Social Ecology

Organic fruits and vegetables not only keep you healthy, they create sustainable local food systems. If you are concerned about where your food comes from, whats in it (or on it), or simply getting the best nutrition possible for your family growing your own vegetables and fruit is the answer.Note: This course partially satisfied the requirements for the Gaia College Diploma in Organic Land Care.

Now is the time to start your first winter garden for fresh home-grown food all year round. We cover what to grow, when to start, how to extend the season, harvesting, storage and preserving techniques. The course is a mix of lecture and practical activities.

This is a comprehensive organic gardening course for urban garden enthusiasts. Come and gather with like-minded, environmental conscious students to learn to create fabulous gardens without pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Gain essential organic gardening skills to start or enhance your own business in the rapidly growing organic land care industry.Note: This course partially satisfied the requirements for the Gaia College Diploma in Organic Land Care.

Organic gardeners focus on the creation of plant and landscape health. Plant health starts with the right growingconditions. Most of the plants used in our ornamental gardens did not evolve in our climate are we able to provide them with the soil, water and climate conditions they need to flourish? What about companion plants?Note: This course partially satisfied the requirements for the Gaia College Diploma in Organic Land Care.

How can residents of Metro Vancouver transform the way we travel to deal with global warming and the end of cheap oil? Learn the basics of sustainable transportation, illustrated with examples from cities that have quickly gone from gridlock to transit and cycling meccas. Well explore the surprising ways residents, professionals and politicians have created outstanding transit systems and livable communities.

Permaculture is a philosophy and a framework for re-structuring how we relate to the ecosystems we live in and the people we share them with. Complete the 72 hours of instruction and a team design project, and receive the internationally recognized Permaculture Designer Certificate. Experience real world examples of permaculture principles in action. Learn about social framework models that amplify our efforts.Note: Includes a weekend field trip. Travel/accomodation not in included in fee.