Introduction to Agroecology with Valerie Vanneste in Greece

Cultivation of the earth according to the principles and practices of Agroecology

Nea Guinea (http://neaguinea.org) in collaboration with Terre & Humanisme (http://terre-humanisme.org/) organise a five day introductory course on the basic principles and practices of Agroecology. Through a series of theoretical and practical activities, the participants will have a chance to familiarise themselves with the basic principles and practices of Agroecology, and at the same time gain the necessary technical skills and knowledge in order to start their own agroecological vegetable garden. An outline of the subjects that will be covered throughout the course is the following:

-Understand what is a living soil and climate observation
-Understand the plants and soil needs
-Learn how to make a basic garden compost
-How to start a vegetable plot: plants, seedlings, swales
-How to cultivate basic vegetable, plant rotation, water management
-How to use gardening tools

Teacher Valerie Vanneste:

Valerie has been trained as a landscape designer, and has worked in project management for various industries over 15 years. Ten years ago the importance of becoming self-sufficient in food production changed her views and practices. She discovered permaculture and agroecology. Since then, she has trained with numerous people on her way to achieve better knowledge of her environment. Today, her skills are directed towards designing sustainable human habitats and creating living soil to support our need for food. Valerie runs a center near Toulouse called 'La Bouzigue' (www.fermebouzigue.com)

The course will be in taught in English, with simultaneous translation in Greek if necessary.

Accommodation: Course participants will be provided with a bed in the bunkhouse of Nea Guinea in Nea Makri.

Food: Meals include a vegetarian breakfast, lunch and dinner for every day of the course.