Brief

Anti-spasmodic herb used to treat respiratory problems, colds, and anxiety; also used externally for cuts and bruises.

Medicinal Properties

Anti-spasmodic, expectorant, diaphoretic, nervine, anti-inflammatory, carminative, hepatic, emmenagogue. The healing virtues of the plant are due to a particular volatile oil, which is stimulative, carminative and sudorific.
Hyssop’s herbal uses are largely attributable to the anti-spasmodic action of the volatile oil. It is used in coughs, bronchitis and chronic catarrh. Its diaphoretic properties makes it useful for its use in the common cold. As a nervine, it may be used in anxiety states, hysteria and petit mal (a form of epilepsy).

Other indications include:

Parts Used

Leaves, stems and flowers

Contraindications

It contain pinocamphone so it should be used in moderation and should be avoided during pregnancy and by people suffering from epilepsy. Do not use continuously for extended periods. The essential oil contains the ketone pino-camphone, which in high doses can cause convulsions. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

Lore

A traditional herb used since Biblical times, hyssop has long been popular for treating mild respiratory problems. In folk medicine, hyssop tea or gargle is taken as an expectorant, and also help to treat hoarseness, colds, coughs and sore throats.

Sources Cited

http://www.wildcrafted.com.au/Botanicals/Hyssop.html

http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/h/hyssop48.html

Brief

Tonic, digestive and memory aid, emetic, and blood purifier; also used to treat excessive sweating.

Medicinal Properties

Tonic, stimulant, diaphoretic, emetic and emmenagogue. In large doses, Blessed Thistle acts as a strong emetic, producing vomiting with little pain and inconvenience. Cold infusions in smaller draughts are valuable in weak and debilitated conditions of the stomach, and as a tonic, creating appetite and preventing sickness.

The bitter compounds in Blessed thistle are thought to result in improved flow of saliva and gastric activity, and treat problems such as heartburn, indigestion, gas and constipation.

The plant was at one time supposed to possess very great virtues against fevers of all kinds.

Blessed thistle also has its uses in the purification and circulation of the blood, and is used to treat infections, edema, and heart and liver ailments. It is also believed to strengthen the brain and memory. The leaves, dried and powdered, are good for worms.

Parts Used

Whole herb

Contraindications

Because of its irritating effect, blessed thistle is contraindicated in gastric ulcer or in inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease.

Lore

Monks often grew Blessed Thistle as a cure for small pox. Historically, blessed thistle tea has been drunk for digestive problems, liver and gall bladder problems, headache prevention, respiratory ailments, memory improvement and external problems such as sores, boils and itchy skin.

Sources Cited

http://www.drugs.com/npp/blessed-thistle.html#ixzz0rdnR7czN

http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/t/thistl11.html#hol

Brief

Eases the common cold, chronic respiratory infections, aids in recovery from both cancer and the side effects of cancer therapy, and enhances health of the immune system.

Medicinal Properties

Astragalus is very useful as an herbal medicine in treating viral infections, including those that cause the common cold and flu. The Astragalus root stands out as a unique remedy in the treatment of physical exhaustion. The most common use of Astragalus root in herbal medicine in the US is as an immuno-stimulant to counteract the immune suppression associated with cancer therapy.

The herbal medical system in China link the herbal remedy to an ability for warming and toning the wei qi, which is the concept of a protective energy, circulating in the human body immediately beneath the skin. This energy is supposed to help the human body to adapt rapidly to external influences and changes in temperature, particularly to cold weather climates.

Herbal remedies made from Astragalus are also used to rectify cases of excessive sweating, including disorders like sudden night sweats in many individuals. Persistent thirst is also reduced by remedies made from Astragalus, and is also very helpful in bringing relief from fluid retention disorders affecting different individuals.
Astragalus treats prolapsed organs, especially the uterus, and it is beneficial for uterine bleeding. Astragalus is often combined with Chinese angelica as a blood tonic to treat anemia.

Parts Used

Dried root

Contraindications

Astragalus is considered non-toxic in any dosages.

