Healthy Soils
Irrigation Ditch
All of the fields currently in hay are suitable for most forms of agriculture. The soil health of these areas is good compared with other farmland in the region. This is, in part, because the fields have been covered with vegetation for at least the past few decades. Without tillage, the soil accumulates organic matter and is better able to hold water and to protect the soil foodweb. From discussions with people at 4 Winds, there is no indication that pesticides or herbicides have been sprayed on site recently. If they want to have an organic certification for their produce, 4 Winds will need to confirm the lack of pollutants with further testing.
Drainage Flow
Freeman Creek
This seasonal water way, running along the base of the Hogback, is fed by the overflow from the irrigation ditches and is a tributary to Four Mile Creek. When the Buck Farm Ditch was planned in the late nineteenth century, the irrigation ditches on site were designed to send any overflow into Freeman Creek. Maintaining this feature will allow 4 Winds to prevent any fields from being overly inundated when the ditch is running.
Pond
a em Fre nC
Disturbed Soils
Recreation and Wildcrafting on the Hogback
ree
The soils around the driveway and barn have been highly disturbed by grading, vehicle traffic, and building construction. This area would need additional soil tests for heavy metals and contaminants before food production could take place here.
k
Because of the steep slopes and danger of erosion, 4 Winds residents and visitors should minimize their travel up and down the Hogback until there is a well-designed trail network. Once trails are developed to minimize the disturbance caused by hikers, this area can serve as a great educational resource for people interested in seeing a different successional stage of the native plant community. Much of this area receives partial sun and contains many wild edibles and medicinals that can be cultivated and wildcrafted.
Existing Pond
eC Fourmil
Natural Drainage Channel
reek
As additional water storage rights may be difficult to acquire, the existing pond is an important asset for holding a reserve supply of irrigation water and running a pump for drip irrigation. The pond is currently fed by the well though the contract can be amended with the Water Conservancy to feed it through the irrigation ditch.
A natural bowl formation concentrates a channel of water during large rain events. While this area is at risk of soil erosion, it is also a valuable point for collecting surface runoff from upslope.
The Buck Farm Ditch
An open irrigation ditch currently runs from the southwest corner of the property and splits off to feed the hayfields. A combination of two water rights, this ditch provides the property with 4cfs of water, which is an adequate amount for herb and vegetable production across all 60 acres of hayfields. 4 Winds does not anticipate cultivating this much acreage, so for the time being, they will have adequate irrigation access. Even with this in mind using plants that are adapted for drought conditions would make 4 Winds more resilient in the long run.
Microclimates
0
200’
400’ North
Though the majority of the terrace has a north-facing aspect, there are two small areas that face south. These may be interesting to explore for cultivating more sun-loving crops These south-facing slopes and the ridges on the property have drier soils than the valleys and the area around the irrigation ditches. Plant moisture preferences should be accounted for when planning reforestation or agriculture.
The Conway School • Spring 2015
Disturbed Soil
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234
Pinyon/Juniper Forest
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Bromegrass Hay Field
Brigette Schabdach and
Gambel’s Oak Forest
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
4 Winds would like to use the property to grow food and herbs both commercially and for the residents. Across the hayfields, the conditions are favorable for cultivating a variety of crops. The forested areas may be explored for cultivating shadetolerant crops but special care should be taken not to interrupt the existing functions of these ecosystems for soil protection. The disturbed soils around the existing buildings need further testing to determine the safety of growing food in this area.
Agricultural Analysis
Healthy soils, full sun, and access to irrigation provide many options for siting agriculture in the hayfields.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Agricultural Analysis
12/23
Community Garden
Horse Pasture
An 8-acre horse pasture sits at the bottom of the slope to the north. It encircles an existing oak grove and the residential area, providing the horses with a varied landscape and the potential to interact with the landowners. Full sun and healthy soils makes this a promising place for locating pasture land. The northern property boundary is revegetated to provide screening from the downslope neighbors.
A 2-acre community vegetable garden expands to the south of the residential zone. This lies outside of the disturbed soils around the existing barn area and would be a good location for food production. Depending on the needs of 4 Winds, these gardens can provide food for the residents and/or guests. An equipment shed is located outside the fields, easily accessible for those working in the garden. The irrigation ditch that brings water through the main agricultural area continues downslope to the southeast corner of the community gardens, where a pump could feed an on-contour drip irrigation system.
Parking
Hayfield
Healing Center and Education Center A Gateway to 4 Winds
Once cresting on to the terrace, visitors catch a brief glimpse of the healing center, which orients them to the property while concealing the grand views of the mountains until they have left their vehicle. A revegetated oak grove provides a visual barrier between the 50-car unpaved parking lot and the peaceful experience of the healing center. After a short hundred-foot walk from the parking lot, visitors enter into an expansive view of the property and surrounding landscape.
Walking Path
Activity on the 4 Winds property centers around a campus located near the existing barn. This area includes a 2,500-squarefoot multi-use cultivation arts studio and education center, 500 square feet for vermiculture production, changing rooms, an herb processing facility, and housing for guests and interns, and storage for farm equipment. A variety of campus layouts can fulfill the needs of 4 Winds and are appropriate for the site conditions. (See Healing Center sheet for further detail on campus design alternatives.)
