Permaculture Design Course

Course Overview

Over the course of 72 hours, participants will engage in a combination of in-person lectures, field sessions, and site evaluations designed to deepen the understanding of permaculture principles and apply these principles in various contexts. The course is structured to provide a well-rounded education, integrating theory, hands-on practical experience, and personal project development. Through interactive sessions, participants will explore the foundational concepts of permaculture, including ethics, principles, and design methodologies, and will gain essential skills in site assessment, soil health and regeneration, water management, sustainable food production, ecological design, and energy systems.

Participants will have the unique opportunity to work on a group design project specifically tailored to the Duke Farms site. This practicum component will challenge participants to apply their knowledge and creativity to real-world challenges, using Duke Farms as a living laboratory for permaculture design. I

By the end of the course, participants will not only have acquired a solid foundation in permaculture design but also developed the skills and confidence to implement sustainable practices in their own lives and communities. A certificate of completion will be awarded to participants, recognizing their dedication and achievements in becoming informed stewards of the land.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, students will be able to

1. Confidently implement sustainable practices into their own lives and communities
2. Demonstrate effective communication skills, enabling them to discuss permaculture design principles and strategies
3. Formulate well-founded, evidence-based solutions to address food insecurities
4. Identify and engage in meaningful discussions about environmental issues

Course completion requirements: Complete all 72 hours of total coursework.

Featured Topics

• Permaculture design principles
• Soil health and fertility
• Water management and conservation
• Sustainable food production
• Ecological design and energy systems
• Social permaculture and community engagement

Schedule

Thursday, May 9 – Sunday, May 12 -In-Person Part I (each day 8:30am-5:00pm, 30 min lunch break)

Thursday, June 6 – Sunday, June 9 – In-Person Part II (each day 8:30am-5:00pm, 30 min lunch break)

About the Instructor

Wayne Weisman s a permaculture teacher, designer, consultant and author. He lives in Carbondale, Illinois with his wife, Frances and daughter, Halima. He was certified to teach permaculture by Bill Mollison, the founder of permaculture, in 1999. Wayne has taught hundreds of Permaculture Design Courses around the world. He has served as a consultant and lecturer to educators, school administrators, business leaders, and others internationally. For 15 years Wayne managed a land-based, self-reliant community project combining organic crop/food production, ecologically-built shelter, renewable energy and appropriate technologies.

Prerequisites

This program assumes participants have a basic knowledge of native avian species identification and understand general ecology concepts. Please note that field components will take place fully outdoors and will require travelling over uneven terrain.

Program Guidelines

Pre-registration is required, walk-ins are not be accepted. Please let us know if you are no longer able to attend so your space can be offered to someone else. Cancellations received at least 48 hours in advance are eligible for a refund, if applicable. Programs at Duke Farms are RAIN or SHINE, but in the event of severe weather, classes may be canceled. Email notice will be given as early as possible via email and refunds will be issued in the case of cancellations.

We provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate, please contact us at registrations@dukefarms.org.