A Revelation in the Jungle

A journey through the Costa Rican rainforest in 2000 ignited a passion for conservation in me. Lush biodiversity teeming under a giant canopy left a lasting impression. Back in New Jersey, I bought land and embarked on a journey to restore it.

 Years of struggle followed. Invasive plants choked native flora, and disease ravaged saplings. Witnessing this struggle mirrored the decline of Costa Rica’s forests due to human activity. It fueled my desire to mimic the rainforest’s balance, not just remove invaders.

Research led me to the concept of food forests –  self-sustaining ecosystems mimicking natural woodland structures. Inspired, I began mimicking the rainforest’s layers. Native trees provided a canopy, while lower levels housed edible plants and beneficial fungi.

This approach yielded success. By understanding the connections between organisms and encouraging natural processes, the ecosystem thrived. Invasive species were no longer the sole focus; the goal became creating an environment where invasives couldn’t compete. This shift from “gentleman farmer” to “custodian woodland farmer” reflected my evolving role within the ecosystem.

My journey demonstrates the power of mimicking nature’s balance. Custodial woodland farming offers a path to healthier ecosystems, increased food production, and a more sustainable future. Let’s restore lost forests and create a network of thriving, food producing, ecosystems for generations to come.