The Agroinnovations Podcast

Episode #103: P.A. Yeomans and The Bunyip Slipperimp with Shakerator

podcast — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:09:33 +0000

In this episode I play an interview from 1979 with keyline pioneer P.A. Yeomans. This interview was conducted by Bruce Hedge, Geoff Booth, and Phill Gall of 3CR Melbourne Radio. P.A. Yeomans died in 1984, several years after this interview was conducted. Special thanks to Darren Doherty for providing the audio for this interview.

Topics of discussion include the invention and utility of the key-line plow, strategies for building top soil, water at the center of land planning, intercropping of cereals and legumes, the fundamentals of keyline design, and forest ecosystems as processing plants for wastewater. Part one in a two part series.

Episode #102: Behave

podcast — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:56:48 +0000

In this installment of the Holistic Management Series, we are joined by Dr. Fred Provenza, a researcher at Utah State University. He has spent the last two decades looking at the behavior of grazing animals and how principles of behavior can be used for the economic and ecologic benefit of rangelands, pastures, and feedlots. Topics of discussion include the challenges grazing animals face in new and changing environments, epigenetics, animal culture, how animals select their foods, using positive and negative reinforcement to encourage desirable behavior, and some general principles of behavioral management.

Behave.net

Holistic Management International (HMI)

HMI Data and Documentation Blog

Episode #101: Permaculture On The Fly

podcast — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:00:57 +0000

In this episode we are joined once again by Darren Doherty, permaculture designer and consultant, for the second half of a two part interview. We spend a good deal of time discussing a series of spreadsheets Darren has developed as part of his consultancy. These spreadsheets are tools available on Darren’s website that can be used to further increase the permaculture community’s capacity to develop and implement effective projects. We conclude by discussing permaculture’s failure to engage the agricultural industry, and discuss the role of permaculture and Holistic Management in the ongoing and worsening deflationary Depression.

Making Sense of the Financial Crisis in the Era of Peak Oil (Nicole Foss Lecture)

The Automatic Earth (Nicole Foss Blog)

Darren’s Spreadsheets and other useful documents

Episode #100: Regenerative Permaculture

podcast — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 18:13:35 +0000

In this 100^th episode of the Agroinnovations Podcast we are joined by Darren Doherty, a permaculture designer and consultant who is an expert in keyline design, broadacre permaculture, and agroforestry. Topics of discussion include Australia as a source of innovation in agriculture, regenerative vs. sustainable agriculture, the life and work of P.A. Yeomans, the keyline orders or permanence, open source agricultural implements, and the Spanish Dehesa as a model for broadacre permaculture. This episode is a tour-de-force of many of the critical issues facing the permaculture movement.

Follow-up Blog Post (via the Agroinnovations Blog)

Episode #99: Ecological Imperialism

podcast — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:40:45 +0000

This episode focuses on the arguments in the book Ecological Imperialism, written by Alfred W. Crosby. Alfred Crosby joined me briefly to talk about this book. I have added to his comments by reading key passages from his book.

Topics of discussion include the success of Europeans in the New World, the significance of Pangaea and the Neolithic Revolution, the definition and explanation of terms like Neo-Europe and portmanteau biota, the failure of the Norse explorers in North America, European Imperialism in the Canary Islands, the role of weeds, animals, and disease in European successes overseas, and a biogeographical explanation for European conquest.

Alfred Crosby’s website

Ecological Imperialism (via Amazon)

Episode #98: Pasture Cropping

podcast — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 16:09:44 +0000

In this episode we are joined by Colin Seis, an Australian farmer who has invented a new way to grow annual cereal crops. Pasture cropping, as it is called, involves the direct seeding of annual crops into perennial pastures that are grazed at high densities prior to sowing. Colin relates to us what he has learned over the course of a decade of experiential learning with pasture cropping, including how it is done, the economic benefits, and the improvements in soil health and biodiversity that result.

Pasture Cropping

Holistic Management International (HMI)

HMI Data and Documentation Blog

Episode #97: Towards Holistic Research

podcast — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 17:14:34 +0000

In this episode we are joined by Josh Egenolf, who is a Ph.d. candidate with the Odum School of Ecology, which is part of the University of Georgia. Josh is currently developing a research proposal that will evaluate the relationships between management typologies and sustainability indicators. His approach is a participatory one that will directly involve producers from the Indiana Beef Alliance, and will be looking at how Holistic Management practitioners make decisions.

Topics of discussion include a description of the general research design, the methodological considerations of holistic research, the importance of farmer participation in research implementation, research as a means for seeking divergent solutions, and the difficulties in funding holistic research.

Holistic Management International (HMI)

HMI Data and Documentation Blog

HMI Twitter Page

HMI on Facebook

Episode #96: Wild Farming

podcast — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:48:23 +0000

Wild Farming is a concept pioneered by conservationist Aldo Leopold and is now taking many forms throughout North America. In this interview I am joined by Joann Baumgartner of the Wild Farm Alliance. The Wild Farm Alliance’s mission is to promote a healthy, viable agriculture that helps protect and restore wild Nature.

Topics of discussion include the origins of wild farming, strategies for promoting and conserving biodiversity on the farm, predator friendly farming, continental wildlife corridors, and the price of food as an obstacle to wild farming.

The Wild Farm Alliance

Episode #95: The Apple Grower

podcast — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:00:12 +0000

In this episode we are joined by Michael Phillips. Michael is an apple farmer, consultant, and writer. He has written several books, and is most well known for his book âThe Apple Grower: A guide for the Organic Orchardist.”

In this interview we discuss the apple as the final frontier of organics, the use of neem oil and kaolin clay to control insect pests and diseases in the orchard, the role of observation in orcharding, and the community orchard as a new model for locally produced fruit.

Herbs and Apples (Michael’s website)

The Apple Grower (via Amazon)

Episode #94: Small-Mart or Anarchy?

podcast — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:28:12 +0000

In this episode of the podcast I play the second part of my interview with Doug Lain of the Diet Soap podcast. The topic of discussion begins with Doug’s reaction to the notion of a Small-Mart Revolution as a strategy for relocalization in the context of collapse. Doug reacts by arguing in favor of Small-Marts as tactic in a larger strategy for social and political transformation.

I conclude the show by reading some listener comments and email. Useful links below:

The Diet Soap Podcast

Gandhian Innovations: Interview on the Next Step Podcast

Mycoremediation and Agrocollapse: Interview on the C-Realm Podcast

Mycoremediation in the Gulf: Article via Agroinnovations Blog

Pick Your Battle: Doug Lain’s Kickstarter Campaign

Episode #93: Urban Foraging

podcast — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 15:57:48 +0000

We are joined by Doug Lain of the Diet Soap Podcast. Doug shares with us the concept and details of his urban foraging project entitled Pick Your Battle. The project is a radical self-help book designed to build community by foraging for fruit, berries, mushrooms, and medicinal and edible plants. Also discussed is the gift economy and psycho-geography.

