Environmental Considerations of Mesa Life
We are honored to be entrusted with this land, and hold the environment – physical, visual and unseen – to be our highest priority as we plan for our community. The land sits midway between the desert and mountains at about 6,200 feet elevation with a semi-arid climate. A mix of sage, rabbitbrush, oak, juniper, pinon, cactus, and grasses to name a few, cover the landscape. Two year-round streams flow though the land and intermittent streams flow in the springtime. A riparian environment flourishes with cottonwoods, willow, cattails and numerous shrubs and trees nourishing abundant wildlife. The land sits in the center of one of the largest Elk migration routes in North America. Deer abound, as do coyotes, turkeys, songbirds, raptors, the occasional bear and frequent mountain lion visits.
Water and electricity comes from the land and sun. The construction process is planned to have a minimum impact on the surrounding environment. Our homes are designed efficiently and visually blending with the earth.
A Sustainable Life In Relationship with the Natural World
“What does being off the grid have to do with a village ‘rooted in ancestral shamanic tradition as brought forth through the sacred and universal spirit of fire?’ ‘Nothing, for that matter,’ some would say. Shamans live in modern homes these...
We are keenly aware of the inhabitants of this land, and are working diligently to create our community with low impact way to honor the natural flow that exists there. We aspire to community emerging as part of the land rather than be an imposition.
Sustainability Practices
Our sustainable lifestyle practices include but are not limited to:
- Recycling
- composting
- using recycled paper
- using all paper products for fire starter
- recycling clothing
- Sharing tools & equipment
- Car-pooling as necessary
- Several families living in a residence with shared kitchen
- Central outdoor kitchen for groups & summer cooking
- Buying bulk food and canning/drying and freezing
- Purchasing organic and Fair Trade products
- Energy conservation and off-grid solar heating/electricity
- Using energy-efficient appliances
- Winter heating with wood from land
- Building with local materials, using minimal concrete when available
- All natural wood and plaster finishes
- 100% organic gardening and orchards on our land
- Using natural and biodegradable cleaners
- Minimizing toxins of all kinds
