The Poor Prole’s Almanac

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" features a conversation with Naomi Burton, co-founder of Means TV, a worker-owned, anti-capitalist streaming service. The episode explores the origins of Means TV, its operational model, content creation strategies, and its role in building a left media ecosystem. From Disillusionment to Action: Naomi Burton shares her personal journey of disillusionment with her work in the corporate world, specifically in PR and social media strategy for General Motors, while simultaneously experiencing a political awakening towards communism. This growing disconnect between her labor and her values, coupled with the realization that she and her partner, a freelance film producer for GM, possessed the "means of production" within the company, sparked the idea of leveraging their skills for a purpose aligned with their politics. This led to the creation of "Means of Production," a worker-owned production company that initially created ads for local unions, immigration groups, and socialist political candidates. The success of their ad for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez brought them national attention and highlighted the effectiveness of their approach, which they attribute to their genuine belief in the messages they were conveying, unlike the "propaganda" they felt they had been creating for corporations. The Birth of Means TV: Building upon their experiences and growing audience, Burton and her partner conceived the idea of a "workaround" streaming service, free from corporate influence and advertising, funded by subscribers, and owned by the workers. They envisioned a platform where entertainment, inherently political, would reflect the perspectives and values of working people rather than perpetuating the status quo. They launched a fundraising campaign, utilizing their existing social media presence, and successfully raised over $200,000. This funding enabled them to build the platform, license content, and begin producing original programming, including a news show, a sports show, and a video game show. Growth and Evolution: Two years after its launch, Means TV boasts a worker cooperative of 70 members and thousands of subscribers. The platform has expanded its original programming, transitioning the news show from a weekly to a daily format and creating unique series like "Seize the Memes" and "Preserving Worlds." The episode discusses the diverse nature of content on Means TV, ranging from feature-length documentaries and movies to shorter, more informal content from YouTube creators who align with the platform's anti-capitalist values. The platform offers a space for creators whose content may be deemed controversial or unsuitable for mainstream platforms like YouTube, ensuring that it remains ad-free and accessible to viewers. Challenging Traditional Media Models: Burton highlights the differences between Means TV and traditional streaming services, particularly regarding the lack of rigid structures and the reliance on viewer feedback to shape content creation. This organic approach allows for flexibility and experimentation with formats, catering to a younger audience accustomed to consuming media through platforms like YouTube and TikTok. The absence of advertising and corporate influence allows viewers to engage with the content without skepticism or the feeling of being manipulated. This, Burton argues, fosters a sense of trust and authenticity that is often lacking in mainstream media. Building a Left Media Ecosystem: The episode explores the broader vision of Means TV as part of a growing left media ecosystem, seeking to provide alternative perspectives and challenge the dominance of corporate-controlled media. Burton emphasizes that while all content on Means TV is anti-capitalist, it encompasses a range of viewpoints within that framework, from democratic socialists to communists and anarchists. She expresses hope that Means TV can serve as a "gateway drug" for viewers, exposing them to diverse left-leaning perspectives and potentially shifting their understanding of societal issues. Burton acknowledges the challenges of competing with well-funded, mainstream media outlets but emphasizes that Means TV's focus is on building a sustainable cooperative model that prioritizes fair wages and creative freedom for its workers. She sees collaboration with other like-minded media organizations, such as The Gravel Institute, as crucial to building a robust and impactful left media landscape. The Power of Cooperation: The episode concludes with a discussion about the challenges and rewards of building a worker cooperative in a capitalist system. Burton stresses the importance of finding like-minded individuals, starting small, and learning through experience. She emphasizes that the act of building a cooperative, regardless of the specific industry, is inherently revolutionary and offers a viable alternative to traditional hierarchical business models. To check out MeansTV, visit them on social media or subscribe at https://means.tv For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

We chat with Dr. Anabel Ford, an American archaeologist specializing in the study of Mesoamerica, with a focus on the lowland Maya of Belize and Guatemala. She is recognized for her discovery of the ancient Maya city El Pilar. We chat about the role of the modern Milpa in contemporary society and the future they hold. We are also joined by Torres Master (Forest Gardener), Amor Obando (Master Forest Horticulturalist), Cynthia Ellis Topsey (Community Outreach Activist), and. Norden Martinez (Urban Forest Gardener).   To see and support Dr. Ford's work, please visit: https://exploringsolutionspast.org/   To buy Dr. Ford's book "The Maya Forest Garden: Eight Millennia of Sustainable Cultivation of the Tropical Woodlands" visit: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/maya-forest-garden-anabel-ford/1120805401   Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac        

