All Ideas Welcome!
We have several sustainability projects in mind that align well with our vision and goals. We are open to all ideas and inputs. Finalized projects will be determined based on member interest and skill.
Renewable Energy
We are nearing a golden age in renewable energy resources, and Maryland is committed to helping residents take advantage of clean energy options. Off-grid solar energy systems are specifically noted as legal in Maryland legislation, allowing us to bypass the legal challenges many ecovillages face. Collecting rainwater is also legal, and something we intend to consider further. Several county-based incentives make renewable energy establishments particularly attractive in Maryland.
Aquaponics
Aquaponics is the use of fish as a source of fertilizer for plants. Fish waste is converted to nitrates, which feed the plants, by naturally occurring bacteria. Both fish and plants can be harvested and replenished as a food supply. Aquaponics is an innovative, sustainable way of feeding a small community of people. Investing in the development of aquaponics will also allow our community to give back by hosting schools tours and produce income with community workshops.
Natural Building
Home building using natural materials is a time-honored intentional community tradition. One of the major hurdles to natural building is the fact that many states do not have specific building codes for these types of structures. Without building codes it is left to the owner-builder to certify that the structure will be safe by hiring qualified architects. This can be cost prohibitive. In Maryland, straw-bale buildings have building codes on the books. We are also open to other alternative building methods with the primary goal of building safe, affordable, energy-efficient homes in an environmentally friendly way.
Sustainable Forestry
Wood is a valuable and renewable resource and, if managed property, a small plot of woodland can sustainably provide the building materials for a small community, and possibly beyond. We hope to serve as an example of productive land management.