. Learning from the Past to Inform the Future: The hosts argue that the adaptability and resilience demonstrated by ancient Irish communities offer valuable lessons for navigating an uncertain future marked by climate change and resource constraints. Embracing a Blend of Past and Present: They advocate for a blend of ancestral knowledge and modern scientific understanding to create more diverse, sustainable, and adaptable food systems capable of weathering future challenges. This episode also touches upon the role of population size in maintaining complex technologies and practices. The sources suggest that population declines may have led to a simplification of technologies and a reliance on more readily accessible resources. This observation raises important questions about the relationship between population density, technological innovation, and the long-term sustainability of complex systems. While the episode focuses primarily on foodways, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives and adaptations of ancient Irish communities, highlighting their resourcefulness, ingenuity, and deep connection to the land. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Bryan Dale about agroecology & all aspects of it; how do we make a better future through envisioning what a better future should look like? We talk about the power of Utopia and inroads into right-wing communities through fair labor practices with La Via Campesina. How do we pair all of these complex ideas and projects into other important conversations around land back and food sovereignty?   Check out Dr. Bryan's work: https://www.bryandale.ca/ The report "Visions of Food Systems to Come" https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/projects/feedingcity/wp-content/uploads/sites/31/2021/04/Visions-of-the-Food-System-to-Come_Version-1.0.pdf The Feeding the City Lab: https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/projects/feedingcity/   Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We chat with Farmer Rishi of the Sarvodaya Institute about urban agriculture and its limitations. We also talk about the bigger picture about reconnecting with landscapes and what constitutes landscapes themselves-- how do we define nature, and why is that important?   Check out Farmer Rishi's work: https://sarvodayainstitute.org/ Instagram: @FarmerRishi     Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we talk with author and podcast host Peter Michael Bauer about rewilding, rebuilding our relationship with our local ecology, and our role as white people on colonized lands, especially when we want to rekindle these relationships with nature?   Check out the North American Rewilding Conference at http://www.rewilding.com/   Peter's book & classes are available at:  https://www.rewildportland.com   Peter's social media on Instagram is @PeterMichaelBauer   Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we talk with author and podcast host Peter Michael Bauer about rewilding, rebuilding our relationship with our local ecology, and our role as white people on colonized lands, especially when we want to rekindle these relationships with nature?   Check out the North American Rewilding Conference at http://www.rewilding.com/   Peter's book & classes are available at:  https://www.rewildportland.com   Peter's social media on Instagram is @PeterMichaelBauer   Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we chat with farmer and author Nigel Palmer about KNF, JADAM, and sourcing local ingredients. How do we re-localize these practices that make sense, and what other tools are we not fully utilizing?   Nigel's book& classes are available at:  https://www.nigel-palmer.com/   Nigel's social media on Instagram is @regenerativegrowersguide   Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" features a conversation with Marco, a proponent of natural farming practices and the owner of Microbes by Marco (@Marco_is_growing) . The discussion centers on the application of Korean Natural Farming (KNF) and Jadam techniques, emphasizing soil building, experimentation, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Beyond the White IMO: Embracing Diversity in Microorganisms The conversation begins by addressing a common misconception in IMO (Indigenous Microorganism) collection. While the traditional goal is to harvest white, fluffy IMO colonies, Marco advocates for embracing the diversity of microorganisms present, including those with different colors. He believes that focusing solely on white IMO limits the potential benefits of a wider range of microbes and does not reflect the natural diversity found in ecosystems. Marco acknowledges the preference for white, fuzzy mycelium, which indicates the presence of bacteria and fungi that break down organic matter. However, he emphasizes that other colors, such as reds, greens, yellows, blues, and purples, represent different microbial communities that can contribute to soil health. He argues that selecting only white IMO reflects a human bias toward cleanliness and order, while nature thrives on diversity. Marco suggests that different fungi may offer varying benefits depending on the