We are pioneering an innovative approach to land use, wilderness preservation and community supported agriculture. Forest farming is the conscious cultivation of perennial plant guilds, mindfully integrated into woodland eco-systems, producing a diversity of useful yields, while enhancing the long term health and integrity of the forest. Our traditional and forest gardens produce an ever increasin
g bounty of medicinal and culinary herbs, fruits, nuts, vegetables, berries, mushrooms, honey, heirloom seed and nursery plants. Watershed Forest Farm members purchase and barter for farm credits that may be exchanged for any combination from the following:
Seasonal produce and farm made products. Wildcrafting (U-Pick medicinal herbs, mushrooms, berry and tree crops). Day hikes, rustic camping, glamping and cabin rentals. Customized solo and group retreats. Event hosting for your ceremonies, retreats, workshops and intimate gatherings. Work and learn internships
Workshops and courses on permaculture, the sustainable arts and natural health. The Land
Our homestead is surrounded by 160 acres of cove hardwood forest that is blessed with massive rock outcroppings, lush creeks, flowing springs and a myriad of secluded niches to explore. The forest has a balanced and diverse herb layer and 4 distinct tree stands in various states of balance from historical logging practices, including a large section of virgin old growth hardwoods on the steep slopes. This enchanted realm is connected by miles of meandering paths leading to a high ridgetop trail with breathtaking panoramic views of the bordering Pisgah National Forest and Appalachian Trail. Rising 1100 feet from our homestead to the encircling ridge, the land's topography forms a self contained watershed basin that harvests an average of 190 million gallons of precipitation each year. These sacred waters cascade through the streams and recharge her springs on its path to the Laurel, French Broad, Tennessee and Mississippi rivers before feeding the Gulf of Mexico. The latitude and altitude of these ancient Southern Appalachian mountains support one of the most biologically diverse temperate regions on the planet. With its direct southern exposure, surrounding wildlands, abundance of water and variance of micro-climates, the Plant and Gather Forest Farm presents an ideal environment to study, observe and experience our region's rich biological diversity. We are developing a Living Classroom Guide with trail maps, forest species identification, self guided nature awareness hikes, earth-grounding practices and free range forest bathing. Does this sound like a place you and others would enjoy visiting for a day, a night, a weekend? Or maybe the perfect place for your intimate ceremony, workshop or ritual, looking to build a life a connection with special place in our region? If so, please consider becoming a member!
