Creating & using swales: Passive water harvesting in the garden

You're probably familiar with rain tanks and water wise plantings, but did you know there are other clever ways to keep your garden green and lush? 

This workshop introduces you to the wonderful world of SWALES!

Swales are a super simple way to improve the water holding capacity of a slope and in this practical 2- hour workshop you can help create one right in the Canberra Environment Centre garden! 

The workshop will cover:

• the concept of swales, when to use them and how they work
• key safety considerations regarding slope and soil type
• how to measure out a contour line using simple equipment you can make at home
• hands-on experience making a swale.

Facilitator

This workshop is run by Dr Cally Brennan, founder of Canberra Permaculture Design and Education, a permaculture-focused garden design and education business in Canberra. She has qualifications in permaculture and advanced permaculture design and has a particular interest in passive water harvesting. Cally, her partner Jeremy and daughter Sophie, manage their productive home food garden in Cook, along with three slightly mad chickens.

Check out the rain water harvesting approach that Cally has implemented in her own garden in this video!

CATERING

Morning tea will be provided, including tea, coffee and light refreshments.

EVENT ACCESSIBILITY

Gungaderra Homestead has wheelchair access as well as access to bathrooms and kitchen facilities. Access to the community garden [where the practical element of the workshop will be held] is on uneven ground/ grass.

SAFETY INFORMATION

This event will be held outdoors. We suggest you bring along a drink bottle, sun protection and enclosed footwear as well as clothing you're happy to do some digging in.

SPECIAL NOTES

In the event of wet weather this workshop will be cancelled and postponed to a later date. Refunds will be available, if requested.