"The Whole Systems Research Farm has what it takes to make the concepts (of permaculture) a reality."  -Brent Wasser, Williams College Faculty

"The permaculture design course at WSD was not what the brochure said it would be... it was so very much more! ...Thank you. -James."  

"Full, rich learning in many dimensions - well balanced theory, design, hands-on, and also play. A generous offering - deeply meaningful and inspiring. Thank you!" 

"You have an amazing spot that perfectly embodied all of the concepts and ideas that we were learning about over the 12 days. All of your work with farming water is truly inspiring and as I return back to the beach it is something that I plan on implementing. It hit me yesterday as I was watering our sandy soil that we are always 1 week from serious drought here- without weekly rain our annuals are done."  John Ibsen

"Hi Ben! I had a feeling your PDC course would change my life, and it has - in many ways, on many levels.  I look at landscapes (and life!) differently now; priorities have shifted; new directions have opened up; and, frankly, hope is renewed.  I'll have to go into detail at another time, but for now just want to send these pictures for your collection and say THANK YOU SO MUCH!!  Thanks for giving so generously of what you know and do, for gathering such excellent and inspiring course leaders and drawing such an astounding array of fellow-students, for packing the time with such a rich diversity of learning experiences, and also for your own amazing approach, discoveries, abilities, and hard work.  Above all thanks for a wonderfully warm, happy, and memorable time… Many good wishes!"  Cindy, Garden Designer, Brooklyn, NY

"My experience was informative, busy, challenging, engaging, helpful, interesting and beautiful. The instructors are now friends as are all of the students and I loved every minute of it. Thank you for everything, it was unforgettable."

"This course will be a lifetime highlight."  Jon

"This experience was transformative. My head and heart are full. Thank you."

"Beautiful weather, land, views, people. Thank you!"

"Really well programmed and organized, packed with info. field trips, hands-on, practice, etc."

"Physically, educationally and emotionally stimulating. Life changing."

"The experience here is a life-turning one."

"Enlightening and inspiring experience into the world of permaculture. Valuable skills to take home and share with the world. Thank you."  

"The last 12 days have been extraordinarily rewarding and enriching. Thank you!"  

"A residential and educational immersive in a complete system site. Lived what we were studying." 

(The food was):

"Epic, local, organic, superbly crafted, sourced and presented."

"Wine tasting was incredible."

"I don't know as it could be improved much. Amazing."

"Joe is such an inspirational person. The food was incredible." 

"A model for everything we are trying to create."