Lore

Astragalus has been used for more than two thousand years in China. In traditional Chinese medicine, Astragalus is usually made into a decoction – the roots are boiled in water then removed. It’s often combined with other herbs, such as ginseng.

Sources Cited

http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_astragalus.htm

http://www.newsfinder.org/site/more/astragalus/

Brief

Sedative, anti-inflammatory, immunity booster and aphrodisiac. Improves memory and helps one cope with daily stress.

Medicinal Properties

Ashwagandha acts as a sedative, anti-inflammatory, immunity booster, and aphrodisiac. It also acts as an anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory agent. Its naturally occurring steroidal content is much higher than that of hydrocortisone.
American therapists have also found the herb useful in treating depression, alcohol dependency and schizophrenia. Also, when Ashwagandha is taken regularly, memory and learning skills increase dramatically.
It is heat neutral which means it has no warming or cooling properties.
Ashwagandha stimulates the immune system and helps maintain general health and wellness. It is also known to increase the production of bone marrow, semen, and inhibit the aging process. It is a unique herb with anti-stress adaptogenic action that leads to better physical fitness and helps cope with life’s daily stress. It is especially beneficial in stress related disorders such as arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, and premature aging.

Parts Used

Roots, leaves.

Contraindications
If congested, do not take. Do not use if pregnant or breast feeding. Talk to a doctor before using as adjunct treatment for AIDS and cancer.
Lore
Ashwagandha has a long medicinal history stemming back 4000 years. The herb can be traced in ancient ayurvedic texts like Charka Samhita, Ashtaang Samgraha and Susruta Samhita. This particular herb was used to treat various infectious diseases, as well as tremors, inflammation and especially arthritis. It was also used for sexual enhancement and longevity. The word Ashwagandha literally means “the sweat of a horse” indicating that one who takes it would have the strength and sexual vitality of a horse.
Sources Cited

http://www.ayurvedic-medicines.com/herbs/ashwagandha.html

http://www.goherbalremedies.com/blog/herbal-remedies-by-ashwagandha/

Antibacterial, antifungal, carminative and digestive aid. Used to alleviate colds and stimulate the digestive system, as well as a compress for burns, fevers and headaches.

Medicinal Properties

Agastache foeniculum leaves have antibacterial properties and are taken as an infusion to alleviate coughs and colds. Anise is a carminative, warming digestive aid.

Anise hyssop clears excessive dampness in the stomach and spleen and heaviness in the chest. It is used as a preventive for heat stroke and summer colds.

The leaves are used topically as a compress for angina, burns, fever, headache, heatstroke, and herpes. The plant is excellent in baths and foot-baths for simply cooling off or for treating sunburn and fungal conditions such as athlete’s foot and yeast overgrowth.

Parts Used

The leaves and flowers which can be fresh or dried are used.

Contraindications

Anise Hyssop should not be consumed during pregnancy.

Lore

Anise hyssop has been used by North American First Nations people as a breath-freshener, as a tea and as a sweetener. An infusion of the herb was used for chest pains, and the roots were used for coughs. The Cheyenne used anise hyssop tea to relieve depression, while the Cree and Chippewa included it in protective medicine bundles. Agastache is used in Chinese prescriptions for heatstroke, headache, fever, and angina.

Sources Cited

http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/crops/medicinal/bkq00s02.html

Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health
http://www.melodyanns.com/anisehyssop.html

Sunday, Sept 12, 12:30 – 6:00

Visits to several local PC sites in Boulder & Lyons. See, feel and engage in design exercises in some of Boulder County’s best PC models.

Location: to be arranged
Taught by: Zia, Coco, and the various stewards of these properties
Cost: $40.

Fungi: exploring the possibilities

September 26, 1:30-6:00 pm

Discover why people are saying “Fungi is here to save the day!” Including growing, medicinal and culinary uses, and overall advantages to you, your yard, and the planet. Taught by Jim Gibson, a seasoned mushroom lover & hunter, and student and friend of Paul Stamets. He is a wealth of clear, concise, and humorous information about all things mycological. He is also a Permaculture designer, activist, and has directed several small businesses.