Pasture Freeman Creek
Diverse and Resilient Agriculture
The main agricultural zone supports commercial production, research opportunities, and demonstration sites for sustainable food production for the region. Using the vegetative patterns and soils of the native ecosystem as a model, the 4 Winds agricultural system is designed to build soil, harvest water, and sequester carbon dioxide. (See sheet 17-20 for agricultural detail.)
A Secluded Meadow
The southern piece of the property is kept largely in hayfields with active reforestation of native trees and shrubs taking place in smaller patches. A path leads visitors from the parking lot and through the existing oak forest to these fields. Tucked within the existing oak groves, the fields offer a more peaceful experience than the busyness of the healing center. This is a good area for a meditation spot.
0
200’
The Conway School • Spring 2015
Horse Barn
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234
Solar Panels
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Four permanent residential units lie in the northern fields and are separated from the healing center by a private road. Full sun and southern exposure help to warm the houses throughout the year. Windbreaks located to the north of each house reduce thermal loss and give residents a feeling of enclosure and security.
Brigette Schabdach and
Residential Zone
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
This schematic master plan is designed to maintain clear distinctions between the agricultural areas, the healing and education center, and the permanent residences. In addition, zones of reforestation and agroforestry help to expand the existing ecosystem services of soil building, water conservation and infiltration, food and energy production, erosion protection, and wildlife habitat.
Schematic Plan
A residential area and variety of agricultural zones surround a central activity hub around the existing barn.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Schematic Plan
400’ North
13/23
Herb processing, commercial kitchen, cafe
The east side of the arena barn isgreenhouses used for storage of farm Farm storage, equipment. The stables on the northern side can be used for food crop processing and storage. 4 Winds has discussed the possibility of vermiculture operations at a commercial scale on the property. The location of the vermiculture facility is flexible and can integrate with the other functions of this large storage space, or be sectioned off within it.
Treatment Center In both alternatives Brigette and Joel’s current house serves as a treatment center. They have already renovated it to accommodate the future needs of practitioners in massage, acupuncture, herbalism, and other alternative health treatments. This building serves these functions in both alternatives.
Southern Greenhouses
In this layout, the stables on the southeast side of the barn are converted into greenhouses for housing starts for herb production. This side of the barn provides space for food and herb production in greenhouses, along with a commercial kitchen in the middle and a small cafe in the southwest corner.
Spacious Classroom
Entrance, retail space Cultivation arts studios, changing rooms
0
100’
200’
Herb processing, commercial kitchen, cafe
North
The arena in the barn becomes an expansive space for large yoga and martial arts classes. Skylights let light in through the barn roof. A smaller additional studio comes off a hallway to the north, and movable walls allow this space to accommodate a variety of gatherings from seminars to weddings.
Farm storage, greenhouses
Large, South-facing Yoga Studio
Campus Village Temporary Residences
A yoga studio in the north receives full sun through large windows in the south. To maintain cool temperatures in the summer, the studio could have large barn doors, or air vents that can open to create refreshing cross-breezes. An extendable awning over the south-facing windows could provide shade and further cooling in the summer.
The existing five apartment units will remain in both alternatives as housing for interns and visitors. They can accommodate 10 to 15 people.
Key Plan
Welcoming Area
The west side of the barn contains a large entry and retail space. Two changing rooms in the north are located adjacent to the yoga studio. In the south, a small, non-commercial greenhouse provides a comfortable place to sit while helping to warm the entry during cold months.
Outdoor Room Frames Views to South
The layout of the new buildings forms a horseshoe that wraps around a comfortable outdoor room. This courtyard opens to the south to frame dramatic mountain views and maintain southern exposure for passive solar buildings. This is area is also well suited for outdoor yoga classes in good weather.
0
100’
200’
North
The Conway School • Spring 2015
Storage Space
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234
Cultivation arts studios, changing rooms
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Barn Retrofit
Brigette Schabdach and
The layout of the healing center campus will be influenced by the decision to keep or tear down the barn. If the barn is determined to be stable and cost-effective to retrofit, 4 Winds may choose to convert it into a large multi-use structure that houses classes as well as herb and food processing. If the barn is not cost-effective to retrofit, new smaller buildings housing different activities can separate functions into smaller buildings, creating a cozy and energy efficient village.
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
Entrance, retail space
Activity Zone Zoom-in
The layout of the healing center campus can revolve around a retrofitted barn or a cluster of new buildings.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Activity Zone Zoom-in
14/23
Sun or Shade
Water
Layer
Latin Name
Common Name
Sun or Shade
Water
Oatstraw
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Urtica dioica
Stinging Nettles
Sun to Part
Moist
Herbaceous
Achillea millefolium
Yarrow
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Valeriana officinalis
Valerian
Full Sun
Moist
Herbaceous
Althea officinalis
Marshmallow
Full Sun
Moist
Herbaceous
Verbascum olympicum
Greek Mullein*
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Amaranthus retroflexus
Redroot
Full Sun
Moist
Overstory
Aesculus hippocastanum
Horse Chestnut*
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Angelica sinensis
Dong Quai
Sun to Part
Moist
Overstory
Crataegus rivularis
River Hawthorn
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Corydalis yanhusuo
Corydalis, Yan Hu So
Sun to Part
Moist
Overstory
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Echinacea angustifolia
Blacksamson Echinacea
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Vine
Mahonia aquifolium
Oregon Grape Root
Part to Shade
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea, Purple Coneflower
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Vine
Passiflora incarnata
Passionflower**
Full Sun
Moist
Herbaceous
Eqisetum spp.
