In a previous lifetime, Zia Gallina worked as a botanist for the National Parks Service, on the C&O Canal outside of Washington D.C. (lecturing on wild indigenous and naturalized medicinal and culinary plants). She was also an adjunct professor teaching biology and environmental science at American University, Washington D.C. But she has always been a champion of small-scale biointensive farming, tagging behind Mother Nature, trying to stay as close as she can get.
Permanent Agriculture Part 1: Tree Crops
Almost one hundred years later, Smith’s original ideas for planting a two story agriculture remain inspired—planting crop trees on challenging and depleted land. Trees can do most of the heavy work when it comes to feeding the inhabitants of our planet and repairing our land.
January 22, 2026
Winter Solstice 2025
The day after the solstice we gain a few more minutes of sunlight. Every new year, every season, every cycle, every brand new twenty four hours is a new beginning. Seize the day.
December 17, 2025
Look Up
No matter how little we have or how crazy our lives, we all are enveloped in an impressionist painting if we just look up. We all share the brilliant sunlight, the ever-changing sky, the magical phases of the moon.
November 25, 2025
Do Forests Make It Rain?
If the theory of the biotic pump is correct—and the forests play an essential role in the water cycle—this gives urgent importance to saving our old growth forests and restoring those which have been demolished or degraded.
October 15, 2025
All About Tomatoes (And Asking The Right Questions)
We are not powerless. Every time we make a purchase, especially with our food, there are consequences to our health and the health of our environment.
September 2, 2025
Finding Our Way Home Part III: Finding Community
For me, the mountain on which I live, the animals and plants, the climate, the river and underground spring… actually the land and all it encompasses… this is also my community.
June 11, 2025
























