Our Board Candidate Guidelines here.Here are our 2024 Candidates:
Laura Sweany
The NWPCC organization is a group I’ve been a part of for several years and one I have a soft spot for. I’ve decided to submit a formal application for membership on the board, and will use the online process to fill out and submit my letter of intent, photo, and questionnaire. I hope it can be forwarded for consideration by all current members. I look forward to bringing my expertise and experience to this passionate group, and hope I can help make a positive difference in our community.
Letter of Intent and Bio
I have been involved with NWPCC since the beginning of the organization; it was created in
early 2009 after the first Convergence of the modern era, (after the Bullock Brothers series of
“Bog Toss” events in the mid-late 1980s), and I have been on the board twice previously – from
2009-2011 and 2017-2020. I’ve also been on the organizing committee for the coordination of
the Convergence itself in 2008, ’09, ’10, and 2018.
I believe it’s more important every day for humans to learn to get along with each other in order
to support a skillful downshift from the excessive consumption and resource use that is fueling
the changing climate of the planet. I have spent the last 20 years studying human behavior – my
own and others – within the context of my participation in another group – the Goodenough
Community – and this puts me in a well-suited position to join an organization that is going
through a difficult time with its own interpersonal dynamics. These times of chaos can be really
useful (as well as very painful) as a way for the participants to sincerely assess their own
commitment to the organization and to fine-tune the organization’s place in the wider regional
regeneration movement.
My favorite PC principle is Stacking Functions. By looking for opportunities to get several yields
out of each action or element, we harness the whole systems design of Permaculture to make
the greatest change with the least amount of effort – and with all our busy lives, sensitively
minimizing effort and maximizing yields seems like a wise strategy in all areas of life!
Because of my 40+ years of experience coordinating volunteers in the theatre/education/permaculture worlds,
and my ongoing study of group dynamics and wise leadership, I believe I can most capably serve this organization in any position excepting Treasurer. I will commit to at least 2 years of participation, and hopefully more.
Thanks in advance for your consideration,
Laura Sweany
Laura Sweany’s Biography
I am a Puget Sound native, having enjoyed this distinctive maritime bioregion for over 60 years.
I’m a 5th generation Washingtonian; farming and gardening are in her blood. Having avidly
studied garden design since the late 1980’s gives me a firm grounding in traditional ornamental
design and maintenance. When I discovered the concept of Permaculture in 1999 my entire
focus shifted. Gone were the plans for elaborate ornamental beds and water-guzzling lawns;
instead I realized that gardening could be more than ‘making things look pretty’. Now my
passion is using the whole systems design principles of Permaculture to create sustainable
designs that include the whole site, not just the garden.
Using techniques like water catchments, solar harvesting, natural pest management and guild-based
polycultures to create vibrant and resilient soil, I encourage others to recognize the invisible inputs that
nature showers each and every property with all the time. As Horticulturist on Staff at Raintree Nursery,
and also Youtube video host (editors pick: Check out Laura’s Raintree Video here, and her interview of
Brian Kerkvliet, our other board candidate here)., I try to help folks all across the US understand the value
of edible plants in all kinds of landscapes. I also try to introduce permaculture concepts and regenerative approaches in
every video, consultation and conversation I engage in.
The exploration of Permaculture led me to the understanding that my life and relationships
would benefit greatly from the same kind of careful assessment and skillful use of regenerative
principles. I’ve chosen membership in the Goodenough Community to develop my interpersonal
skills, as well as give myself reliable tools to manage my internal landscape – and work skillfully
and peacefully with others.
Laura’s Answers to the BOD’s Application
How would you describe yourself in a couple sentences?
I’m an active and experienced volunteer that values group harmony as well as group production. My life revolves around minimizing my footprint while maximizing my impact on the world
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How do the 3 core ethics reflect in your daily life?
Care for the Earth informs all I do. People Care is why I continue to develop my own mental health and relational tools. Fair Share is a leading edge for me – exploring how to create new paths to minimize the value and prestige of wealth hoarding and maximize the sharing ethic.
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What are your hopes for the future of the northwest permaculture movement and community?
Hoping to provide programs and services that give people tools and hope to downsize gracefully and wisely.
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On a scale of 1-5, do you plan to participate more online (1) or in-person/on the ground (5). 3 being equally.
Computer/Online Invovlement – 3 At In-Person events and local/regional organizing
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Whats your favorite ways to play?
Gardening, cooking, fermenting, massage, board games, singing and sitting in a hot tub.
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What permaculture principle are you most excited about cultivating in your life?
1+1=3 (Stacking functions)
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What initially drew you to here?
Desire to be the change I want to see in the world.
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When do you do your best thinking?
morning
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Who is someone you look up to/admire in the permaculture world?