Horsesetail (Dwarf or Woodland)
Sun to Part
Moist
Woody Midstory
Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood*
Full Sun
Moist
Herbaceous
Euphrasia officinalis
Eyebright
Sun to part
Moist
Woody Midstory
Artemisia vulgaris
Mugwort
Sun to Part
Moist
Herbaceous
Filipendula (Syn. Spirea) ulmaria
Meadowsweet, Queen of the Meadow
Sun to Part
Moist to Wet
Woody Midstory
Lavendula spp.
Lavender
Herbaceous
Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Lycium barbarum
Goji* **
Sun to Part
Moist
Herbaceous
Gentiana lutea
Yellow Gentian
Sun to Part
Moist
Woody Midstory
Rosa canina
Rose Hips
Sun to Part
Moist to Wet
Herbaceous
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Rosa damascena
Rose Petals
Herbaceous
Humulus lupulus
Hops
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Rubus idaeus
Raspberry
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Hypericum perforatum
St. Johns Wort
Sun to Part
Moist
Woody Midstory
Viburnum opulus
Cramp Bark
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Inula helenium
Elecampane
Sun to Part
Moist
Herbaceous
Leonurs cardiaca
Motherwort
Sun to Part
Moist
Herbaceous
Ligusticum porteri
Osha, Porter’s Licorice Root
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Melissa officinalis
Lemon Balm
Sun to Part
Moist to Wet
Herbaceous
Mentha spicata
Spearmint
Sun to Part
Moist to Wet
Herbaceous
Mentha x piperita
Peppermint
Sun to Part
Moist to Wet
Herbaceous
Ocimum sanctum
Tulsi
Full Sun
Herbaceous
Petroselinum crispum
Parsley
Sun to Part
Moist
Herbaceous
Plantago major
Plantain*
Full Sun
Moist
Herbaceous
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Kinnikinnick, Uva Ursi, Bearberry
Sun to Shade
Moist
Herbaceous
Rumex crispus
Yellow or Curly Dock*
Sun to Part
Moist
Herbaceous
Salvia officinalis
Sage
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Scutellaria lateriflora
Skullcap
Full Sun
Wet
Herbaceous
Silybum marianum
Milk Thistle
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Stevia rebaudiana
Stevia
Full Sun
Moist
Herbaceous
Symphytum officinale
Comfrey
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Tanacetum parthenium
Feverfew
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion Leaf
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Thymus vulgaris
Thyme
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Trifolium pratense
Red Clover
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Notes:
• *Indicates tolerance for nutritionally poor soils. These plants could be cultivated in disturbed areas around the property. • **May not be hardy enough for 4 Winds’ climate. • All of the plants listed here are adapted for the range of pH found at 4 Winds, are tolerant to frost, and hardy to USDA zone 5a. • Other attributes to consider include mineral content for native habitats (eg. calcareous soils), and tolerance to wind. • Due to variability in the timing of annual first and last frosts, 4 Winds can increase agricultural resiliency by using plants that have variable fertilization and ripening schedules. For example, local peach farmers often lose their whole crop to late spring frosts that kill their fruit before it ripens.
Legend:
• Sun to Part -> Adapted for full to partial sun. • Part to Shade -> Needs some shade for optimal growing • Moist to Dry -> Tolerates moist or dry soils, prefers well drained soils. • Moist to Wet -> Adapted to tolerate wet roots and poorly drained soils
Brigette Schabdach and
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234 The Conway School • Spring 2015
Common Name
Avena sativa
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Latin Name
Grassland
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
Layer
Medicinal Plants
Providence Apothecary currently uses all of the herbs in this list for a variety of medicines. A larger list was condensed with the help of local plant expert Mary O’Brien to limit this list to only those plants which would grow best in the 4 Winds environment. The crops are listed by their ecosystem role to suggest how they may fit into an agroforestry system, or where they may be located in the existing vegetation at 4 Winds. For example, plants listed as herbaceous understory are generally more shade tolerant and may do well planted beneath a tree crop. Grassland herbs on the other hand may need full sun. While these plants are not all necessarily native to the Mid-Elevation Sedimentary Forest, they can fit niches within an agricultural system based on that ecoregion. For example, shade-tolerant comfrey, which fixes nitrogen, could be planted in the understory of serviceberry shrubs to see if the increased nitrogen improves the fruit yields.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Medicinal Plants
15/23
Sun or Shade
Water
Layer
Latin Name
Common Name
Sun or Shade
Water
Devil’s Tongue Cactus
Full Sun
Dry
Overstory
Cercocarpus ledifolius
Mountain Mahogany
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Cacti
Opuntia macrorhiza**
Beavertail Cactus
Full Sun
Dry
Overstory
Crataegus douglasii
Douglas or Black Hawthorn
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Cacti
Opuntia polyacantha
Plains Prickly Pear
Full Sun
Dry
Overstory
Pinus albicaulis
Whitebark Pine
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Cacti
Yucca baccata
Banana Yucca**
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Overstory
Pinus edulis
Pinyon Pine
Full Sun
Dry
Grassland
Amaranthus spp.
