When I did my brief stint as an agroecology undergrad at UBC before getting a position in the lab, I was into permaculture and sustainable this and biodynamic that. Still am, but not to the same degree.
I recall reading about Sepp Holzer, who impressively established an intensively cultivated yet harmoniously functioning garden at the top of some mountains in Austria. Check it out:
"His experience is the only source of knowledge he trusts" -- I love that.
Aaand the controversial Foie Gras:
The take-away: "I give the geese what they want."
The key to successful permaculture systems: "Giving each species what it wants."
Social engineering: "Give the people what they want."
