Permaculture is a relatively new concept in name, but the practices have been around for thousands of years. Las Vegas poses some difficult challenges, but “in this urban area, there are so many small choices that we can make that do have an impact,” according to permaculture designer Carmen Gonzalez.
🌳 What is Permaculture?
Permaculture was first coined by two Australian scientists, combining the words “permanent” and “agriculture.” It champions lifestyles and ecosystems that work in harmony with nature instead of against it.
🏜️
Why Permaculture is Relevant to Vegas
Las Vegas is susceptible to drought, desertification, and climate change. Historically, the Southern Paiute and other Indigenous tribes were adept at small-scale water management, but now the community is supported by Lake Mead, which faces a supply crisis.
🤔
How to Practice Permaculture
Gonzalez has some advice. Eat food that’s in-season, local, and organic whenever possible. Hand-pull weeds in your garden or use salt and vinegar to treat ‘em instead of glyphosate or Roundup, which can damage ecosystems, harm pollinators, and lead to adverse health effects.
Try rainwater harvesting. Nevada allows homeowners to capture up to 2,000 gallons on property. That water can be stored in a barrel and used on a couple of trees.
Water is often used to produce energy, so turning off the lights when leaving a room is a small way to conserve both. Consider washing your clothes in cold water, then hanging them to dry.
Sometimes permaculture is about giving something away to a person who needs it instead of throwing the item in the trash.
👁️🗨️ Permaculture Resources
Carmen Gonzalez runs the Las Vegas Permaculture Group, an online Facebook community that’s open to the general public. Springs Preserve is an excellent resource of exhibits and classes with an ethnobotanical garden in development. Make a point to engage with community gardens and visit local farmers markets to buy local, sustainable food items.
🌸 Learn More…
Down for a road trip? Gonzalez will be a guest speaker at the 2nd Annual Mesquite Weekend, March 23-24 in Arizona’s Golden Valley. That’s about a 90-minute drive from Las Vegas. The two-day event includes demonstrations, food, a seed exchange, and more.
➕ Las Vegas homeowners can also learn how to decolonize their gardens with native plants that complement the natural environment. [City Cast Las Vegas 🎧]