Amaranth
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Overstory
Prunus americana
American Plum
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Grassland
Astragalus canadensis
Canada Milkvetch
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Overstory
Prunus angustifolia
Chikasaw Plum
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Grassland
Astragalus crassicarpus
Groundplum Milkvetch
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Overstory
Prunus cerasus
Sour Cherry
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Grassland
Elymus canadensis
Canada Wildrye*
Full Sun
Moist
Overstory
Prunus virginiana
Chokecherry
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Grassland
Festuca octoflora
Sixweeks Fescue
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Overstory
Quercus hybrid
Burgambel Oak
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Grassland
Koeleria pyrimidata
Junegrass*
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Vine
Lathyrus ochroleuchrus
Cream Peavine
Part to Shade
Moist to Dry
Grassland
Lupinus sericeus
Silky Lupine
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Artemisia ludovicana
Sagebrush
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Grassland
Oryzopsis hymenoides
Indian Ricegrass
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Elaeagnus commutata
Silverberry
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Agastache foeniculum
Anise Hyssop
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Rhus trilobata
Skunkbush Sumac
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Allium canadense
Field Garlic
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Ribes cereum
Wax Currant
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Allium cernuum
Nodding Wild Onion
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Ribes lacustre
Swamp gooseberry
Sun to Part
Moist
Herbaceous
Allium geyeri
Geyer’s Onion
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Rubus deliciosus
Boulder or Rocky Mountain Raspberry
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Allium perdulce
Fraser’s onion
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Woody Midstory
Rubus parviflorus
Thimbleberry
Sun to Shade
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Allium schoenoprasum
Chives
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Amphicarpaea bracteata
Ground Bean, Hog Peanut
Sun to Shade
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Asclepias speciosa
Showy Milkweed
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Asclepias syriaca
Common Milkweed
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Balsamorhiza sagittata
Arrowleaf, Balsamroot Sunflower
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Calochortus gunnisonnii
Sego Lily
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Heracleum sphondylium
Cow Parsnip
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Ipomoea leptophylla
Manroot, Bush Morning Glory
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Lactuca perennial
Perennial Lettuce
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Lomatium spp.
Biscuit Root
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Lupinus argenteus
Silvery Lupine
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Montia perfoliata
Miners’ Lettuce
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Oxyria digyna
Mountain Sorrel
Sun to Part
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Physalis heterophylla
Perennial Ground Cherry
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Psoralea esculenta
Prairie Turnip, Indian Breadroot
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Herbaceous
Rumex acetosella
Sheep Sorrel
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Overstory
Acer grandidentatum
Wasatch or Big-Tooth Maple
Sun to Part
Moist
Overstory
Amelanchier alnifolia
Saskatoon, Serviceberry
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Overstory
Amelanchier utahensis
Utah Serviceberry
Full Sun
Moist to Dry
Notes:
• *Indicates tolerance for nutritionally poor soils. These plants could be cultivated in disturbed areas around the property. • **May not be hardy enough for 4 Winds’ climate. • All of the plants listed here are adapted for the range of pH found at 4 Winds, are tolerant to frost, and hardy to USDA zone 5a. • Other attributes to consider include, mineral content for native habitats (e.g. calcareous soils), and tolerance to wind. • Due to variability in the timing of annual first and last frosts, 4 Winds can increase agricultural resiliency by using plants that have variable fertilization and ripening schedules. For example, local peach farmers often lose their whole crop to late spring frosts that kill their fruit before it ripens. • Because these plants are native to the local ecosystems of 4 Winds, there is a good chance they will grow well. However, there are many other species and varieties that are non-native that may be just as productive. These include seaberry, honeyberry, pickswell gooseberry, and many others. More experimentation will be required to determine which of these will work best.
• Legend:
• Sun to Part -> Adapted for full to partial sun. • Part to Shade -> Needs some shade for optimal growing • Moist to Dry -> Tolerates moist or dry soils, prefers well drained soils.
Brigette Schabdach and
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234 The Conway School • Spring 2015
Common Name
Opuntia humifusa**
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Latin Name
Cacti
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
Layer
Native Edible Plants
Thanks to the work of researchers like M. Kat Anderson and Eric Toensmeier, and organizations such as the Woodbine Ecology Center, modern Americans are beginning to understand the genius of Native American land management. What was once assumed to be a vast wilderness by European settlers is now understood as a network of ecosystems that various tribes had co-evolved with to create abundance. Research from Anderson and Toensmeier, as well as the practices of the small remaining populations of Native Americans, show that there are many more edible plants than what the average American diet consists of. This list is meant to highlight some of these plants. Through an iterative process of reconnection and rediscovery, 4 Winds has the potential to not only use plants like these to restore ecosystem health on their property, but to establish a food source that benefits from the ecological patterns of this region, and not in spite of them.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Native Edible Plants
16/23
Disturbance