Mycoremediation and Agrocollapse – Episode #208 of the C-Realm Podcast

Pirate My Film

The Diet Soap Podcast

Pick Your Battle Kickstarter Project

Episode #92: Holistic Grazing Research

podcast — Mon, 24 May 2010 20:19:03 +0000

Today we are joined by Dr. Keith Weber, the GIS Director at Idaho State University. Dr. Weber has done research of ecosystem responses to grazing, animal impact, and total rest. This research provides key insights into the relationship between grazing animals and range health. He has also done extensive research on the use of GIS and remote sensing technologies as tools for monitoring rangelands.

In this interview we discuss the context, methods, and results of the O’Neal grazing research, a multi-year study on the effects of grazing that was conducted just outside of Pocatello, Idaho. We also discuss Dr. Weber’s work with satellite images to measure bare ground.

Episode #91: Transition New Mexico

podcast — Mon, 17 May 2010 12:12:22 +0000

On this episode we are joined by Zaida Amaral. Zaida is a Transition trainer, originally from Brazil but now living in Albuquerque New Mexico. Zaida has traveled extensively and done trainings in numerous locations, including Brazil and the United States, as part of her involvement with the Transition movement.

We discuss the nature of transition, transition in Albuquerque, Peak Oil and denial, personal transformation, the garden as transition, resilience, and bottlenecks to transition.

Episode #90: Holistic Management Down Under

podcast — Mon, 10 May 2010 16:17:54 +0000

In this first episode of the Holistic Management series, we are joined by Dr. Judi Earl of Holistic Management International Australia. Dr. Earl is a researcher who supports HM practitioners in Australia. We discuss the shortcomings of research in whole systems management, the use of animal impact as a tool to heal land, the differences between stocking density and stocking rate, the power of Holistic Planned Grazing, and Judi’s research on grass utilization as an indicator for effective management.

Useful links below:

Holistic Management International

Holistic Management International Australia

Post on HMI’s Data and Documentation Blog

Episode #89: The Fig Man

podcast — Mon, 03 May 2010 18:29:00 +0000

We are joined by Lloyd Kreizter, also known as the fig man. Lloyd has been a fig hobbyist and germplasm collector for many years in the Albuquerque, New Mexico area.

Today, Lloyd joins us to talk about the history and origins of the fig, the adaptability and variability of the fig, and the light and passion the fig inspires in himself and others.

Visit Lloyd’s website at landofenfigment.com

Episode #88: The Seed Container Project

podcast — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:41:35 +0000

We are joined by Douglas Hecker and Martha Skinner of the SEED Container Housing Project of Clemson University. Douglas and Martha are professors of architecture and the lead coordinators for the SEED Project, an initiative to use shipping containers as a mechanism for community and economic development, especially in cases of disaster.

Topics of discussion in this interview include the project’s achievements to date, the economics of modification, the rationale of using shipping containers as housing, the mechanics of modifying the containers, and the role of the container in the community.

10to10.org

Clemson Seed Container Housing Project

Episode #87: The Small-Mart Revolution (Part II)

podcast — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 14:00:09 +0000

In part II of my interview with author Michael Shuman, we discuss strategies for buying local, the prospects and possibilities for relocalizing capital markets, opportunities for local entrepreneurs, strategies for policy making, and how globalization is made stronger by relocalization.

Useful links below:

Smallmart.org

Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE)

Community Food Enterprise

Cutting Edge Capital

Episode #86: The Small-Mart Revolution (Part I)

podcast — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 22:45:05 +0000

We are joined by Michael Shuman, who is the Director for Research and Economic Development with the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies. Michael is also the author of seven books, including the Small-Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses are Beating the Global Competition.

In this episode, we discuss the de-facto economic development policy of most state, county, and municipal governments around the United States, which is designed to favor large, non-local business at the expense of small, localized, import substituting businesses. We discuss how this plays out in policy and practice, and also address research regarding the impact of small business as an economic development engine.

If you are looking to build a solid case for relocalizing the economy in your community, the information in this interview is very important.

Useful links:

BALLE — Business Alliance for Local Living Economies

Small-Mart.org

Episode #85: Red Worm Composting (Part II)

podcast — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 14:00:11 +0000

In Part II of my interview with Bentley Christie of redwormcomposting.com, we discuss worm feeding requirements, innovation and experimentation in vermicomposting, and the benefits of worm castings.

I also conclude with some comments about observations from working in the garden this spring, and talk a bit about next week’s show.

Episode #84: Red Worm Composting (Part I)

podcast — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 14:00:32 +0000

Today we joined by Bentley Christie of the website redwormcomposting.com. Bentley is a red worm composting hobbyist who has experimented with various different worm bins and configurations for red worm composting. The site redwormcomposting.com is designed to share information and experiences about red worm composting with others, and has a very active user community.

In this interview Bentley and I discuss the life cycle, morphology, and biological origins of the red worm. We then go on to talk about developing a simple red worm composting system, and touch upon some of the requirements of red worms. Part I of II.

Episode #83: The Landman Report Card

podcast — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:03:15 +0000

Today we are joined by Christina Xu of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology ExtrACT Group, a co-creator of the Landman Report Card. The Landman Report Card provides tools to learn about landmen and their mineral companies through reading reviews submitted by users. It also allows users to submit their own report cards, contact other users and use the site as their own private diary of interactions with this industry.

In this interview we start by defining a landman, and discuss what options are available to landowners when a landman comes knocking at the door. Also discussed are the environmental effects of gas drilling, the surface restoration requirements, and use of the Landman Report Card as a social organizing strategy.

Useful links:

The Landman Report Card

Split Estate

Gasland

Interview with Josh Fox creator of Gasland (via Democracynow)

Diet Soap Podcast Episode #46

Episode #82: Food Justice

podcast — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 21:49:43 +0000

We are joined by Nikki Henderson, the Executive Director of People’s Grocery. People’s Grocery is a community-based organization in West Oakland that develops creative solutions to the health problems in the community that stem from a lack of access to and knowledge about healthy, fresh foods People’s Grocery can be found online at peoplesgrocery.org.

Topics of discussion include the history of People’s Grocery, the concept of a mobile market, the importance of urban gardens, the profitability of selling fresh produce in urban areas, the “elitism” of local food, and of course, food justice.

Episode #81: The Chewonki Foundation

podcast — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:55:43 +0000

On this episode of the Agroinnovations Podcast I am joined by Margaret Youngs Coleman, who is the farm manager at the Chewonki Foundation, an outdoor classroom and learning institution dedicated to providing young people with educational experiences in the outdoors.

Margaret and I discuss the location and landscape of the Chewonki farm, its role in education, and the importance of wilderness and farm experiences for young people in today’s society.

Useful links:

The Chewonki Foundation

Diet Soap Podcast Episode #46: Radical Permaculture

The Humanure Handbook

FAO Information Note: Agriculture, Food Security, and Climate Change in Post-Copenhagen Processes

Episode #80: The National Renewable Ammonia Architecture

podcast — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 14:00:57 +0000

In this episode of the podcast I am joined by Neal Rauhauser, a blogger and researcher whose work can be found on the website strandedwind.org. Neal is also the author of the National Renewable Ammonia Architecture, a 6,500 word background paper that covers the history of human fertilizer production.

