Ecological Restoration

Our project is part of a global movement of transition from our current growth economy; based on fossil fuels; to a sustainable post-carbon society.

During two decades of continuous planting – following the principles of Permaculture and Ecological Restoration – the owner Piet Sabbe; converted an abandoned hill-side; depleted of topsoil due to years of slash-and-burn; into an island of vibrant green. As the decline of the capitalist economy; built on relentless depletion of resources; is drawing nearer; Piet has been building up biomass and biodiversity in his reserve; as a means to consolidate resilience. With Permaculture as a guideline; Piet Sabbe established barriers of Vetiver grass in contour lines on the slopes in order to stop run-off; he planted many species of Nitrogen Fixing Trees to fertilize the soil; he applies Hydrological Design to collect rainwater in the landscape; and he recycles stubble and kitchen waist into compost. In recent years; he introduced many different species of bamboo and palm trees; such as the Giant Bamboo and the Acai palm. He is glad to share his knowledge and experience with local farmers; visitors; apprentices and volunteers.

There are several ways to commit or participate in the project: 1) The real volunteer work: a three months commitment; 5 hours/day; in exchange for food and board (three meals a day and plenty of fruit); 2) An apprenticeship of at least one month; during which the principles of Permaculture and Hydrological Design are explained. At the end; a certificate will be issued. Contribution: US$280/ month; 3) Short-term apprentice or work-visit (less than a month); contribution US$20 /day (three meals/ day and accommodation).

You are invited to learn about farm-work on a tropical forest farm; a kind of apprenticeship in rural living. You learn about the people on their land; as well as the hardships and joys facing small farmers in Ecuador. You will learn practical skills such as planting trees; grafting on fruit trees; dig irrigation swales; how to swing the machete and harvest bamboo; bananas and pineapples. Setting up compost piles and general garden maintenance will be part of your daily routine. Also; for those who like it; administrative tasks such as documenting the bamboo trail; translating texts and updating the website may be part of the work.

Locals are friendly and open to visitors. The area offers great hikes in the hills with splendid panoramic views and remnants of rainforest. There are some small bathing holes in the river.

Locals are friendly and open to visitors. The area offers great hikes in the hills with splendid panoramic views and remnants of rainforest. There are some small bathing holes in the river. We are located in a subtropical area; which means that there are always insects; be prepared: long sleeved shirt; long trousers.