The cycles of this ecosystem and its ability for regeneration are largely dependent on fire as a source of disturbance (Bromme and McGarigal). Even within the larger multicentury cycles of this ecosystem, there are naturally many small fires that prevent the overstory from developing as a dense homogeneous thicket. These more frequent low fires allow some light to reach the herbaceous layer, and accelerate the decay of dead plant material to return nutrients to the soil faster. Low fires thus help regenerate the herbaceous layer. As discussed in Poreda and Wullstein (1994), the species count in burned Gambel’s oak sites increased by 33 percent from 46 species to 61 the spring following burning. While these cycles are important from a non-human ecological perspective, understanding them is crucial for developing ecologically integrated food production systems. For example, many of the herbs that Providence Apothecary would like to produce for medicinal use are adapted for growth in the dappled light of a forest floor. They prefer a moist climate that stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. To maintain herb production, 4 Winds should develop a disturbance regime to mimic fire for forested areas where they wish to wildcraft, and for new tree crops that are companionplanted with herbs. Even if 4 Winds does not wish to conduct managed burns on their property, there are other disturbances that can be used to remineralize soil. Raking the oak duff and composting it accelerates nutrient cycling and improves agricultural productivity. 4 Winds can also prune the overstory to thin the forest canopy. The wood from pruning could be used to produce other products for soil-enhancement, such as mulch or biochar. The most effective way to keep the scrub and brush back is to introduce high-
intensity rotational grazing to these patches. The digestive system of grazers achieves the same effect as composting does, but much faster. Using livestock saves the human effort of raking or pruning, and it provides 4 Winds with a yield of pasture-raised livestock. Research on Native American land management practices has shown that burning and other brush clearing techniques increase the abundance of acorns in oak systems, and the decreased brush allows for easier harvesting, improved pest management and disease suppression (Anderson 288). The Gambel’s oak acorns are lower in tannins and better tasting than many acorns, but they are too small for profitable human harvesting. If 4 Winds wants to harvest acorns for human use they could plant the cultivated burgamble (a hybrid with the native burr oak), or they could breed Gambel’s oaks on the property and select plants based on acorn size. As discussed in Anderson’s extensive research in Tending the Wild, Native Americans had great success with selecting wild individual plants that produced greater yields, and propagating from them. Applying this practice to the native oaks at 4 Winds could provide an opportunity for native food production, and valuable educational experiences for visitors and interns to see how this process works. The practice of selecting wild plants for productive traits requires participants to train their awareness of the plant communities around them. This is a great example of the experiential learning that 4 Winds would like to offer to visitors.
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234 The Conway School • Spring 2015
Growing plants that are adapted to site conditions minimizes the need for external inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, while reducing the dependence on supplemental water. As discussed in the vegetation analysis, the landscape on the terrace is dominated by Gambel’s oak shrublands with patchy pinyonjuniper forest covering the Hogback. Because both of these plant communities represent different successional stages in the same ecosystem, it appears that either the oak-serviceberry community has failed to establish with the same density on the steeper and more erosion-prone slopes of the Hogback, or that the most recent fire disturbances on the site did not reach the Hogback. How does thinking of these two communities as stages of the same ecosystem impact the planning process for reforestation and agricultural practices at 4 Winds? Even though the forest communities on the flatter part of 4 Winds do not have juniper/pinyon trees currently, it is reasonable to expect that these species, as a later stage of this system’s succession, could colonize this area (see graphic above). Perhaps, by planting seedlings rather than waiting for seeds to germinate, human management could accelerate the succession of some patches. Further, the plant communities from each stage of the ecosystem’s succession are also the plants that are adapted to living in the soil and climatic conditions at 4 Winds, even if they are not currently growing across the entire property. While not all of these native plants have been bred for food production, there are analogous species that can closely fit the niche of these plants. For example, the squaw currant that appears all along the Hogback under pinyons could potentially be replaced by a more agriculturally productive currant variety, such as the pickswell.
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Succession
Brigette Schabdach and
As modeled by Bromme and McGarigal, the Pinyon-Juniper-OakServiceberry Woodland takes approximately 200 years to reach the Tree Dominated state. This cycle can be slowed by disturbances like fire, agriculture, and forestry.
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
Ecosystems evolve over time in response to interactions of species with other species and with their physical environment. While ecosystems vary widely in form, those that are the most successful are the ones that have managed to weather the various disturbances present in its specific region. To plan agriculture that works as a resilient, integrated system, one can look at how local ecosystems have adapted and developed to their region’s conditions.
Agricultural Planning
An understanding of regional ecological processes can help inform the design of resilient agricultural systems.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Agricultural Planning
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This image shows an example of the furrows created by a keyline plow. These furrows aerate the soil and better infiltrate surface water while avoiding the damage to the soil structure and life that traditional tilling inflicts.
Off-contour Swales Convey Water to Ridges.
Swales come off of the main ditch and are graded at 0.25% slope to slowly move water across the landscape. This allows the water maximum time to infiltrate into the soil and can be dammed to flood irrigate the downslope, keylined fields.
Check Dams
Dams can be opened and closed to flood the swales with water. These swales can be allowed to overflow to irrigate the downhill fields.
Main Conveyance Channel
The existing ridgeline ditch is cleared and potentially widened to accommodate increased flow. This acts as the main channel for transporting water around the agricultural fields and continues down to the community garden for drip irrigation. To prevent erosion, this channel should be kept at as shallow a grade as possible and vegetated in and around the channel. If erosions occurs, the bottom of the ditch can be armored with large stones. When the farm does not need to be irrigated, water can be diverted to flow into the Freeman Creek. Overflow from the infiltration swales will also fall into this channel.
Key Plan
A gated dam allows a farm manager to selectively fill up off-contour swales. Once full, these swales will infiltrate water and can be dammed to flood downslope crops.