Location: Willow Way, 6481 N 63rd St.
Cost: $40 To register, call Zia, 303-530-1415
More about these and other workshops:
Check out the Workshops for the General Public below or at willowwaywellness.com/blog/2010/05/workshops-for-the-general-public/. For the life, Zia Parker 303.530.1415

HERB LIST: Scroll down for your choices of Culinary Herbs, Medicinals, Tinctures, Tea Blends

Culinary Herbs

Basil: Cinnamon, Genovese, Thai,
Chervil
Chives, Allium schoenoprasum
Cilantro, Coriandrum sativum
Dill
Epazote
Fennel
Lemon Thyme
Mint: Chocolate Mint, Spearmint, Peppermint
Oregano, Greek
Sage: Broadleaf, Pineapple, Victorian Blue
Summer Savory
Tarragon
Thyme, Mother of Thyme (Thymus Pulegioides)

Medicinals

Arrowleaf Balsamroot
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Astragalus
Blackberry Leaf
Blessed Thistle
Cockscomb
Columbine, Blue (Aquilegia coerulea)
Comfrey
Echinacea purpurea
Horehound
Hyssop: Anise, Hyssopus Officinalis, Blue, Sunset
Geranium
Marshmallow  (Althaea officinalis)
Pleurisy Root
Primrose, New Mexico Native
Raspberry Leaf
Skullcap: Baikal, Mad Dog (Scuttelaria lateriflora)
Spilanthes (Splanthes oleracea)
Vervain, Blue (Verbena hastata)
Yarrow

Both Culinary and Medicinal
Anise
Bergamot: Lemon, Wild (Monarda Fistulosa)
Borage (Borago officinalis)
Chamomile
Lavender: Augustofolia, Munstead
Lemon Balm (Melissa)
Lovage
Mint: Peppermint, Spearmint
Nettles, Stinging
Pennyroyal
Red clover
Rosemary
Sage, Broad Leaf
Spearmint
Tulsi (Holy Basil)

Tinctures available for Summer Share 2010:
Hyssop
Lemon Bergamot
Spilanthes
Yarrow

Tea Blend Choices for Summer Share 2010:

Summer Lift
Ingredients: Tulsi, Sunset Hyssop, Blackberry leaf. Tulsi, or Holy Basil is highly revered in Aryuveda for its wide range of health benefits. It is an adaptogen, helping you adapt to stress and environmental changes. It improves stamina and endurance, and increases the body’s efficiency in using oxygen. It enhances protein synthesis and strength. It is very high in anti-oxidants, and is great for adrenal support. Hyssop is a great immune booster. It warms and stimulates the lungs, helps the body expel phlegm, increases respiratory capacity, balances circulation.

Fruity Chai:
Ingredients: Elderberry, Nettle, Raspberry Leaf, Licorice, Cardamom Seed, Peppercorns, Stevia. Excellent with a little honey or fruit juice to sweeten.

Spicey Swig:
So tasty! Hibiscus, Ginger, Anise, Cinnamon, Stevia. This is one tea with ingredients from off the farm. We love this combo so much, we want to bring it to you.

Lemon Lift: Lemon Balm, Mint, Tulsi, Comfrey : a simply great summertime combination for energy and nutrition.

Ener-Chi Tea:
excellent for an energy boost –whenever you need it!
Ingredients: Tulsi, Spearmint, Lemon Balm, Raspberry Leaf, Ginger.

Dreamland Connection:
This combination is a relaxing bridge to dreamland. Ingredients: Chamomile, Skullcap, Catnip, Lemon Balm, Raspberry Leaf.

Click here for more information on our herbal CSA!

• Pure Life Herbal Share Order Form

• Thrifty Medley Herbal Share Order Form

• Culinary Herb Share Order Form

When you purchase a share, it helps minimize the farmer’s risks, and helps connect you to the land. People are recognizing the importance of knowing where their food came from, and feeling urgent about cutting the petro-calories in each calorie of food.

There are 4 types of shares to chose from, each containing herbs grown with Earth-loving Permaculture methods at Willow Way Farm*. Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring shares are still available. Sign up now for one season, or sign up for all four seasons and get a 15% discount!

