Connection — Environmental Balance — Resiliency and Health

The focus on connection is reflected through the creation of gathering spaces, both indoor and outdoor, that promote face-to-face interaction among groups of people with a shared purpose. Some gatherings are educational and structured as trainings or retreats for work teams, health collaboratives, foster families, social justice organizations, arts collaboratives or non-profit agencies.  Other gatherings are celebratory, with a focus on reconnecting with nature through camping, sharing meals, and exploring the natural environment. 

The focus on environmental balance demonstrates self-sufficiency and resiliency strategies for current and future generations. It also includes restoration activities that enhance and build on the existing ecosystem. Specifically, LakeFarm Learning models lifestyle strategies that reduce human contributions to climate change and also demonstrate solutions to mitigate and adapt to new climate impacts. On-site water generation and storage as well as renewable energy generation and storage is a key elements of the site. Solar-powered electric vehicle charging is available to residents and visitors. Land management practices are employed to prevent wildfire risks and enhance wildlife. Riparian and water management practices are employed to support a healthy lake environment that can further support local fire-fighting efforts when needed. On-site food production including farming, fishing and animal husbandry which also serves as key elements of self-sufficiency. 

The resiliency and health focus is centered around promoting physical, mental and emotional health through healthy food, a better understanding of the human connection to food sources, and a deeper connection to the environment.  Activities promoting this focus include interaction with local plants and animals, and opportunities to experience woods, pastures, hillsides, marsh areas and a lake. Mental health activities include arts exploration, meditation, yoga, massage and movement. On-site compost and worm bins are fed from local sources. Vegetables, fruit, eggs, milk and medicinal herbs are produced on site to close the loop of human connection with nature, resiliency and heath.