Jan Spencer
Jan owns a mid 50’s suburban house on a quarter acre property in the River Road Neighborhood in Eugene, Oregon. The intention from the beginning was to transform this place into a permaculture shangri la. Living here and transforming the property has been a highlight of Jan’s life. See more of his bio here.
Answers to Candidate form:
How would you describe yourself in a couple sentences? I am an advocate of paradigm shift and an optimist.
How do the 3 core ethics reflect in your daily life? My 3 core ethics – by middle class standards, a substantially downsized lifestyle. Much of my time goes to advocating a society that places a high value on positive human potential and social/economic and political equity.
What are your hopes for the future of the northwest permaculture movement and community? I would love to see full on paradigm shift, a purposeful move past capitalism.
I chose 2 on the scale of 1-5, for participating online (1 being Computer/Online Involvement) (5 being in-person/on the ground local/regional organizing)
Whats your favorite ways to play? Bike riding and work parties.
What permaculture principle are you most excited about cultivating in your life? Tied, earth care, people care, fair share.
What initially drew you to here? Involvement with permaculture convergences.
When do you do your best thinking? Early morning.
Who is someone you look up to/admire in the permaculture world? People who put ideas to work in the real world. Ole Ersson at Kailash Eco Village.
Who is your favorite author? Why? What is a piece of knowledge you wish you possessed when you were younger? Our consumer society is an artificial production created to enrich the owning class.
What are you nerdy about? Paradigm shift.
What bit of advice would you offer to someone new to permaculture? Learn how permaculture translates into real life and what are the benefits.