The four share options, all delivered to convenient drop-off locations, are the Pure Life Herbal Share, the Culinary Herb Share, the Thrifty Medley, and the Professional Share.

* Willow Way does not use any chemical fertilizer or toxic pest controls on any portion of the land and are committed to growing native or well adapted herbs, thereby lessening input needs, including the amount of water used. We also grow local natives under pressure from over-harvesting.

Our four types of shares:

1) The Pure Life Herbal Share provides herb teas and an array of medicinal and body care products that are a match for the season. For teas, we offer our own yummy blends, and single herbs so you can make your favorite blends.

• Choose 3 single-herb teas (2 oz. each)
• Choose 2 yummy Willow Way herb tea blends (2 oz. each)
• Choose 1 tincture (1 oz.)
• Super Healing salve, 1 oz: for stings, cuts, burns, bites, dryness
• Spray-on Facial Skin Food, unscented OR Rose, 2 oz
• Safe & Effective Insect Spray, 4 oz.
• One free Willow Way Flower Essence.

Pure-Life Herbal CSA Shares, all four seasons. Sign up for one season-share at $70.
Sign up for all four seasons for a 15% discount at $240. Scroll down to SIGN UP.

2) The Culinary Herb Share offers fresh culinary herbs twice monthly during Summer, Fall and Spring on the first and third Thursday of every month, starting August 5th.

Your choice of 4 herbs, 1 oz. each for each delivery,
6 deliveries per season for $55.

SPECIAL Grand Opening OFFER! Our very first culinary share will be available only as a “half-share” from August 5-September 9. Receive three culinary herb drop-offs, four herbs each time, for only $20.

In the Winter, culinary herbs are offered once per season as either frozen products, or, dehydrated. Frozen culinary herbs are common, and very appreciated in Europe. Our selection will not be quite as varied for the winter share. Cost $30.

15% discount for all four seasons and 16 deliveries, $136.

3) The Thrifty Medley Share. An attractive budget combo:
• Choose 3 culinary herbs (1 oz each)
•Choose 1 tea herb (2 oz each)
•Choose 1 yummy Willow Way herb tea blend (2 oz)
• Spray-on Facial Skin Food, unscented OR Rose
Delivery to drop-off stations once per season, $30.

15% discount for all four seasons and four deliveries, $102.

4) The Professional Herbalist Share, Herbalists and the enthusiasts.
Your choice of fresh or dehydrated herbs for a value of $30/share, with an additional discount for $60. share. Prices to be listed soon.

SIGN UP NOW by sending an email or call with your name, address, and phone. Send a check made to Willow Way, to 6481 N 63rd St, Longmont, Co 80503 or pay via Paypal.If you would like to use a credit card, go to PayPal.com. When prompted for the recipient’s email, use ziaparker@yahoo.com to transfer funds to Zia, owner of Willow Way Herbs.

List of Drop-off points: (First drop-off is August 5, then, every two weeks for Culinary Share, Pure-Life Shares as listed)
•The 63rd St. Farm, (this is NOT Willow Way Farm), 3796 N 63rd St, 80304 (first turn in road, S of Jay Rd on 63rd, E side of road, follow lane), 2-7:00 pm Thursday
•2401 Broadway St, (E side of Broadway, between Mapleton and Portland, round white building–please give Zia a call –303-530-1415–for details on where in this building to find your share!)
We are seeking drop-off points in Longmont, Ft. Collins and Denver. If you can offer one, please call Zia 303-530-1415.

Click here to view the complete list of our herbs!

If you would like to sample our delightful, delectable, potent and highly desirable herbs, give a call, we’ll arrange to get a sample to you.

Fall Share (Sept 23):
• Choose 2 two-ounce herb tea blends.
• Choose 3 single herb tea two ounce packets,
or, ½ oz.dried culinary herb.
• Choose 2-1ounce tinctures or tincture blends
• Medicinal honey 4 oz. infused with 4 immune-strengthening tinctures
• Two beeswax candles (two small pillars).
• One Russian Sage sachet, or, Sage Smudge stick.
• One free Willow Way Flower Essence.