In this interview Neal and I discuss the concept of stranded wind, the past, current, and future status of ammonia as a fertilizer, and the potential to produce ammonia renewably using hydroelectric. Neal brings us up to speed on a proposal to reinvigorate local economies where hydroelectric facilities already exist through ammonia/grain/ethanol/greenhouse horticulture production.

Useful links below:

Strandedwind

The National Renewable Ammonia Architecture

The Ammonia Fuel Network

Episode #79: The Black Soldier Fly (Part II)

podcast — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:00:00 +0000

In the second part of my interview with Jerry from blacksoldierflyblog.com, we discuss use of BSF for decomposing manures, including human manure, the quality and volume of compost produced, fly larva as the primary product of BSF composting, biological racism against the Black Soldier Fly, and BSF with California Red Worms.

I also read some listener email and comments. Useful links below:

Black Soldier Fly Blog

BioPod and Black Soldier Fly Community Forum

Episode #78: The Black Soldier Fly (Part I)

podcast — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 14:00:51 +0000

The Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia ilucens) has many remarkable characteristics that make it useful to human beings. In this episode, I am joined by Jerry of blacksoldierflyblog.com. Jerry and I discuss the lifecycle, morphological characteristics, and population dynamics of the Black Soldier Fly. We also discuss strategies for attracting and managing a healthy colony. This is Part I in a two part series.

Useful links below:

Blacksoldierfly Blog

Phoenix Worms (via Google)

Wikipedia article

Purchase a Biopod

Episode #77: CREAR with Mark Feedman

podcast — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:51:21 +0000

Mark Feedman is the founder of CREAR, the Regional Center for the Study of Rural Alternatives, a small agricultural school located in the northern mountains of the Dominican Republic, near the Haitian border. Feedman has been an tireless advocate of sustainable agriculture for 40 years, and in this interview he recounts his struggle to create an educational center in the remote forests of Hispaniola. Topics include rural education, the future of Haiti, and the subject of hope.

CREAR (via Agroinnovations)

CREAR Slide Show (via Agroinnovations)

FAO Soils Bulletin 60

Live Learning Visits CREAR

Dominican Community Gardens: CREAR

Episode #76: Appropedia Revisited

podcast — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 23:58:29 +0000

In this episode of the podcast, I speak with Chris Watkins of Appropedia.org. We start off by reviewing some of the highlights of Chris’ 18 month trip around the globe meeting with other Open Source Appropriate Technology (OSAT) pioneers, and then we move on to the discuss the utility of Appropedia, its growth, its role in connecting and building communities, differences between OSAT and Free Software, and how to get more people involved in OSAT.

Episode #75: A 21st Century Anarchist with Doug Lain

podcast — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:10:26 +0000

Doug Lain is a fiction author and the anarchist podcaster behind the Diet Soap Podcast. In this interview, Doug and I discuss the intellectual roots of socialist anarchism, Paris in 1968, Silent Revolution, and Psycho-Geography. Useful links below:

The Diet Soap Podcast

Elinor Ostrom – Winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics

WMRW 95.1 FM

Red House Art Radio

Psychogeography on Wikipedia

Flickr Photo Map of a Bike Ride

Fiction By Douglas Lain

Episode #74: The Edible Acre Project

podcast — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 17:48:20 +0000

In this episode we continue with the theme of school gardens and farms. I am joined by Debbie Hillman of the Edible Acre Project, a project in a suburb just outside of Chicago Illinois. Debbie discusses the origins and implementation of the project, the role of a the farm/garden in education, and practical strategies for those looking to develop similar projects in their communities.

Resource links below:

Peace Corps Connect: A networking site that may help you find RPCVs in your community

World Wise Schools: Bring the Peace Corps to your local school

Episode #73: Felder School Farm

podcast — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 23:00:14 +0000

This episode we welcome Ragan Sutterfeld of Felder School Farm, a school farm located in Little Rock Arkansas that is pioneering the way to get agriculture into our country’s schools. Topics of discussion include barriers to adoption, the agricultural calendar vs. the educational calendar, and agriculture in education.

This idea can be summarized in five words: Turn the Schools into Farms. Now, let’s go out there and make it a reality.

Episode #72: Cop15 and Earth Democracy

podcast — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 17:47:53 +0000

In this episode of the podcast, I discuss the outcomes of the Cop15 summit in Copenhagen, and put this in the context of a local, grassroots movement to rebuild our society. Topics of discussion include insulating curtains, global warming as a conspiracy, the crisis of civilization, and much more.

Links below:

Warm Window Insulating Curtains

Diet Soap Podcast #36: The Mechanism that I Am (a mystic’s view that people are asleep)

DemocracyNow!

Copenhagen negotiators bicker and filibuster while the biosphere burns (by George Monbiot)

Episode #71: The Story of a Bolivian Farmer

podcast — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:37:59 +0000

This video interview/photo montage is a talk between myself and Moises Jimenez. Topics of discussion include an introduction to Bolivian agriculture, the life of a Bolivian farmer, the importance of crop rotation and agricultural biodiversity. Part I of II.

This video views best in full screen mode.

Episode #70: The (a)Politics of Transition Culture (Part II)

podcast — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:17:59 +0000

In this second part of a two part interview, Rob Hopkins and I discuss the apolitical nature of transition culture, the construction of parallel systems, and the potential for confrontation with existing power structures. Also discussed is the feasibility of permaculture in a suburban environment.

Useful Links Below

Transitionculture.org

Ralph Nader’s Flight of Fancy

Slow Money Alliance

Episode #69: Transition Culture with Rob Hopkins

acoma — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:46:30 +0000

In this episode, I am joined by Rob Hopkins of transitionculture.org. We discuss the origins of the transition movement and its practical application as a grassroots community organizing strategy. Rob shares with us some potential pitfalls, and we also discuss the differences between collapse and energy descent. This is part I in a two part interview.

For more on Charles Eisenstein, please see http://www.ascentofhumanity.com/

Episode #68: A Forest Journey with John Perlin

podcast — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:16:24 +0000

In this episode of the podcast, I welcome back the topic of Peak Wood and John Perlin’s excellent book “A Forest Journey”. This time John Perlin himself joins me to talk about his book and its many facets. Topics of discussion include the role of wood in civilization, our perceptions of forests through history, the relationship between forests and language, and the parallels between Peak Wood and Peak Oil.

Useful links included below:

John Perlin’s Website

Purchase the book on Amazon.com

Marooned in the Hard Light: An Essay by Neil Kramer

Agroinnovations Episode #66: Peak Wood

Episode #67: Reinventing Education — Permaculture and Transformational Learning

acoma — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:40:31 +0000

In this episode, I am joined by Nelson Lebo, organic farmer, teacher, and Ph.D. candidate in education. Nelson and I discuss today’s crisis in education, and we reframe the debate towards one where permaculture becomes the lynch pin in a strategy to promote personal transformation through hands-on science education. Issues like Peak Oil and climate change are also addressed.

Some useful links are below.

