Join us for a hands-on field day focused on building resilient landscapes through earthworks and soil enhancement. Participants will learn how to shape the land to manage water effectively, starting with rough layout and contour marking using tools like a laser level. We'll dive into shaping earthworks by hand, reinforcing key areas such as inlets, overflows, and berms with cobbles where needed.

The workshop will also cover soil conditioning using biochar, natural extracts, and organic additives to boost microbial life and fertility. We'll finish by seeding cover crops, planting, mulching, and watering to help establish a healthy, living system. The day will include opportunities for discussion, observation, and hands-on practice for anyone interested in ecological land management and regenerative techniques.

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM 

Introductions + Explain Prior work finished for field day and introduce calculations and concepts. Demonstrate use of laser level in finding and marking contours.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM 

Starting at the top, shaping earthworks with rakes. Armoring inlets and overflows as well as berms with cobbles when appropriate. 

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 

Condition soil with biochar, compost extracts, and natural amendments; then seed with cover crops and install plantings

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 

Lay mulch and water the work from the morning 

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Lunch and discussion

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Finish lower earthworks 

Location:

Gila, NM (Address will be emailed after registering) 

What to wear/bring:

• Work clothes and shoes
• Sun protection
• Water bottle

This free field day is made possible thanks to generous support from the McCune Charitable Foundation, Nusenda Foundation, and #NoRegrets.