Winter Share (early Dec):
• Choose 2 two-ounce herb tea blends.
• Choose 3 single herb tea two ounce packets,
or, ½ oz. dried culinary herb.
• Choose 2 1-ounce tinctures or tincture blends.
• Cherry-Horehound syrup for cough season, 8 oz.
• Medicinal Honey Oxymel (oxymels are similar to tinctures, but include vinegar-based tinctures for a more balanced pH) 4 oz.
• Beeswax candles: one re-usable jar candle, one small pillar.
• One free Willow Way Flower Essence.

Spring Share (March 2011):
• Choose 2 two-ounce herb tea blends.
• Choose 3 single herb tea two ounce packets,
or, ½ oz.dried culinary herb.
• Choose 1 2-ounce tinctures or tincture blends.
• Herb blend skin cream 3 oz.
• Choose Arnica salve for muscle aches, or,
Super Healing salve: insect bites, stings, cuts, burns.
• Lavender MT oil, or, Catnip Cat Toy.
• Choose 2″ x 4” herb plant seedlings.

Sign up for one season-share at $70.
Signing up for all four seasons for a 15% discount at $240.

Fruit Tree Care: Selection, Grafting, and Pruning

Sunday, April 3, 8:30-12:30

You will bring home a small fruit tree that you have grafted. Bring a sharp knife if possible, preferably a grafting knife.

Location: The 63rd St Farm,
Taught by: Wesley Schwartz
Cost: $45

Chickens 101

Sunday April 3, 1:00-5:00

Learn everything you need to know to get started with backyard chickens.

Location: The 63rd St Farm, 3796 63rd St
Taught by: Zia Parker
Cost: $45

Introducttion to Fungi class

Sunday, May 2, 8:30-12:30

Intro to Multiple Uses of Fungi: growing, medicinal and culinary uses, and overall advantages to you, your yard, and the planet.

Location: The 63rd St. Farm,
Taught by: Jim Gibson
Cost: $45

Ecological Building Renewable Energy & Appropriate Technologies

Sunday, May 16, 8:00-6

We will be working with and mixing natural plasters and prepping for strawbale construction of a root cellar. Be prepared to get muddy. Bring work gloves,
and a trowel if you have one. Also bring lunch and a cup, and layered clothing & rain gear.

Location: On site visit – To Carpool, meet at 7:50 am at the parking lot at the Bus Stop Bar on N Broadway, just N of Lee Hill Road, 4871 Broadway St, Boulder, CO 80304. We will carpool to a fabulous PC site in Left Hand Canyon
Taught by: Jeff Graef, Naomi & Rick Maddux
Cost: $85.

PERMACULTURE GARDENING:

Nutrient Cycling of Soil & Plants**Three short workshops, or join for the full day.

Soil & Soil Basics

Sunday, June 6, 8:30-11:30

Soil is the basis of any garden or farm. Learn about various soil qualities, how to assess it, cost-free soil testing, crop rotation, cover crops, companion planting.

Location: Willow Way
Taught by: Zia Parker
Cost: $30 (or $85 for the entire day**)

Building Soil Life for Optimal Fertility

Sunday, June 6, 12:15-4:00

How do you build a rich, life-supporting soil? There are many ways! Come learn some methods of increasing soil fertility such as vermiculture, compost, bio-brews, compost teas, & mycelium innoculation. Learn how to vitalize the soil-food-web in your garden. This class also covers Earthworks, including keyline design, Yeoman plow, and an overview of agroforestry.

Location: Willow Way
Taught by: Zia Parker
Cost: $40 (or $85 for the entire day**)

Plant Communication

Sunday, June 6, 4:00 – 6:00

An introduction to current literature and experience on connecting and communicating with plants and other species. Phase I of the Plant Communicator series. For more, see www.ziaparker.com/naturecommunication

Location: Willow Way
Taught by: Zia Parker
Cost: $20 (or $85 for the entire day**)

**Three short workshops, or join for the full day.

The Wisdom of Plants:

Saturday and Sunday, June 19-20, Full days

Opening the senses to deep plant observation, pattern recognition & building relationship with plants and Mother Earth.

Plant walk & stories with Brigitte Mars. Identification of native medicinals.

