Derived from the words "permanent agriculture," the definition of Permaculture is "consciously designed landscapes which mimic the patterns and relationships found in nature, while yielding an abundance of food, fiber and energy for provision of local needs."

Over the last few decades, many global movements and schools-of-thought have generated several new concepts in the search of alternative ways of living.  Permaculture is one of those movements gaining tremendous international interest and credibility, both in the agricultural and community development sectors.  A primary function of Permaculture is to create viable, practical and efficient alternatives which permit human groups to design their living environment using and managing all of their natural resources in a permanent way.  

Permaculture designs promote bio-diversity, significantly reducing the independence on a single crop system - greatly reducing the risk of crop failure and famine.  By integrating all of the elements of indigenous and traditional knowledge (which are facing extinction) with modern technology, local environmental conditions and cultural norms, productive food systems are better suited to sustain themselves, eliminating toxic pollution (i.e. chemical fertilizers, pesticides, etc.), controlling erosion, retaining and replenishing soils and treating/disposing of human waste and more. 

Permaculture designs thoughtfully and scientifically consider many aspects of the site - such as topography, wind direction and strength, seasonal climate changes, micro-climates (created by existing vegetation such as forests, rivers, sun exposure, etc.), and existing soil conditions, as well as specific human needs such as access, aesthetics, commodities, chemical-free (potable) water and the abundant production of organic food all year round.