Futurescenarios.org: David Holmgren’s excellent work on the twin crisis of climate change and Peak Oil

The End of Suburbia: You Tube version of the film mentioned by Nelson in the podcast

Episode #66: Peak Wood with Frank Aragona

podcast — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:06:40 +0000

In this episode, I start by giving a shout-out to Duncan and Jim over at the Kunstlercast, and also by voicing support for KMO’s C-Realm. I give listeners a brief pitch for a new Permaculture-Albuquerque Meetup group facilitated by Agroinnovations.

I then go into a discussion of John Perlin’s book “A Forest Journey: The Role of Wood in the Development of Civilization.” Perlin’s book illustrates nicely the concept of “Peak Wood”, a reality long before Peak Oil was even a possibility. Peak Wood is illustrated in different historical and imperial contexts, including Rome, England, and North America. Peak Wood and Peak Oil are sure to interact in the near future, and we must reassess our relationship to wood and forests so that we can manage our forest resources in a sane and reasonable manner.

Links:

Kunstler Cast: Food in World Made by Hand

Permaculture-Albuquerque Meetup Group

Episode #65: The Zambian Soap Company with Andre Houssney

acoma — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 16:19:45 +0000

In this episode, I am joined by Andre Houssney of the Zambian Soap Company. Andre gives us a cultural and historical context of Zambia, discusses the process of developing a soap company in the region, talks us through the production process of organic soap, comments on Fair Trade, and addresses the tension between buying local and supporting access to markets for Zambian producers.

Links:

The Zambian Soap Company: http://www.zambiansoap.com/

The Fair Trade Federation: http://www.fairtradefederation.org/

Episode #64: The Coalition of Imokalee Workers (Part II)

acoma — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 19:45:58 +0000

In this second of a two part series, we conclude an interview with Gerardo Reyes of the Coalition of Imokalee Workers. Gerarado discusses cases of slavery in the United States, the need to change our mentality, the campaign to improve the rights of agricultural laborers, and the potential linkages between the worker’s rights movement and the local food movement.

Visit the website of the Coalition of Imokalee Workers at http://www.ciw-online.org/

Episode #63: The Coalition of Imokalee Workers with Gerardo Reyes

podcast — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 19:55:17 +0000

In this episode, I speak with Gerardo Reyes of the Coalition of Imokalee Workers. Gerardo and I discuss the history of agricultural labor in the United States, the current state of workers in Florida and elsewhere, and Gerardo gives us a breakdown of a typical day for an agricultural field worker in the United States.

You can find the Coalition of Imokalee Workers online at http://www.ciw-online.org/

Here is a link to the Agroinnovations twitter page. Follow us, retweet, spread the word! http://twitter.com/agroinnovations

Episode #62: Whole Systems Design with Ben Falk

acoma — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 17:32:06 +0000

In this interview with Ben Falk of Whole Systems design we discuss permaculture design, plant guilds, permaculture as an animal rights strategy, nitrogen use efficiency, energy descent, and the use of forests as a an energy source.

Links below:

Whole Systems Design

Future Scenarios

The Omnivore’s Delusion (article by Blake Hurst)

Death on a Factory Farm (HBO Documentary)

Episode #61: The Essence of Flowers with Marisha Auerbach

podcast — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:15:13 +0000

For Episode #61 of the podcast, I speak with Marisha Auerbach of Herb’n Wisdom.com. Marisha is a permaculture designer living in the Pacific Northwest. We speak about her work with edible flowers and flower essences, the importance of connections in nature and community, and the role of sustainably managed forests.

Also, please take the time to visit Red House Art Radio.

Episode #60: CSA as a Social Service with Woody Woodruff

podcast — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:53:51 +0000

In this episode, I am joined by Woody Woodruff, founder and director of Red Wiggler CSA Farm. Community Supported Agriculture is now a well known fixture in many places across America. But CSA has begun to transform our social and economic world in many ways. This is exemplified by the work that Red Wiggler Farm is doing to provide disabled adults with meaningful employment. Listen and learn.

Agrotherapy for the Disabled (on Agroblogger.com)

I will not be posting forum threads on Global Swadeshi, as participation has been sparse.

Episode #59: A Snapshot of Chinese Agriculture with Mike Mulvaney

podcast — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 01:33:26 +0000

Being in a foreign land for a short time is an excellent way to get a rapid fire snapshot of the country and its inhabitants. In this episode I am joined by Mike Mulvaney, who in May of 2009 paid a one month visit to China on a study of plant genetics. Mulvaney’s observations and musings about Chinese agriculture offer a momentary glimpse into the Far Eastern agricultural society in the early 21st century.

Modified Relay Intercropping

Red House Art Radio

Global Swadeshi Thread for this episode

Episode #58: Gandhian Economics with George Mokray (Part II)

podcast — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:15:29 +0000

In this episode I conclude my interview with George Mokray about Gandhian economics. Topics of discussion include Gandhi’s view of public policy, Gandhian economics as an alternative to modern social orders, how Gandhi would view the Internet, and Gandhi as a source of inspiration in contemporary society.

Visit Redhouse Art Radio

Alternative Radio Interview with Vandana Shiva

Global Swadeshi Thread for this episode

Episode #57: Gandhian Economics with George Mokray (Part I)

podcast — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:23:24 +0000

For episode #57 I am joined by George Mokray, who has read and written extensively about Gandhian economics. Gandhi is often remembered for his civil disobedience and non-violent approach to ending British imperialism, but his economic thought and philosophy is perhaps more fundamental to his strategy for personal and communal liberation. More relevant than ever before, Gandhi’s thinking must be studied and internalized by those who wish to promote real change in our society.

Global Swadeshi Forum Thread

Visit George’s websites via the links below:

http://solarray.blogspot.com/

http://gmoke.dailykos.com

Episode #56: The Soil Carbon Coalition with Peter Donovan

podcast — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:24:26 +0000

In this interview, Peter Donovan and I talk about the difference between divergent and convergent solutions, the utility of policy to mitigate climate change, and the concept of a soil carbon sequestration competition as a means of shifting our strategy.

Visit Peter’s website at managingwholes.com, or visit the Soil Carbon Coalition.

Continue the discussion at Global Swadeshi forum.

Episode #55: The Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides with Amy Rosenthal

podcast — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:49:32 +0000

Amy Rosenthal, of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), talks about the Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides. How it was created, the general break-down of how it can be used, what it covers and what it doesn’t and why, and we reflect about making food decisions to minimize exposure to harmful pesticide residues.

The list can be found at foodnews.org.

Visit and discuss at the Global Swadeshi Network.

Episode #54: Deconstructing Dinner with Jon Steinman

podcast — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:08:24 +0000

We speak with Jon Steinman of the Deconstructing Dinner radio show, a show created to dispense and discuss current food issues. Topics of discussion include the creation of the Deconstructing Dinner show, the nature of local food community organizing, and the urgency of building fossil-fuel free local food systems.

Global Swadeshi Discussion for Episode #54

Episode #53: The Walden Effect with Mark Hamilton

podcast — Mon, 25 May 2009 16:48:04 +0000

For episode #53 I am I am joined by Mark Hamilton of waldeneffect.org. Mark is a full-time farmer in Appalachia. Topics of discussion include his invention the Avian Aqua Miser, appropriate technology, micro-hydro power, and the local farmer’s market. I conclude with some listener mail regarding discussions of energy use in agriculture. Links below.