At this two day camp out, we will review and discuss literature that has surfaced in modern culture on this age-old topic and you will have the opportunity to explore YOUR optimal method for deep exchange with the plant world.

This is Phase II of Plant Communicator Training. For more, see www.ziaparker.com/naturecommunication. Phase I of Plant Communicator Training is NOT required to participant in this class.

Location: Camp-out at Ceran St. Vrain campground, West of Jamestown near the Peak to Peak Highway. Carpool from parking lot at the Bus Stop Bar, 4871 Broadway St Boulder, CO 80304, Meet at 7:50 am Saturday, return to Boulder by 5:00 pm Sunday.
Taught by: Zia Parker with special guest Brigitte Mars
Cost: $160

Nutrient Cycling: Water Environments

Sunday, June 27, 8:30-3:30

Wise Water Use: Constructed Wetlands, “Living Machines” bio-detoxification, Aquaculture.

Location: Willow Way
Taught by: Mait, Zia Parker
Cost: $65

Urban Permaculture, Sustainable Community Design & Aquaponics

Sunday, June 27, 9:30-5:00 at the GrowHaus in Denver.

Join us for a learning-packed day at downtown Denver’s leading edge innovation in Urban Permaculture and Aquaponics. Find out why Aquaponics–the symbiotic cultivation of fish and plants has grass-roots activists as well as city planners reeling at the possibilities. Spawned by city-ag genius Will Allen, Denver is one of several cities that are transforming inner-city “food deserts” into life-affirming/self-generated sources of yummy, healthy food!
The Growhaus has the potential to match Will Allen’s stunning results of growing food for 2,000 on 3 acres in inner-city Milwaukee.

Willow Way’s teaching team line-up: Adam Brock on Urban PC, Coco Gordon –fresh from a month-long intensive on Portland’s famous “City Repair” project, and Mait Walker, water engineer on Aquaponics.

(see http://willowwaywellness.com/blog/pc/ for details on Teaching Team)

To register, call Zia at 303-530-1415. Cost: $85.

Wilderness Trek

July 17-22, Full days

This is an experience in deepening into the most fundamental level of Permaculture: recognizing patterns in nature as the building blocks of good design. Plant communication is also based on keen & highly receptive observation of our plant friends.

Phase III: Plant Communicator Training: deepening further, bonding with the pathways of plant communication that move you most, native plant ID. Phase I & II Plant Communicator Training NOT required to attend this class.

Limited to 8 attendees.

Taught by: Zia Parker, Dennis Evenson – Philosopher & FindHorn plant wisdom wizard &, Cook Rodgers – Animal Therapist Specialist
Location: to be arranged
Cost: $450

Solar Dehydrators

Intro to Tool Use & Safety
8:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Sunday, Aug 1
Vegetarian lunch included, from 12:00-1:00 p.m.
At Willow Way, 6481 N 63rd St, 80503
Registration is necessary. See below.

8:30-9:30 Tools & Safety Taught by Jeff Graef Intro to working safely with tools. This is our starting point, as we will be working some with tools for the dehydrator workshop.

9:30-2:00 Food Dehydration & Solar Dehydrators Jeff Graef will present the basics of food dehydration—the most energy efficient method of food preservation for our climate. We will visit Willow Way’s small greenhouse, now modified into a herb dehydrator. Then we will work together on how to make a quality solar food dryer.

Jeff Graff is an avid Permaculture practitioner and designer from Denver. His business, Earth Rebirth, provides educational services, consulting and design in Permaculture. Jeff ran a solar design and energy education business for seven years, is a Journeyman Carpenter and worked in the biofuels and biomass energy fields for 15 years. He is experienced in food preservation and storage, and gardening in a variety of climates. Jeff is a certified Permaculture Teacher, has a BA in Solar Design and Energy Education, and an MS in Higher Education.

12:00-1:00 vegetarian lunch will be served. Lunch is included in the workshop price.

To register, Call Zia Parker 303-530-1415. Cost $40.

