permaculture

Workshop Module 8: Forests, Tree Crops, and Bamboo 231

Field activity : Prepare swales for planting (Swale Ex. 2)

Method   :  Participatory   field   activity

Tools : See description below

References : PC Book MOD 8 – Forests, Tree Crops, and Bamboo

Objective : Participants practice starting to make a swale system

Preparation

• Materials and tools to prepare:
  
  
  • A-frames (see Module 2 for detailed instructions).
  
  
  • Tools for digging.
  
  
  • Rocks and rotting tree branches to make the swales.
  
  
  • Optional Bamboo watering pipes (see PC Book MOD 6 – Home and
    Community Gardens for detailed instructions).
  
  
  • Water source.
  
  
  
  

Running the exercise

• Take the participants back to the swale demonstration sites.


• Split the participants into smaller workgroups.


• Each group can focus on developing a different part of the swale system that
  was chosen in the earlier swale design exercise.


• Together with the participants, mark out contour lines using the A-frame:
  
  
  • On gentle slopes: Approximately 10-15m apart.
  
  
  • On steep slopes: Approximately 3-5m apart.
  
  
  
  


• Dig the swales using the contour lines as a guide.


• Line the bottom side of the swales with rocks or rotting tree branches to help
  stabilize the swales.


• If using a bamboo watering pipe system, prepare and install it.


• Mark out the planting locations for the trees between the swales.

Note: While working in the area with existing established trees, be careful
not to damage too many tree roots when making the swales.

See PC Book MOD 8 – Forests, Tree Crops, and Bamboo and other exercises in this
book for reference and ideas.

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