Anna Edey
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Who is your favorite author? Why?
Robin Wall Kimmerer – her combination of indigenous wisdom and scientific inquiry is rich, and her writing is lyrical and joyful.
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What is a piece of knowledge you wish you possessed when you were younger?
Pay attention to your impact on others.
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What are you nerdy about?
Edible plants. Permaculture. Intentional Community.
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What bit of advice would you offer to someone new to permaculture?
Admire the elegance, and accept that learning the system is a lifelong endeavor. Buckle up!
Brian Kerkvliet of Inspiration Farm
Letter of Intent
I am interested in being on the board in a interim capacity. I have wanted to participate on the board for quite some time. My hesitation has been time limitations as I am on several other nonprofit boards here locally and I didn't want to over commit. I have followed the evolution of the organization over the past 10 years or so and have attended and presented at several of the convergences. I feel I could offer some fresh insight and vision as to what the organization could evolve into. I have been involved with these community groups:
- Sustainable Bellingham a nonprofit in Bellingham www.sustainablebellingham.org
- Founded, Whatcom Permaculture, www.whatcompermaculture.com
- Co founded, Salish Seed Guild www.salishseed.org
- Regenerate Cascadia https://regeneratecascadia.org/
Thank you for the opportunity to serve the Northwest Permaculture community. ~ Brian Kerkvliet
Brian’s Application Answers
How would you describe yourself in a couple sentences?
I’ve been involved in permaculture and regenerative farming practices for over 25 years up in Bellingham, Washington. I grew up on South Whidbey Island in a creative community of people reconnecting to the earth, food and community. I currently co-steward, Inspiration Farm (www.inspirationfarm.com) a learning center, demonstration site and working farm north of Bellingham, Washington. I’ve been on this land for the past 30 years. I am a jack of all trades and involved in several community projects and education activities.
How do the 3 core ethics reflect in your daily life?
The core ethics are guiding principles in my life, and all that I do in relationship to the land, community and each other. Particularly the third ethic, which I interpret as future care. I endeavor to leave the world in a better place than we found it for future generations.
What are your hopes for the future of the northwest permaculture movement and community?
My vision for the Northwest Permaculture community is to form a network of Practitioners and organizations that can help educate and showcase the immense potential Permaculture has to offer. Much of our global and local climate and environmental, food, community problems can be resolved with Permaculture oriented practices. As a Nonprofit Org, I envision the organization evolving a stronger role in coordinating Fundraising and distribution. This could lead to facilitating events, communicating with our membership and a wider community through a variety of means. Possibly putting less emphasis on the convergence event and making more local decentralized opportunities for people to become engaged. I could go on but I will wait until we meet.
Whats your favorite ways to play?
Music and sharing meals.
What permaculture principle are you most excited about cultivating in your life?
Working the edge
What initially drew you to here?
the idea of creating a stronger more connected community thats building a brighter future.
When do you do your best thinking?
when I am walking in the woods
Who is someone you look up to/admire in the permaculture world?
Sepp Holtzer
Who is your favorite author? Why?
to many to list, each for they own perspective and topic
What is a piece of knowledge you wish you possessed when you were younger?
time flies while you are doing other things
What are you nerdy about?
Tools and Plants
What bit of advice would you offer to someone new to permaculture?
Just grow do it
Mansoor Ruddin
Letter of Intent
Dear Board of Directors,
I am writing to express my sincere interest in the NW Permaculture Board Candidate position, a
role I believe strongly aligns with both my professional aspirations and personal ethics. As an
avid advocate for sustainable living and ecological stewardship, I am particularly drawn to your
organization’s commitment to the ethics of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share, as well as
the holistic approach embodied in the 12 permaculture principles.
My commitment to Earth Care has been a constant theme in my life, demonstrated through my
volunteer work with local conservation groups and my personal choice to maintain a zero-waste
household. These experiences have not only deepened my respect for our natural environment
but have also honed my skills in resource management and ecological preservation.
In terms of People Care, I have engaged in community-driven initiatives, such as organizing free
educational workshops on sustainable living for underserved communities. These experiences
have underscored the importance of community engagement and social responsibility, values I
look forward to bringing to Northwest Permaculture convergence.
My belief in the ethics of Fair Share is reflected in my advocacy for equitable resource
distribution. I have been involved in initiatives like community-supported agriculture programs,
which aim to provide fair access to fresh, local produce for all community members, regardless
of economic background and inclusive of all.
Among the 12 permaculture principles, ‘Use and Value Diversity’ and ‘Design from Patterns to
Details’ particularly resonate with me. My work in developing community gardens has been
guided by these principles, focusing on creating biodiverse ecosystems and observing natural
patterns to design sustainable and productive green spaces.