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234
Irrigation
Diversion Channel
The Conway School • Spring 2015
Water naturally flows off ridges and concentrates in valleys. On hilly terrains, this pattern often results in eroded valleys and dry ridgelines. These symptoms make it challenging for farmers to produce uniform yields when growing in hilly or mountainous regions. Additionally, erosion channels carry topsoil off the site and reduce the ability of the land to accept water. This results in inefficient water use and decreasing fertility of the soil. The irrigation system at 4 Winds is not currently set up for maximum infiltration across the landscape and instead oversaturates some areas through flood irrigation while leaving others dry. P.A. Yeomans laid out the keyline planning technique for soil building and water conservation in his 1965 book, Water for Every Farm. Since that time, practitioners in permaculture and agroforestry have implemented this technique as a way to effectively capture water at the higher elevations on a property, and then use gravity to distribute it evenly across the landscape. Because water naturally flows perpendicular to contours of a slope, barriers along the contour lines slow the surface flow, which provides more time for infiltration. Keyline design is named after the so-called “keyline” which is the part of the landform where the slope switches from convex to concave or visa versa. This contour is the most efficient point from which to collect water and then distribute it evenly across a landscape. Depending on the situation, designers will place either a dam or swale along the keyline and then plow with a subsoiler parallel to the keyline. By maximizing the infiltration of water and the time it takes to move through the landscape, this system supports soil organisms, which in turn assist in building more topsoil. Further topographic data and planning is needed for a keyline design at 4 Winds.
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Drip irrigation is a valuable strategy for reducing evaporation and ensuring the deep infiltration of water. A drip irrigation will most likely require a pump, which requires a standing water source. Although it may be difficult for 4 Winds to acquire the right for another pond, various methods can be used to hold small quantities of water when the ditch is flowing.
Brigette Schabdach and
Drip Irrigated Vegetable Fields
While a full irrigation plan will require a detailed survey and professional on-site observation, this sheet presents a conceptual plan of how 4 Winds can best use its water resources. Investing in more detailed site design before initiating food and herb production would help increase the soil fertility and build the drought resilience of the property.
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
A series of check dams redirects the water from the Buck Farm Ditch to infiltrate water into swales next to the crops.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Irrigation
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Key Plan
Brigette Schabdach and
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234 The Conway School • Spring 2015
Russell Wallack and Cary White
While overgrazing worldwide is one of the leading causes of desertification, grazing animals can still provide a valuable function in a healthy ecosystem. As grazers eat the above-ground parts of grassland plants, the plant roots can die back, which increases organic matter in the soil. Also, by keeping vegetation low, grazers create sun exposure for a robust grassland and through their manure, they aid in the rapid cycling of nutrients in the soil. If only one kind of livestock is allowed to graze over too large of an area, they will only eat the plants that are most palatable for them. In doing so, the plants in the pasture will select for fast-growing and often shallow-rooted species. According to permaculture farmer Mark Shephard, the key to good livestock system design is to find a balance between the overgrazing that leads to the complete loss of vegetation and under-grazing that results in the growth of undesirable and unnutritious plants. To accomplish this, he recommends a multispecies rotational grazing system whereby cattle are allowed to graze in a confined area for a short period of time and are then rotated out for grazing pigs. The pigs are then followed in turn by turkey, sheep, chicken, and geese. Because different animals prefer different plants, this system ensures that all different levels of the grassland plant community are digested and cycled back into the soil. Silvopasture refers to the practice of grazing livestock animals within a forested environment. The trees can be used as food and timber crops or as additional forage for the grazers. This system not only diversifies a farm’s yield, but also the fodder/ forage options for the livestock, which provides resilience against starvation if one option is not available in a season. The vegetation structure of this system stabilizes soils and sequesters carbon dioxide at higher rates than conventional pasture. There are multiple opportunities for incorporating a silvopasture system on the 4 Winds property. Many of the native trees and shrubs already growing on the site, such as Gambel’s oak, black hawthorn, and serviceberry, can be browsed by most domesticated animals. If managed carefully, animals such as cattle, sheep, and horses may be able to assist in native revegetation efforts. Additionally, 4 Winds may choose to supplement the livestock diet by bringing in more nutritious forage crops. Livestock can also be incorporated into food production zones as the “cleanup crew” to eat any surplus from the human crops.
Silvopasture
“In a perennial, restoration agriculture system, healthy pasture is key. The woody polyculture is important, yes, but the health of the pasture is what drives the health of the entire system. When forage quality is high it will support more animals. More animals provide more fertilizer, in the form of manure and urine, to the trees.” —Mark Shephard, Restoration Agriculture
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
By integrating animal grazing zones with woodlands, the livestock can aid in the regeneration of the forest ecosystems while enjoying the benefits of increased shade and forage.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Silvopasture
As shown above, in sillvopasture systems cattle graze between tree crops. This system combines the nutrient cycling service of grazing animals with the carbon sequestering and soil stabilizing benefits of a forest.
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Tree crops help to build soil, catch water, and buffer against wind and water erosion.
Food-Focused Alley Crops
A third site-appropriate alternative for alley cropping is to focus solely on human food production. For example, oak varieties could be grown for acorn crops, and pinyon pines could be grown for their nut. Large shrubs such as serviceberry, chokecherry, and hawthorn are all native to 4 Winds and could also provide a foodproductive overstory.