season and plant growth stage, emphasizing the need for further research in this area. Experimentation and Innovation in Natural Farming Both Marco and Andy highlight the importance of experimentation in natural farming, recognizing that the field is relatively new and lacks extensive research compared to conventional agriculture. They discuss the potential for discovering new applications for different IMO collections and other innovative practices, like using fish tank water as a microbial inoculant. Marco shares his experience using fish tank water, rich in aquatic microorganisms, as a beneficial input for his plants. He explains that he noticed similarities between the microbes found in his soil and those in his aquarium water, suggesting a symbiotic relationship between terrestrial and aquatic microbial communities. Andy connects this concept to his own practice of using silt from his duck ponds to fertilize fruit and nut trees. The conversation emphasizes the importance of observation, intuition, and a willingness to try new things in natural farming, drawing inspiration from traditional practices and recognizing that many beneficial techniques were likely discovered through trial and error in the past. Matching Inputs to Plant Needs and Growth Stages Marco explains his approach to choosing inputs, emphasizing the need to match them with the specific growth stage of the plant. He rejects the rigid schedules often promoted by commercial fertilizer companies and instead advocates for a more intuitive approach that observes the plant's needs and responds accordingly. During the vegetative stage, Marco prioritizes leafy JLFs (fermented plant juices), like comfrey, which are rich in nitrogen and growth hormones. As plants transition to flowering, he incorporates more fruit-based FPJs and KNF inputs, like sugar, to support the plant's increased carbohydrate demands. Marco also emphasizes the importance of monitoring the strength of his feeds using EC meters to avoid burning plants. The Potential for Scaling Up Natural Farming Practices The episode explores the possibility of scaling up natural farming practices to feed a larger population. While acknowledging the challenges, both Marco and Andy express optimism about the potential impact of widespread adoption. Marco envisions a system where communities collect organic waste and invest in large-scale JLF and IMO production, reducing landfill waste and enriching local soils. Andy suggests that even a quarter of households composting and recycling could significantly impact resource conservation and environmental health. They highlight the economic potential of natural farming inputs, such as KNF-based landscaping fertilizers, and the vast environmental benefits of reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. The conversation concludes with a hopeful outlook on the future of natural farming, emphasizing its accessibility, connection to human history, and potential to create a more sustainable and equitable food system. Adapting Natural Farming Practices to Indoor Growing The discussion shifts to the unique challenges and considerations of indoor growing, particularly adapting natural farming principles to a controlled environment. Marco shares his methods for creating a thriving living soil ecosystem within an indoor grow space. He emphasizes the importance of replicating the layered structure of natural soil horizons, including a gravel and sand filter base, an organic topsoil layer, and a clay-rich organic matter layer with a companion crop. Marco advocates for inoculating the indoor soil with a diverse range of IMOs and beneficial organisms, like isopods, worms, springtails, and mites, to create a balanced soil food web. He allows the soil to balance itself for several weeks before planting, using beneficial bacteria like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control pests. Reducing Reliance on External Inputs: Experimenting with Alternatives Marco discusses his efforts to reduce reliance on external inputs, particularly in IMO production. He plans to experiment with using ground cannabis stalks as a grain substitute in his IMO 3 production, reducing the need to purchase grain. For IMO 5, which requires a high-nitrogen source, he successfully utilized fermented comfrey solids as a manure substitute. Andy shares his experience substituting brown rice flour for sugar in his microbial teas, finding it to be an effective alternative. This exchange highlights the ongoing search for locally sourced, sustainable alternatives to conventional inputs in natural farming practices. Addressing Race and Identity in the Natural Farming Movement The episode concludes with a discussion about the intersection of race, identity, and the natural farming movement. Andy raises concerns about the potential for overlap between natural farming philosophies and problematic ideologies, like "blood and soil" rhetoric. Marco acknowledges the history of injustice in agriculture, particularly the displacement and disenfranchisement of minority farmers due to the practices of large-scale industrial agriculture. He views natural farming as a pathway to liberation and