I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Northwest Permaculture convergence, where
I can blend my passion for permaculture with my professional skills. I am keen to collaborate
with a team that shares my dedication to creating a sustainable and equitable world.
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my background, passion,
and skills make me an ideal fit for the role and how I can contribute to the ongoing success of
Northwest Permaculture convergence.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can
contribute to the meaningful work at Northwest Permaculture convergence.
Sincerely,
Manzoor
How would you describe yourself in a couple sentences?
I am a versatile individual with a deep appreciation for nature and a strong desire to contribute to building and conservation efforts. I am passionate about principles like Earth Care, Fair Share, and People Care, and I am committed to volunteering and educating children about the value of hard work and the importance of nurturing and preserving our natural world.
How do the 3 core ethics reflect in your daily life?
In my daily life, the three core ethics of Earth Care, Fair Share, and People Care are deeply integrated into both my personal and professional practices.
- **Earth Care**: My commitment to Earth Care is evident through my regular engagement in recycling and using sustainable products. I consciously make efforts to conserve energy and reduce my carbon footprint, and I actively participate in environmental conservation activities and spread awareness about ecological sustainability.
- **Fair Share**: I embody the principle of Fair Share by sharing resources and knowledge within my community. I advocate for equitable access to resources and opportunities, and I practice ethical consumption to support this value. My involvement in community projects and initiatives is a testament to my commitment to redistributing wealth and resources in a fair manner.
- **People Care**: Compassion and empathy are at the heart of my interactions with others. I am dedicated to contributing to the well-being of my community and supporting social justice causes. I engage in mentoring, offer help to my neighbors, and participate in activities that strengthen community bonds and collective care. These ethics are not just beliefs but are actions and choices that I consciously make every day. They guide my decisions and interactions and are fundamental to how I approach challenges and opportunities both in my personal life and in a professional setting. Through my application, I hope to bring these values and my dedication to this role, contributing positively to your organization’s ethos and objectives.
What are your hopes for the future of the northwest permaculture movement and community?
I envision a bright and flourishing future for the Northwest permaculture movement and community. My hopes are centered on seeing this community grow exponentially, both in numbers and in the depth of its impact. I anticipate a surge in innovative, sustainable practices that not only respect and nurture our environment but also strengthen social bonds. The movement is poised to become a beacon of inspiration and a model for ecological and community resilience. As awareness and participation increase, I see a future where permaculture principles are not just niche practices but integral parts of everyday life, contributing significantly to a healthier, more sustainable, and more connected world. The Northwest permaculture community has the potential to lead this transformative journey, creating a legacy that future generations will be proud to inherit and continue.
Whats your favorite ways to play?
In my application, my favorite ways to play involve engaging in activities that mirror the principles of permaculture and community-building. This includes interactive learning experiences, where I immerse myself in the study and application of sustainable practices. I enjoy solving problems and puzzles that are related to ecological and social challenges, as it allows me to apply permaculture principles in practical, real-world scenarios. Additionally, I find joy in creative endeavors that contribute to community resilience and environmental stewardship, such as designing sustainable gardens or participating in community-led conservation projects. These playful yet impactful activities not only align with my personal interests but also resonate deeply with the ethos of the permaculture movement. Through my application, I am excited to bring this sense of playful innovation and collaborative problem-solving to your organization.
What permaculture principle are you most excited about cultivating in your life?
The permaculture principle that excites me the most for cultivating in my life is “Observe and Interact.” This principle resonates deeply with my approach to learning and engaging with the world. It emphasizes the importance of taking the time to observe our surroundings and the natural processes within them, allowing us to better understand the environment and how we can work harmoniously within it. By applying this principle, I look forward to developing a more intuitive connection with nature, understanding its patterns and rhythms, and using this knowledge to make more informed decisions in my daily life. Whether it’s designing a garden that thrives with minimal intervention or creating living spaces that are more in tune with natural cycles, “Observe and Interact” provides a foundation for sustainable living and continuous learning. This principle encourages not just passive observation but active participation and experimentation, leading to innovative solutions and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.
What initially drew you to here?
What initially drew me to the field of permaculture, and by extension, to apply here, was my profound appreciation for nature and a strong desire to engage in sustainable living practices. The ethos of permaculture, with its emphasis on harmonious integration with nature, resonated deeply with my personal values. The principles of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share align perfectly with my belief in a more sustainable, equitable, and community-focused way of life. My fascination with observing and interacting with the natural world, coupled with a passion for creative and sustainable problem-solving, has guided me towards permaculture as a fulfilling path. This journey has been about more than just environmental stewardship; it’s been a transformative process of learning, growing, and contributing to a movement that I believe is crucial for the future of our planet and society.
When do you do your best thinking?