Overstory Crop Understory Crop
Pathway Irrigation Swale
The alley-cropped rows could also be used as rotationally grazed pasture land. The work of Holistic Management International and the Savory Institute has shown that rotational grazing and/ or wildfire play a critical role in grassland nutrient-cycling. Both fire and grazing animals break down the plant matter faster than it would otherwise decompose. The result of this process is that new growth is fertilized by the decomposed plant matter, and the grassland regenerates faster. This process may be preferable to mechanized haying, because haying removes nutrients from the soil and relies on fertilizer for continued productivity. One concern is that if grazers are allowed too much time in an area, they will eventually turn from the grasses to browsing on the woody plants. Therefore, careful grazing plans and rigorous management is required.
Coppice
Additionally, there are cultivated varieties of many of the plants listed above that may be better for human consumption and commercial production. A production-focused area should be fenced off to reduce wildlife pressure on these crops. The fence and frequent management of this area would decrease the likelihood of any plants spreading from the alleys to the native community, so 4 Winds could experiment with some non-native crops. Including non-native plants in the alley cropping system could diversify yields, and allow 4 Winds to use plants that have been bred for greater agricultural productivity. Some examples of plants that are being grown commercially and are adapted to the soil, sun and climate of 4 Winds are honeyberry, seaberry, golden currant and pickswell currant.
The Conway School • Spring 2015
Tree Crops and Pasture Alleys
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234
Hardwoods like Gambel’s oak and chokecherry produce straight epicormic shoots in response to fire or pruning. These shoots can be harvested (coppiced) for pole wood, fencing, or for basketweaving. Between the rows of trees, native grassland provides annual hay production.
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Coppice and Hay
Brigette Schabdach and
Alley cropping is an agricultural technique where trees or other longlasting crops are planted in rows, and the spaces between the rows are farmed for an alternative crop or crops. Alley-cropping integrates the scalability and uniformity of row-crops with the important ecological function of vertical layers within a forest ecosystem. As Dave Jacke states in Edible Forest Gardens, “A garden with plants in all its layers captures the maximum possible solar energy and offers more opportunities to produce yields”(Jacke 75). Alley cropping and other agroforestry systems incorporate perennial crops, which “add organic carbon to the soil, reduce or eliminate soil erosion by maintaining ground cover, and have a longer period of photosynthesis during the year, thereby fixing more carbon over time” (Funk). For a sloped planting site like 4 Winds, planning alley crop rows using the keyline system is advisable (see Irrigation, Sheet 18). Patterning alley crops with this technique helps to infiltrate water around the root systems of the crops, and decreases the rate and quantity of surface flow. This change in the flow of water not only decreases the erosion risk during a large rainfall, it also increases the effectiveness of irrigation. Alley cropping systems produce multiple yields. The tree crops can produce food such as nuts or fruit, and wood for fuel or building materials. The understory crops can also produce edible berries, leafy greens, and tubers, medicine from all parts of the plants, and forage or fodder for livestock. Using species adapted to the conditions at 4 Winds reduces the need for external inputs and can also provide all of these yields (see Plant Palette, Sheet 16).
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
Alley Cropping
Alley Cropping
By alternating rows of tree crops with other perennials and annuals, the agricultural zone can more effectively mimic the layering of vegetation in a forest.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Alley Cropping
Groundcover
20/23
Efficient buildings can allow the 4 Winds facilities to accommodate more people without having to extract further water and energy resources to do so. Additionally, systems such as graywater landscape irrigation and Living Machine wastewater treatment systems can return water and nutrients to the soil, improving the health of the landscape. The Living Building Challenge is the highest certification of sustainability that a building can receive today and uses a detailed set of criteria to determine the water, energy, and ecological footprint throughout its construction and use. Below is a list of highly efficient buildings similar to the planned use and context of 4 Winds. ¤¤ Arizona State Desert Museum, Tucson, AZ ¤¤ Boyne River Ecology Center, Shelbourne, ON, Canada ¤¤ Center for Regenerative Studies, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA ¤¤ Rocky Mountain Institute Innovation Center, Basalt, CO ¤¤ Omega Center for Sustainable Living, Rhinebeck, NY
Brigette Schabdach and
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234 The Conway School • Spring 2015
While keyline irrigation systems are relatively new to American agriculture, they have been used to great effect in dry climates throughout the world. By slowing water through the landscape, these systems can support soil life, improve the resilience of agricultural systems, and replenish groundwater. Below is a list of a few relevant projects. These farms include both newly implemented and fully developed systems and are made for a variety of purposes such as cattle grazing, food crops, and ecosystem restoration. ¤¤ Circle Ranch; San Antonio, TX ¤¤ Markegard Family Grassfed; Half Moon Bay, CA ¤¤ New Forest Farm; Viola, WI ¤¤ Rum Farm Organics; Wadi Rum, Jordan ¤¤ Taranaki Farm; Woodend, VIC, Australia
Russell Wallack and Cary White
The Omega Center for Sustainable Living in Rhinebeck, NY integrates passive solar design with on-site biological wastewater treatment.
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
The keyline system at Taranaki Farm in Australia draws students internationally for classes on agricultural water management and land regeneration.