empowerment, offering a low-cost, accessible alternative to the chemical-intensive practices that have often marginalized smaller and minority farmers. Marco emphasizes the educational and community-building aspects of natural farming, believing that it can create a more equitable and inclusive agricultural landscape. Check out Marco on IG at @Marco_is_growing and @VirgininiaGrown Also check out his work at: www.microbesbymarco.com For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" introduces listeners to Jadam, a Korean natural farming method emphasizing soil building and microbial diversity. The hosts, Andy and Elliott, contrast Jadam with Korean Natural Farming (KNF), exploring the nuances and benefits of each approach while emphasizing the importance of adapting these practices to local conditions and personal preferences. Challenging Conventional Notions of "Good" and "Bad" Bacteria Jadam distinguishes itself from KNF by advocating for a holistic view of the soil microbiome. While KNF often focuses on cultivating specific "good" bacteria, Jadam embraces the concept of microbial diversity, recognizing the vital roles of both beneficial and potentially harmful microorganisms in a balanced ecosystem. Diversity as the Key: Jadam argues that attempting to eliminate so-called "bad" bacteria disrupts the natural balance and can lead to unintended consequences. Nature's Complexity: The hosts point out that our understanding of soil microbiology is limited, and that focusing solely on a few known "good" bacteria oversimplifies the intricate web of interactions within the soil. Self-Regulation through Diversity: Jadam proposes that a diverse microbial community, including pathogens in small amounts, can self-regulate and contribute to a healthier and more resilient ecosystem. Rethinking the Role of Sugar and Anaerobic Activity Jadam diverges from KNF in its approach to using sugar and fostering anaerobic activity. While KNF frequently utilizes brown sugar to extract nutrients and encourage microbial growth, Jadam suggests that excessive sugar can acidify the soil and potentially lead to disease outbreaks. The Role of Anaerobics: Jadam acknowledges the importance of anaerobic processes in nutrient cycling, arguing that while aerobic fermentation may destroy some vitamins and amino acids, anaerobic digestion can make nutrients more accessible. Fermented Foods as an Analogy: The hosts draw a parallel to fermented foods, which undergo anaerobic fermentation to increase nutrient availability and digestibility. Sugar's Potential Drawbacks: The episode explores the possibility that adding large amounts of sugar to IMO or food production could hinder the natural decomposition process. Practical Jadam Techniques: Building Soil and Managing Inputs The hosts detail several key Jadam techniques, including methods for creating microbial solutions, fertilizers, and pest control solutions. They emphasize the simplicity and accessibility of these practices, encouraging listeners to experiment and adapt them to their specific needs. Jadam Microorganism Solution (JMS): The episode provides a recipe for JMS, a microbial inoculant similar to KNF's IMO, but created without brown sugar. This solution utilizes readily available materials like potatoes, leaf litter, and dechlorinated water to cultivate a diverse range of microorganisms. Jadam Liquid Fertilizer (JLF): JLF is another simple and effective input created by fermenting plant material in water. The hosts highlight the flexibility of this method, noting that it can be adapted to various crops and even used to create water-soluble calcium and other mineral solutions. Jadam Herbal Solution (JHS): This natural pesticide is made by boiling and extracting compounds from plants that repel or deter pests. The recipe provided utilizes Jerusalem artichoke, a readily available and easily grown plant. Embracing the Long-Term Vision of Jadam The episode concludes by emphasizing the long-term benefits and philosophical underpinnings of Jadam. The hosts highlight its focus on soil building as a foundational step and its alignment with anti-capitalist principles. Building Soil First: Jadam emphasizes the importance of creating a healthy and diverse soil ecosystem before focusing on plant growth. Challenging Capitalism: The hosts point out that Jadam's creator, Cho, advocates for sharing this knowledge freely and criticizes the commodification of natural farming practices. Balancing KNF and Jadam Throughout the episode, the hosts share their personal experiences and preferences, blending KNF and Jadam techniques to suit their individual needs and goals. They encourage listeners to experiment with both approaches, finding the balance that works best for them. Overall, this episode offers a detailed introduction to the principles and practices of Jadam, emphasizing its focus on microbial diversity, the responsible use of inputs like sugar, and the importance of a long-term perspective on soil health and natural farming. The hosts encourage a spirit of experimentation and adaptation, recognizing that both KNF and Jadam offer valuable tools for creating more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.