I find that my best thinking aligns closely with the permaculture principle of “Observe and Interact.” This approach is most effective for me when I am deeply immersed in nature, surrounded by the very environment that I am passionate about preserving and nurturing. In these moments of close observation and connection with natural systems, I am able to think creatively and innovatively, drawing inspiration from the patterns and cycles of the natural world. Whether I’m in a garden observing the interplay of plants and wildlife, or in a community space witnessing the dynamics of collaborative effort, these settings foster my most insightful and productive thought processes. The tranquility and richness of the natural environment provide the perfect backdrop for reflection, ideation, and the development of sustainable solutions.
Who is someone you look up to/admire in the permaculture world?
Based on my engagement with permaculture principles and my deep-seated values in sustainable living, someone I greatly admire in the permaculture world is Dr. Ayub. Dr. Ayyub’s work and philosophy resonate profoundly with my own approach to permaculture, especially in the way they embody the principles of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share. Dr. Ayub’s innovative methods and insightful perspectives on observing and interacting with our environment have been particularly influential to me. Their ability to blend scientific knowledge with practical, on-the-ground applications in permaculture design is inspiring. Furthermore, Dr. Ayub’s dedication to teaching and empowering others aligns with my own passion for education and community involvement. Their contributions to the permaculture movement have not only advanced sustainable practices but have also fostered a sense of community and collective responsibility towards our planet and each other. It is this blend of environmental stewardship, innovative thinking, and community focus that makes Dr. Ayub a figure of admiration and inspiration in my permaculture journey.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
Given my affinity for permaculture and sustainable living, my favorite author is likely someone whose work deeply explores these themes. An author like Bill Mollison, co-founder of the permaculture movement, could be a favorite. His writings, which delve into practical methods for sustainable agriculture and ecological living, resonate with my interests in Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share. His ability to convey complex ecological principles in an accessible way aligns with my own learning journey and my admiration for figures like Dr. Ayub in the permaculture world. Mollison’s work not only educates but also inspires action and innovation, much like the “Observe and Interact” principle of permaculture that I find so compelling in my own practices.
What is a piece of knowledge you wish you possessed when you were younger?
Reflecting on my journey and passion for permaculture, a piece of knowledge I wish I had possessed when I was younger is the profound understanding of how interconnected our lives are with the natural environment. This realization, which is at the heart of the permaculture principles of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share, would have deeply influenced my earlier decisions and actions. Understanding the significance of living harmoniously with nature, not just as a concept but as a practical approach to everyday life, would have been invaluable. This knowledge would have guided me to earlier adopt sustainable practices and to appreciate the importance of observing and interacting with the environment, as emphasized in permaculture. This early awareness could have fostered a more profound connection with nature and a stronger commitment to environmental stewardship from a younger age, aligning closely with the values and teachings of figures I admire in the permaculture world, like Dr. Ayub.
What are you nerdy about?
Given my deep interest and involvement in permaculture, I am particularly nerdy about sustainable living practices and ecological design principles. My enthusiasm extends to learning and applying the core permaculture ethics – Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share – in innovative ways. I am fascinated by the intricacies of natural ecosystems and how we can mimic these in sustainable agriculture and community living. This passion also includes a keen interest in the works of thought leaders in the field, like Dr. Ayub, and how their teachings can be integrated into practical, everyday applications. My nerdy side is most apparent in my dedication to understanding and teaching the interconnectedness of all living systems, a concept central to permaculture and one that I believe is vital for the future of our planet.
What bit of advice would you offer to someone new to permaculture?
For someone new to permaculture, my advice would be to start by embracing the core principles of Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share. These ethics form the foundation of permaculture and guide all practices and designs within this field.
1. **Observe and Learn**: Spend time observing natural systems and processes. This could involve exploring local ecosystems, gardening, or simply being more attentive to the natural world around you. Understanding the patterns and cycles in nature is crucial in permaculture. 2. **Educate Yourself**: Read books, attend workshops, and seek out resources from experts in the field, like Dr. A, who can provide both inspiration and practical knowledge. 3. **Start Small**: Begin with small projects that are manageable. This could be a backyard garden, a composting system, or implementing water-saving techniques in your home. Small successes build confidence and understanding. 4. **Connect with a Community**: Permaculture is as much about community as it is about agriculture or ecology. Join local groups or online forums to learn from others, share experiences, and build networks. 5. **Apply Permaculture to Daily Life**: Look for ways to incorporate permaculture ethics into your everyday decisions and lifestyle. This could range from reducing waste, choosing sustainable products, or sharing resources with your community. 6. **Be Patient and Adaptive**: Remember that permaculture is a journey. It requires patience, observation, and the willingness to adapt and learn from mistakes. By integrating these approaches, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of permaculture and how it can be used to create sustainable and harmonious living environments.
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