Global Swadeshi: Agroinnovations Podcast #53. Another link to the forum at Global Swadeshi. Here you can discuss issues and concepts related to this episode of the podcast.

Waldeneffect.org: Mark Hamilton’s blog, also you can find the Avian Aqua Miser on through this page.

Episode #52: LEISA Network with Frank van Schoubroeck (Part II)

podcast — Mon, 18 May 2009 18:30:08 +0000

I conclude my interview with Frank van Schoubroeck of LEISA Network. We discuss the feasibility, policy frameworks, and demographics of innovation in Third World agriculture and conclude by discussing concrete actions towards food security that anybody, anywhere can begin to take. Also, have a look at LEISA’s blog, full of interesting information.

In the second half of the podcast I discuss Michael Pollan’s book the “Omnivore’s Dillema” and the energy and fossil fuel implications of industrial agriculture. I conclude with some advice on how to reduce the energy footprint on your kitchen table. Links for this episode below:

Global Swadeshi: Agroinnovations Podcast Episode #52. As promised at the outset. Please participate in the discussion by visiting the Global Swadeshi network and contributing to this and other threads.

LEISA Network: A great source of information, and where to go to sign up for the magazine

LEISA’s Blog: More great information, regularly updated.

Eating Fossil Fuels, by Dale Allen Pfeiffer: Article referenced in the food-energy talk in the second half of the podcast.

Food, Land, Population and the U.S. Economy, by David Pimentel and Mario Giampietro: Another referenced article discussing the relationship between food and energy.

Episode #51: LEISA Network with Frank van Schoubroeck (Part I)

podcast — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:38:04 +0000

In this episode I am joined by Frank van Schoubroeck of the Center for Information on Low External Inputs and Sustainable Agriculture (LEISA). Frank and I discuss the Center and it’s important magazine work, innovative farmers and their struggles, and the role of global development institutions in fostering innovation in agriculture.

This is part one of a two part interview.

Episode #50: Carbon Offsets with Dale Enerson

podcast — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 21:10:43 +0000

Dale Enerson is the Director of the National Carbon Credit program for the National Farmers Union. In this interview, Dale and I talk about agricultural carbon offsets, what they are and how they work, the dynamics of the carbon market, and the potential of agricultural offsets to mitigate the effects of global climate change.

Visit the NDFU Carbon Credit website to access the resources Dale mentioned in the podcast.

Episode #49: The C-Realm with KMO

podcast — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:48:11 +0000

For Episode #49, I interview KMO of the C-Realm podcast. Another creative collaboration, KMO and I are releasing concurrent episodes where we interview one another on our respective podcasts. Topics for this episode include the origins and themes of the C-Realm, Peak Oil, the relationship between food and shifting consciousness, and many others.

I will be appearing on episode #150 of the C-Realm podcast. Click on the link and have a listen.

Episode #48: Clay Pot Irrigation with Larry Sallee

podcast — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:51:30 +0000

Larry Sallee, from Seed and Light International, is an expert in olla, or clay pot, irrigation. In this episode of the podcast, Larry and I have a detailed conversation about olla irrgation, from its origins to its uses in today’s garden.

If you are interested in picking up one of these ollas, then head on over to the East Central Ministries website, where you can get high quality irrigation ollas all while helping a great cause.

Episode #47: Podcast Update with Frank Aragona

podcast — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 21:00:56 +0000

In this episode I give users a full update on all news related to the podcast. Topics of discussion are our new website, the changing nature of the Agroinnovations podcast, the new official forum of the podcast, our new podcast license, the work of collaborators on the podcast, and information on our forthcoming episode.

Also, as promised here is a link to East Central Ministries, a great organization doing great work. Go get yourself a clay pot olla for your garden!

Episode #46: Aquaponics with Doug Burdette (Part II)

podcast — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 19:11:35 +0000

In the second part of my interview with Doug Burdette we talk about aquaculture as a community development strategy, the mechanics of aquaponics, and I read a listener’s comments.

Episode #45: Aquaculture with Doug Burdette (Part I)

podcast — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 17:41:47 +0000

Doug Burdette has over 40 years of experience in the area of aquaculture. He has pioneered a number of important technologies in this area. In this interview, we speak with Doug about the history of aquaculture, his aquaculture innovations, and the biological efficiency of aquaculture systems. Visit Doug’s website to learn more.

Part II is next week, where we delve into topics of micro-scale aquaculture and aquaponics. Stay tuned.

Episode #44: Son of a Farmer

podcast — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:12:02 +0000

In this interview I speak with Eric Herm, who blogs at Sonofafarmer.com. Eric is a fourth generation farmer in West Texas who shares his personal story and his perspectives on soil health, Peak Oil, sustainability, and economic collapse. If you want to hear the perspective of farmers who are in the trenches and on the frontlines of the fight for sustainable food production, then listen to this episode.

Episode #43: From Global Commodities to Local Food

podcast — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 16:53:48 +0000

In this episode, I interview Ken Meter of the Crossroads Resource Center. We discuss the state of rural America and the farm economy, and the potential and path from global commodities to local food. Listen, enjoy, and participate.

Episode #42: Permaculture in the Savanna

podcast — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 17:36:14 +0000

In this first of (hopefully) many collaborative episodes of the podcast, fellow Agrocaster Mike Moon interviews permaculturalist Mark Shepard about his strategies for developing a permaculture on the natural model of transitional upper mid-West savanna ecosystems. Fruits, nuts, and birds abound.

Episode #41: The Black Death

podcast — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 19:31:12 +0000

In this episode, I interview Dr. John Aberth of the University of Vermont, a specialist in the Black Death of Medieval Europe. This is a story of disease, death, and rebirth; a story of resilience in the face of the unknown, and crisis and violence. We stand to learn much from this tragic event. This episode runs over 60 minutes, longer than most, but worth it. Listen and be edified.

Episode #40: Reprap with Adrian Bowyer Part II

podcast — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:21:40 +0000

Part II of my interview with Adrian Bowyer deals with two aspects of the reprap project: the global economic implications of distributed fabrication and practical tips for getting Reprap out there in as many hands as possible. Other issues, like economic collapse and Peak Oil are also addressed.

Episode #39: Reprap with Adrian Bowyer Part I

podcast — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 19:21:24 +0000

In this episode of the podcast I interview Andrew Bowyer of the Reprap Machine Project. Reprap is a self-replicating prototyper with profound implications for the Open Source Appropriate Technology Movement. Listen and learn.

Episode #38: Local Currencies and the Berkshare Program

podcast — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 08:28:33 +0000

Local currencies are a key pillar to the sustainability movement. In this episode of the podcast, I interview Sarah Hearn of the The E.F. Schumacher Society. We talk about the Berkshares program that has been developing in the community of Berkshire, Massachusetts since 2006. This is a fascinating topic that is sure to spark ideas and other projects around the country. To learn more about Berkshares, please visit www.berkshares.org.