Precedents
4 Winds can draw inspiration and gain insight from the success of other businesses and communities.
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Precedents
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The Conway School • Spring 2015
MIDDLE FIELD 6.8 7.2 0.21 1 4.5 118.5 29.4 25.4 347 3.2 0.6 3.7 17.9 28.8 10.9 98 581 233 144 13.7 12.9 25.4 0 9.1 1.8 7.6 5 14.68 58.2 62.1 117.5 120.27 6.3 58.2 51.9 33.23
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234
SOUTH FIELD 7 7.2 0.2 1 5.2 123.7 27.1 24.4 359 2 0.8 2.7 15.6 25.9 10.3 88 681 218 114 14.7 10.8 24.4 0 6.9 3.5 7.8 3.8 14.43 54.3 51.7 105.1 107.43 3.9 54.3 50.4 32.24
Russell Wallack and Cary White
6.9 7.2 0.25 1 5.3 141.8 29.2 26 399 2.7 1.1 3.8 29.4 42.1 12.7 160 605 224 135 15.4 10.6 26 0 6.1 6.6 11.7 7 15.82 59.5 81.6 191.6 165.73 5.4 59.5 54.1 34.61
OAK GROVE 6.8 7.2 0.21 1 5.8 141.8 34.2 30.9 429 2.1 1.4 3.5 43.5 59.8 16.3 303 676 237 136 13.9 14.8 30.9 0 10.2 6.1 16 8.8 17.59 68.7 123.6 363.1 273.73 4.2 68.7 64.5 41.29
Brigette Schabdach and
1:1 Soil pH WDRF Buffer 1:1 Soluble Salt Excess Lime Organic Matter Solvita CO2-C H2O Total Nitrogen H2O Organic Nitrogen H2O Total Organic Carbon H3A Nitrate H3A Ammonium H3A Inorganic Nitrogen H3A Inorganic Phosphorus H3A Total Phosphorus H3A Organic Phosphorus H3A ICAP Potassium H3A ICAP Calcium H3A ICAP Aluminum H3A ICAP Iron Organic Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio N Min Organic N Release Organic N Reserve P Min Organic P Reserve P Saturation Al/Fe P Saturation Ca Soil Health Calculation Available Nitrogen (N) Available Phosphorus (P) Available Potassium (K) Nutrient Value Traditional Nitrogen Test Haney Test Nitrogen Lbs Nitrogen Difference Nitrogen savings
HORSE YARD 6.9 7.2 0.27 1 4.8 141.8 38.7 31.4 375 6.4 1.2 7.6 41.5 56.5 15 211 607 254 152 12 20.7 31.4 0 15 < 0.1 13.9 9.3 18.75 78 131.6 253.3 227.88 12.7 78 65.3 41.77
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
N FIELD
Haney Test Results
Sample Location
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Haney Test Results
22/23
Finally, we are greatly indebted to the Conway School faculty and their tireless hours spent as teachers, advisors, project coordinators, and colleagues. Many, many thanks to: Mollie Babize Ken Byrne Kim Erslev Paul Hellmund Keith Zaltzberg
Joel Proctor 7906 CR 117 Glenwood Springs, CO 01234 The Conway School • Spring 2015
For sharing their wisdom about design and ecology in the Southern Rocky Mountains the Conway School thanks: Jason Gerhardt Stephen Jaouen Mary O’Brien Sara Preston Doug Serrill Eric Toensmeier Derrick Wyle
Russell Wallack and Cary White
Anderson, Kat. Tending the Wild: Native American Knowledge and the Management of California’s Natural Resources. Berkeley: U of California, 2005. Print. Condon, Scott. “Census Data Shows Valley Boomed | AspenTimes.com.” The Aspen Times. The Aspen Times, 25 Feb. 2011. Web. 24 June 2015. “Eartheasy.” Water Conservation: 25 Ways to Conserve Water in the Home and Yard. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2015. Floyd, M. Lisa. “Historical and Recent Fire Regimes in Pinyon–Juniper Woodlands on Mesa Verde, Colorado, USA.” Forest Ecology and Management 198 (2004): 269-89. Print. Jacke, Dave, and Eric Toensmeier. Edible Forest Gardens. White River Junction, VT: Chelsea Green Pub., 2005. Print. Lukas, Jeff. Climate Change in Colorado: a Synthesis to Support Water Resources Management and Adaptation. 2nd ed. Boulder, CO: Western Water Assessment, 2014. Print. McGarigal, Kevin, David Goodwin, and William H. Romme. “Vegetation Dynamics of the Uncompahgre Plateau Landscape, Southwestern Colorado.” Working paper. N.p.: n.p., 2003. Print. Owen, David. “The Disappearing Colorado River.” The New Yorker. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2015. Poreda, S. F., and L. H. Wullstein. “Vegetation Recovery following Fire in an Oakbush Vegetation Mosaic.” Great Basin Naturalist 54.4 (1994): 380-83. Web. “PVWatts Calculator.” PVWatts Calculator. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2015. Schwinning, Susan, David R. Bowling, and James R. Ehleringer. “Sensitivity of the Colorado Plateau to Change: Climate, Ecosystems, and Society.” Ecology and Society 13.2 (2008): n. pag. Web. Shepard, Mark. Restoration Agriculture: Real-world Permaculture for Farmers. Austin, TX: Acres U.S.A., 2013. Print.
Brigette Schabdach and
We would like to acknowledge the generosity, wisdom, and hospitality that has been shown to us throughout this project. For their contributions to this project as hosts, tour guides, stakeholders, and friends the we would like to thank: John Lee Chrissy Manes Ally Morrison Angus Morrison Joel Proctor Brigette Schabdach
Master Plan and Feasibility Study 4 Winds at 4 Mile Crossing
Works Cited
Acknowledgments & Work Cited
Acknowledgements
Not for construction. These drawings are part of a student project and they are not based on a legal survey.
Acknowledgments & Work Cited
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