Making Herbal Medicines:

Sunday, August 1, 2:00 – 6:00

Making Herbal Medicines
Willow Way Permaculture Workshop at Willow Way, 6481 N 63rd St., 80503
Sunday August 1, 2:00-6:00 pm
Registration is necessary. See below.

Walk Willow Way Permaculture Farm and harvest the herbs we will make into medicinals. We will make a tincture and a salve under the tutelage of Mary O’Brien, seasoned herbalist. Discuss microclimate, soil & water conditions for many of the 70 herbs we are growing here that adapt well to our valley.

Mary O’Brien has a passion for healing herbs. She has been studying and practicing herbal medicine since 1987, completing the Chartered Herbalist program with Dominion Herbal College and studying with various teachers, including Rosemary Gladstar, Brigitte Mars, Michael Moore, and Stephen Buhner. She teaches herbal medicine, leads edible and medicinal herb walks, makes herbal products and maintains a medicinal garden. Her emphasis is on using native and locally grown plants. She has now expanded her orientation by completing the Permaculture certification from Central Rocky Mountain Permaculture Institute and wants to help others create their own healing gardens.

To register, call Zia at 303-530-1415. Cost: $40.

Introduction to Ecological Beekeeping

Sunday, August 15, 8:30 – 12:30
Lunch from 12:30-1:30 will be served. This is part of your course fee.

Bees! These amazing tiny creatures are essential to our quest for sustainability and balance with nature. Kelly Simmons, seasoned Permaculturalist and sustainability educator, will provide an overview of the basics of bees and beekeeping.

Kelly Simmons A graduate of UC Santa Cruz in ecology, holds a teaching certificate as well as a certificate in permaculture design and permaculture teaching. She has taught courses in sustainable living and Permaculture across Colorado including Central Rocky Mountain Permaculture Institute, The Watershed School, CU Boulder and Naropa University, as well as developing curriculum for K-12 and adults at the Tri Hita Karana Permaculture Center, an international school in Bali, Indonesia. Kelly is the founder and director of the Boulder Sustainability Education Center, a non-profit dedicated to teaching sustainable living skills and permaculture and currently lives with a small menagerie of chickens, ducks, honeybees, worms and her family along with gardens and an orchard in downtown Boulder.

Location: Willow Way
Taught by: Kelly Simmons
Cost: $40.

Season Extension: Hoop Houses & Cold Frames

Sunday, August 15, 1:30 – 6:00
Lunch from 12:30-1:30 will be served. This is part of your course fee.

Learn planting strategies as well as common-sense designs for effective simple structures for lengthening our high-country growing days.  By timing successional plantings accurately and simple, low-cost structures, we can grow year-round in our climate. In this workshop, we will show many strategies for extending the growing season for Front Range conditions.

Location: Willow Way
Taught by: Zia Parker and Jeff Graef. Teacher bios are at willowwaywellness.com/blog/pc/#team.
Cost: $40.

PC Site Tours

Sunday, Sept 12, 12:30 – 6:00

Visits to several local PC sites in Boulder & Lyons. At each site, we will engage in group design exercises. This involves a brain-storming process with a small group, using Permaculture principles, and applying them to the property we are visiting. This is a fun collaborative creative project in visioning the potential of these places. This is an elective in our certification course. Permaculture Design Course students will work together with those who are “dropping in” on this workshop. It is a good opportunity to get a sense of the span of sustainability design skills the PDC makes available to students at this point in their training.

Location: Meet at Willow Way, 6481 N 63rd. To register, call Zia , 303-530-1415. Lunch served as part of the course at 11:30 am.
Taught by: Zia, Coco, and the various stewards of these properties
Cost: $40.

Fungi: exploring the possibilities

September 26, 1:30-6:00 pm

Discover why people are saying “Fungi is here to save the day!” Including growing, medicinal and culinary uses, and overall advantages to you, your yard, and the planet. Taught by Jim Gibson, a seasoned mushroom lover & hunter, and student and friend of Paul Stamets. He is a wealth of clear, concise, and humorous information about all things mycological. He is also a Permaculture designer, activist, and has directed several small businesses.

Location: Willow Way, 6481 N 63rd St.
Cost: $40 To register, call Zia, 303-530-1415