Episode #37: No Till Agriculture with Mike Mulvaney

podcast — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 06:09:54 +0000

The podcast is back, and in this episode we speak with Mike Mulvaney of Auburn University about no till agriculture and conservation tillage. Also, I reframe the focus of the podcast and give people a taste of what’s to come. Listen, enjoy, and send us your feedback.

Podcast Update Fall 2008

podcast — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 09:41:59 +0000

It has been over a month since our last podcast. If you are a frequent listener, do not despair, there is much more to come. Right now, at Agricultural Innovations, we are in a phase of consolidation, and the podcast will definitely reflect that.

I plan to make some modifications to the podcast itself, and make it more dynamic and interactive with other things that are going on on the web, try and get the word out, and make it an even more powerful tool for networking and information sharing. So, if anybody has any suggestions on how to dynamize the podcast, make it more participative, and in the end develop a bigger audience, I’m all ears. I do have some ideas of my own in this regard. And, I I hope to be able to produce more frequent shows, which is a great start. Look forward to feedback.

Episode #36: The Silvery Minnow

podcast — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:26:45 +0000

The Silvery Minnow is a species that has generated controversy and emotion over the years. Its status as an endangered species highlights the importance of knowledge and democratic decision making at a local level to preserve our natural resources.

In this interview, I speak with Michael Porter, Fishery Biologist with the US Army Corps of Engineers. He tells us about the minnow’s life cycle, its importance to a healthy ecosystem, and how this relates back to farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley.

Episode #35: Agriculture and Civilization

podcast — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 21:07:16 +0000

In this episode, I interview Richard Manning, essayist and author of a number of books about agriculture and civilization. In this interview, we talk with Richard about the beginning of agriculture, the role annual grasses have played in shaping agriculture and civilization, the importance of grasslands, and the key to finding individual food niches within our local food sheds. This one is not to be missed.

Episode #34: Holistic Management with Allan Savory (Part II)

podcast — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 03:48:31 +0000

In part two of our interview with Allan Savory, we discuss the process of developing a holisticgoal, the role of monitoring in Holistic Management, and the scientific evidence that supports the claims of Holistic management.

I conclude with a brief summary of the work Agricultural Innovations is doing with Holistic Management International, and some other general comments about the podcast.

Episode #33: Holistic Management with Allan Savory (Part I)

podcast — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 21:46:39 +0000

Allan Savory is the pioneer of Holistic Management, a decision making framework that has had exceptional success stories in the areas of range and livestock management. In this interview, Allan lays out the basics of Holistic Management, how he discovered it, and how it works. This is part one of a two part series.

Allan is also the founder of Holistic Management International. Please visit their website to learn more.

Episode #32: Ferrocemento en el Altiplano Boliviano

podcast — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 03:19:18 +0000

En el Altiplano de Bolivia, las condiciones son difíciles, y la pobreza extrema. En este programa, hablamos con Arq. Greby Caillavy, quien es encargado de un proyecto de Ferrocemento en el Altiplano Boliviano. El Arq. Caillavy habla de varios aspectos en la implementación del proyecto, tocando temas técnicas y socioeconomicas en el proceso.

Agradecemos a TERRA Resource Development International por su apoyo en la implementación del proyecto.

Episode #31: Colony Collapse Disorder in 2008

podcast — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 06:53:56 +0000

In this episode of the Agroinnovations Podcast I speak with Maryann Frazier, Senior Extension Associate at Pennsylvania State University and an expert on colony collapse disorder (CCD) in bees. This alarming phenomenon has captured the attention of media throughout the country.

In this interview, Maryann takes us through the brief but intense history of CCD, and gives us a concise interpretation of where the scientific evidence to date is leading us. Her conclusions show us that bees themselves are forcing us to reexamine our relationships with agriculture, nature, and land.

Episode #30: Open Farm Tech with Marcin Jakubowski

podcast — Fri, 23 May 2008 03:56:12 +0000

Marcin Jakubowski is one of the premier pioneers of open source appropriate technology and agricultural innovation. Guided by Gandhi’s principles of swadeshi, Marcin has made great strides in moving towards community-based development and local autonomy. One of his first great innovations is an open source compressed earth block press, which he discusses at length in this podcast.

Listen to this podcast to learn about his ideas and innovations, and visit his blog to follow developments on his farm as they occur.

Episode #29: Apicultura en Ayopaya Bolivia

podcast — Thu, 15 May 2008 06:12:39 +0000

Hoy conversamos con Arq. Greby Caillavy sobre el proyecto de apicultura que Agroinnovaciones Bolivia esta realizando en la Provincia de Ayopaya, en Cochabamba Bolivia. Arq. Greby habla sobre los estudios que Agroinnovaciones ha realizado, la relacion que se pretende establecer entre el bosque y la abeja, y las estrategias que nuestra empresa esta implementando para lograr un buen desarrollo de la cadena apicola.

Agradecemos a CIOEC Bolivia, al proyecto Ecobona, y especialmente a Intercooperation por su apoyo en la ejecucion de este proyecto.

Episode #28: Conserving the World’s Languages with Luisa Maffi (Part II)

podcast — Thu, 08 May 2008 23:06:59 +0000

In this second part of our interview with Luisa Maffi, we talk about the process of language shift and the activities that indigenous communities around the world are engaging in to preserve and recover their languages.

As with so many other things, the future of the world’s languages will be determined by our values: the values of people in majority linguistic groups, the values of people whose linguistic heritage is endangered, and the values of everyone who falls somewhere in between.

Get involved! Visit www.terralingua.org

Episode #27: Biocultural and Linguistic Diversity with Luisa Maffi

podcast — Thu, 01 May 2008 07:00:33 +0000

Luisa Maffi is the Director of Terralingua, an organization dedicated to the conservation of the world’s biocultural and linguistic diversity. In Part I of this two part series, Dr. Maffi explains the goals and purpose of Terralingua, and then paints a picture of crisis and extinction for our world’s languages. The relationships between language, culture, and biodiversity are profound and poorly understood, and Dr. Maffi’s experience and education come to the fore in this interview.

Stay tuned for Part II, coming in about a week’s time. And yes, it is good to be back podcasting once again.

iTunes Fixed…and Hiatus coming to an end.

podcast — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 19:43:45 +0000

Hello loyal listeners. I know by emails and comments that some of you have been anxious for the podcast to start casting again. Well, I should have some more podcasts here for you, at the latest, by the end of April. From there, expect the stream to keep coming, as I have missed podcasting and am anxious to get back to it.

Now, for anyone who has wanted to get the Agroinnovations Podcast on iTunes, but noticed long ago that the feed was broken, the wait is over. After quite a bit of tweaking and open source collaboration, I have finally gotten the iTunes feed back to form. So, if you have any show suggestions that you would like to hear, let me know. Peace.

Podcast On Hiatus

podcast — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 20:26:25 +0000

I am currently in Bolivia working on several projects. Unfortunately, I have neither the time, the equipment, or the bandwidth required to do justice to the podcast. I haven’t run out of ideas, far from it. In the future, I am planning on a series that deals with the dawn of agriculture. So be patient, it will be worth the wait.

