In April, May, and June Avalon Organic Gardens & EcoVillage will be offering a series of 6-hour workshops on sustainable practices.  Avalon Organic Gardens & EcoVillage, located in Tumacácori, Arizona, is one of the largest ecovillages in the world with an organic farm and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, and a community of over 100 people from around the world practicing various sustainable living techniques such as water harvesting, permaculture, organic farming, composting, “green” building, carpooling, solar power, and much more.  Three different workshops are being offered by experienced facilitators and staff.

Extending the Growing Season and Adapting to Global Warming: Sustainable Growing Methods will be offered on April 14^th and May 19^th.  This workshop will provide participants with a step-by-step theoretical – and hands-on practical – “how-to” approach to the utilization of greenhouses and shade as a component of sustainable living.  In exploring innovative and proven techniques in growing food all year around, relative to unique circumstances, participants will find that greenhouses can be effective with a minimal investment.  Learn about different styles of greenhouses, high-tunnels, hoop-houses, shade structures, how to build micro-climates for various plants and the usage of various irrigation techniques.

Food Forest Workshop: Theory and Practice will be offered on April 21^st and May 26^th.  This workshop offers participants opportunity for theoretical discussion and hands-on field experience in the development of a food forest in the Sonoran Desert climate.  Participants will learn the timeline for preparing, designing, and choosing a location, as well as the planting, maintenance, and harvesting of a food forest.

Earth Harmony Builders Papercrete Workshop will be offered on April 28^th and June 2^nd.  Papercrete is a natural building techniquefeaturing a fiber-reinforced cement application.  Participants will learn many ways to apply recycled material such as paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, as well as natural materials that are readily available – like dirt, sand, clay, grass clippings, and straw –into construction and landscaping.  With a small amount of cement and lime, natural fibers mixed together create a strong bond that is sustainable and practical in building and is more in harmony with the environment.

All of these workshops are from 9:00am to 4:00pm and include a delicious organic lunch.  To enroll or for more information call (520) 603-9932 or visit http://AvalonGardens.org/events