Thanks to all the people who listen to the podcast and have sent encouraging emails and comments. This might be a good time to tell some friends, family, and colleagues about this podcast. Let them get caught up on some previous shows while we take a break. In the meantime, you might want to check out Agroblogger for some insights into agricultural innovation. Happy Holidays.

Episode #26: Appropedia Roundtable Part II

podcast — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 21:30:03 +0000

This is part two of the Appropedia Roundtable with Lonny Grafman and Curt Beckmann. In this podcast, we discuss Open Source AT (OSAT) in a historical context, and look at some of the tensions and areas where Appropedia must improve if it is to truly have a lasting impact. Thanks for listening.

Episode #25: Appropedia Roundtable Part I

podcast — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 04:13:13 +0000

There’s a lot of synergy going in the open source appropriate technology (OSAT) world, and this podcast is a perfect example of that. On the same day that Agroinnovations posted a call for collaborators on the appropedia website, I spoke with Lonny Grafman and Curt Beckmann, founder and system administrator, respectively, of this premier open source AT wiki and online community. If you’re interested in OSAT, then THIS is the podcast to listen to. If you’ve never heard of OSAT, then listen and learn.

Stay tuned for part two, and also an upcoming podcast on ferrocement in Spanish.

Episode #24: Open Source AT and The Full Belly Project

podcast — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 23:38:04 +0000

The Full Belly Project has spent the last several years designing and deploying a simple and cost effective peanut sheller for use in developing countries. They are one of the first organizations to explicitly endorse and apply an Open Source model to appropriate technology.

In this interview, Jeff Rose tells us the history of the project, how it functions, and the service based model that is now emerging from applying Open Source to AT. I also read some listener’s comments. So listen and enjoy.

Episode #23: Appropriate Technology with Professor Anil Gupta

podcast — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 02:36:00 +0000

In this episode, we speak with Professor Anil Gupta of the Honey Bee Network. Professor Gupta is a true visionary in the field of appropriate technology and he has dedicated his life to furthering the cause of rural innovators and their inventions.

According to Dr. Gupta, rural innovators are solving problems at such a low cost, that we can no longer afford to ignore their hard work and creativity. His approach presents us with a new model of rural and market development that must be implemented if we are to overcome the obstacles that now face our civilization.

Episode #22: Microintensive Hoophouse Gardening with Chuck O’Herron-Alex

podcast — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 23:56:51 +0000

Chuck O’Herron-Alex has designed a highly innovative system for gardening. His design combines microintensive gardens, hoophouses, and raised bed agriculture to create a system that is flexible, productive, and low-cost. Listen to the podcast to learn more, and also visit his website at www.veggiegrower.net.

Episode #21: The Carbon Footprint of Food with Jack Mizner

podcast — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 03:36:48 +0000

This second part in a three part series on food, organized by Kathy Issacson and Phil Pohl, features Jack Mizner of Sandia National Labs. Jack talks us through the idea of carbon footprints and ecological footprints, and uses this concept to show us the differing carbon footprints of two very different meals.

Episode #20: The World According to Mollison (Permaculture Part II)

podcast — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 00:38:04 +0000

In the second part of our interview with Bill Mollison, Bill’s humor, wisdom, and philosophy are on display as he opines about Peak Oil, global warming, and the future of our planet. This one is not to be missed.

Episode #19: Permaculture Design with Bill Mollison (Part I)

podcast — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 02:18:01 +0000

Last month I had the privilege to speak with Bill Mollison, visionary and creator of the revolutionary and true reality-based design science of permaculture. The interview is published here, so that those of you who are new to permaculture can discover the history of its founder and the nature of the concepts embodied in his philosophy.

This is the first part in a two part series. Please listen and enjoy, and come back soon to hear part two.

Episode #18: Mobile Pyrolysis with Agri-Therm’s Ron Golden

podcast — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 01:01:04 +0000

Ron Golden gives us the break down on Agri-therm’s mobile pyrolysis technology. Pyrolysis is an ancient technology that is being upgraded for the distributed energy economy of the 21st century, and Agri-therm is on the front lines of this transformation. From bio-oil to char, fast pyrolysis produces a number of outputs, all the while being carbon neutral and opening a whole new range of possibilities in agricultural residue management.

You can visit Agritherm’s website to learn more. Thanks for listening, and enjoy the show.

Episode #17: Mycelium Running, Paul Stamets Part II

podcast — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 00:59:27 +0000

In this second part of a two part series, Paul Stamets tells us how mushrooms can indeed help save the world. From remedies for small pox, to revolutionary biological pesticides, and the remediation of toxic wastes, Paul articulates a vision built on the five pillars of mycorestoration.

As Paul describes it, his newest book, Mycelium Running, will be a gateway for other pioneers, and will lead to many important developments in the future. You can purchase Mycelium running and other books at Fungi Perfecti (www.fungi.com). Also, listen to the NPR broadcast Paul refers to in the interview. Thanks Paul, for showing us the way.

Episode #16: An Introduction to Mushroom Mycelium with Paul Stamets (Part I)

podcast — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 03:07:48 +0000

Mycologist and visionary Paul Stamets joins us for an hour long interview, presented here in two parts, about mushroom mycelium and how we can use mycelium to help heal the damage that humans are causing to the Earth.

In Part I, Paul takes us on a journey through time, explaining the evolution and role of the mycelial mass in Earth’s history; he then tells us of the symbiosis between humans and mushrooms.

Mushrooms and their mycelium are one of the critical and forgotten components in our ecosystems, and Paul is helping us reinvent our thinking about how we can direct and manage this critical component in so many ways. Enjoy, and stay tuned for Part II.

Episode #15: The Politics of Food

podcast — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 03:00:29 +0000

Today we have the pleasure to begin with the broadcast of a series of shows that will be ongoing over the course of the summer. A group of dedicated citizens has gotten together to create a set of three seminars about food, and we were asked to participate by turning the series into a podcast.

So here is the first installment in a three-part series, featuring Phil Pohl of Sandia National Labs and Greg Gould, self-described foodologist.

To learn more about the speakers, have a look at their websites. Phil Pohl runs Sandia’s Food, Water and Energy program, and Greg has recently been host of the Foodology Show.

Also, special thanks to Kathy Isaacson of Strategic Engagement LLC for organizing these seminars.

Episode #14: Fair Trade, Greenlagirl and The Starbucks Challenge

podcast — Tue, 15 May 2007 04:20:15 +0000

Today as a final installment of the Fair Trade series, I speak with Siel from the popular Fair Trade blog greenlagirl.com. Siel tells us about the Starbucks Challenge and how it got started, and she also gives us some insights on Fair Trade from the consumer’s perspective.

Have a listen and please enjoy.

Episode #13: Fair Trade Roundtable

podcast — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 03:07:36 +0000

Today we delve deeper into the Fair Trade debate, as we host a roundtable discussion with Matt Early of Just Coffee and Demian Luper of Transfair USA. The debate centers around the certification standards and system, and both of our guests address the issue of “greenwashing” from very different perspectives.

This is our first multiple person interview, and adding another voice adds technical complexity at the same time that it adds content richness. Unfortunately, the sound quality isn’t as high as I’d like it to be. Still, the interview is excellent, and I encourage you to listen.

Episode #12: Fair Trade According to the “Answer Man”

podcast — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 01:10:21 +0000

Today we speak with Rodney North, aka the “Answer Man” of Equal Exchange, a mission-based Fair Trade cooperative dedicated to social justice and an improved bottom line for the impoverished farmers of the world.

Rodney gives us the low down on Fair, “greenwashing”, the Fair Trade supply chain, and the debate around moving beyond Fair Trade. This is an excellent and provocative interview for both novices and experts alike, so please have a listen.

Episode #11: An Introduction to Coffee with Patrick Stewart

podcast — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:39:03 +0000

After a bit of an absence, we are back with some more great content. Today we begin a new series of shows about Fair Trade, with a focus on the coffee industry.

For our first interview, we speak with Patrick Stewart, Director of Marketing for Greenwell Farms/Kona Coffee. Pat gets us up to speed on why Kona is special, how the coffee supply chain functions, and how Fair Trade coffee relates to the coffee market in general. We also talk about the future direction of the industry.

Thanks for joining us, and we plan to have several more great shows about coffee and Fair Trade in coming weeks.

Episode #10: Sharing the Harvest with Elizabeth Henderson

podcast — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 22:55:34 +0000

In our last CSA focused interview, I spoke with Elizabeth Henderson, organic farmer, CSA pioneer, and author of the book Sharing the Harvest. In researching her book, Elizabeth has visited scores of CSAs across the country. She shares some their stories with us, showing us how CSA has become a catalyst for community development and revival in both rural and urban settings.

Thank you Elizabeth Henderson, Monte Skarsgard, John Peterson, and Elizabeth Keen for introducing us to CSA. Next we’ll be focusing on Fair Trade.

Episode #9: Chirimoya II Entrevista con Ing. German Zambrana

podcast — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:19:22 +0000

En parte dos de nuestros programas de chirimoya, hablamos con Ing. German Zambrana, encargado del desarollo de un proyecto de chirimoya en el municipio de Mizque, Bolivia. German nos explica los resultados de los estudios participativos que realizaron en el campo, y también las estrategias que propone para lograr una producción sostenible y rentable en Mizque.

Gracias por su participación. dejarnos sus comentarios y sugerencias aquí.

Episode #8: Monte Skarsgard, Los Poblanos, and Democracy

podcast — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 03:12:21 +0000

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) makes our societies freer and more democratic, or so says Farmer Monte Skarsgard of Los Poblanos organic farm. Today the podcast takes a local twist, focusing on a CSA farmer here in our hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Monte talks about the challenges of farming in the desert Southwest, and gives us some tips on why CSA enhances our democracy.

Thanks for joining us, and enjoy the interview.

Episode #7: The Real Dirt on Farmer John

podcast — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 01:52:12 +0000

Today we have are lucky to speak with John Peterson, who is the focus of the new documentary film The Real Dirt on Farmer John. Farmer John tells us about the death and rebirth of his farm, which was made possible by a lot of hardwork and a complete rethinking of his production model. By going organic and implementing a CSA approach, Farmer John has shown us the way to reverse the collapse of the family-owned farm.

As soon as the movie is showing in theatres, we’ll post some information on the website. Enjoy the show!

Episode #6: The Birth of CSA, Elizabeth Keen and Indian Line Farm

podcast — Tue, 19 Dec 2006 06:29:00 +0000

As we shift our attention from agricultural biodiversity to community supported agriculture (CSA), we speak with Elizabeth Keen of Indian Line Farm, one of the first CSAs in the country and former farm of the late CSA visionary Robyn Van En.

Elizabeth tells us about Robyn’s life and her vision, and she explains the history and current status of Indian Line Farm. CSA is one of the most promising innovations in agriculture in the past 50 years, so please have a listen to learn more.

Episode #5: Chirimoya, Entrevista con Ing. Gustavo Cardenas

podcast — Fri, 15 Dec 2006 01:46:09 +0000

Hoy hablamos con Ing. Gustavo Cardenas, experto en la produccion de la chirimoya. Tocamos varios temas interesantes: la poda, el riego, la variabilidad genetica, y otros puntos interesantes sobre este producto con alta potencial economica.

Agradecemos a la Honorable Alcaldia Municipal de Mizque por el apoyo que ha proporcionado en la realizacion de un diagnostico de la potencial de la chirimoya. Proximamente tendremos otro programa que trata de la comercializacion y otros temas que incluimos en nuestra propuesta de intensificacion.

Episode #4: Dr. Suzanne Nelson: Native Seeds/SEARCH

podcast — Thu, 07 Dec 2006 02:12:15 +0000

On this final episode dealing with agricultural biodiversity, I speak with Dr. Suzanne Nelson, Director of conservation with Native Seeds/SEARCH. We discuss the mission and work of the organization, and the cultural and biological signifance of the crops of the desert Southwest.

We also touch on the socio-economic implications of agricultural biodiversity, including the effect of NAFTA, and the potential effects of global warming. Next, we’ll be interviewing experts and activists in the area of Community Supported Agriculture

Episode #3: Highland Andean Crops: Interview with Emigdio Ballon

podcast — Mon, 20 Nov 2006 21:49:28 +0000

For most of us, agricultural biodiversity is a topic of unknowns. It is about the crops and foods that we don’t know; foods that we have never seen or tasted.

In this episode, we talk with Emigdio Ballon, who is an expert on the production of highland Andean crops like quinoa, amaranth, and maca. I asked Emigdio about the historical and cultural importance of these crops, and what can be done to preserve these important resources. We also discuss their economic potential, and prospects for achieving a greater market share.

Episode #2: Rex Dufour on Agrobiodiversity and Entomology

podcast — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 22:22:51 +0000

As we continue this month’s theme of agricultural biodiversity, I interview Rex Dufour, entomologist and organic pest control expert with ATTRA, the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service.

Rex describes the role of insects in the agroecosystem, and emphasizes the importance of preserving biodiversity to control insect pests. As he explains it, beneficial insects can act as “little hammers”, keeping harmful insect populations under control through predation and parasitizing. The key question is how we design our managed ecosystems to maximize these interactions and reduce our reliance on costly agrochemicals.

Please have a listen, and thanks for stopping by.

Episode #1: Walter Kaiser Life of a Plant Pathologist

podcast — Mon, 06 Nov 2006 21:00:33 +0000

Welcome to the agroinnovations podcast. This month our focus is on agricultural biodiversity, and we will be interviewing a number of professionals to get a broad perspective on the importance of and the risks facing our agricultural biodiversity.

For our very first epidsode of the agroinnovations podcast, we’ll be interviewing Dr. Walter Kaiser. In this interview, Dr. Kaiser talks about his experiences as a plant pathologist on four continents spanning a period of four decades. Dr. Kaiser gives us insight on germplasm collection, biodiversity, and the cultivation of edible mushrooms. Have a listen, and thanks for stopping by.