This episode expands upon the previous discussion of the Maya milpa system, focusing on the intricate relationships between humans, plants, and animals within this dynamic agroforestry practice. The hosts, Andy and Elliott, go beyond simply describing the system, highlighting the ecological and cultural wisdom embedded within it and exploring how it provides a model for sustainable living. Beyond Basic Needs: The Akawal as a Managed Wildlife Area: The episode emphasizes that the akawal, the successional stage following the active milpa cultivation period, plays a vital role beyond simply providing supplemental food and materials. It functions as a carefully managed wildlife area, attracting a diverse array of animals due to its abundance of food sources not readily found in the primary forest. This intentional attraction of wildlife creates a "semi-wild" population of animals that are more readily available for hunting, providing the Lacandon with a critical source of protein and fat. The hosts underscore the nutritional importance of this arrangement, explaining that while fruit trees in the akawal provide valuable sugars and fiber, the primary drivers of human diets are protein and fat. Wild game offers these essential nutrients, creating a beneficial exchange where excess fruit from the akawal sustains animal populations that in turn provide the Lacandon with crucial dietary components. This strategy is particularly vital considering that corn, a staple crop in the milpa, while enhanced in protein quality when prepared as tortillas and supplemented with beans, remains deficient in certain amino acids. Beyond the Milpa: The Importance of Primary Forest and Aquatic Resources: The episode highlights the significance of primary forest beyond the milpa and akawal zones. While these unmanaged forests require no direct labor from the Lacandon, they harbor valuable resources such as fruits, timber, nuts, and resins. The hosts speculate on the possibility that the Lacandon, through generations of selective harvesting and management practices, have influenced the composition of these forests, subtly shaping them to favor the growth of desirable species. The episode also touches upon the importance of aquatic environments in the Lacandon's subsistence system. These areas, enriched by nutrients leached from the forests and agricultural lands, provide essential protein-rich food sources, including fish, birds, reptiles, mollusks, and turtles. Beyond direct consumption, the hosts describe the Lacandon's use of river snail shells, burned and slated, in the preparation of corn tortillas. This practice not only enhances the digestibility of the corn but also introduces crucial calcium and trace minerals into their diet. The Pet Kot System: Adapting to Challenging Environments: The episode introduces the pet kot, a unique form of woodland modification practiced by the Lacandon in response to challenging environmental conditions. This technique involves creating raised areas within fields by accumulating stones, forming micro-environments that support tall stands of managed trees. These protected ecosystems, often contrasting starkly with the surrounding lower vegetation, provide shade, wind breaks, and enhanced moisture retention, crucial in arid zones where inconsistent rainfall can significantly impact crop yields. The pet kot serves as a testament to the Lacandon's ingenuity and ability to adapt their practices to specific ecological challenges. Volcanic Insights: A Glimpse into Past Practices: The episode points to the volcanic eruption that engulfed the village of Joya de Cerén in El Salvador around 600 AD as a valuable window into past milpa practices. The ashfall preserved the community, revealing extensive fields of corn and cassava, confirming the long-standing importance of these crops in the milpa system. The preservation of home gardens at Joya de Cerén also provides insight into plant placement strategies, with water-sensitive species like peppers and tomatoes clustered near dwellings. Resilience and Adaptation: The Enduring Legacy of the Milpa: The episode concludes by emphasizing the resilience of the milpa system and the Lacandon people, despite centuries of displacement and pressure from external forces. The hosts stress the importance of respecting and learning from the Lacandon's traditional ecological knowledge, recognizing the insights it offers for creating sustainable food systems that nourish both people and the planet. The episode ends with a call for greater awareness and appreciation of the complexities and wisdom embedded within indigenous land management practices like the milpa system. It underscores the need to move beyond simplistic views of these systems, recognizing their dynamic nature and the constant adaptation they require in response to changing environmental and social conditions. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" focuses on the milpa system, a sophisticated agroforestry practice developed by the Lacandon Maya people of eastern Chiapas, Mexico. Hosts Andy and Elliott explore the intricacies of this system, highlighting its resilience, biodiversity, and the profound connection it fosters between humans and the natural world. The episode traces the evolution of the milpa in response to climatic shifts over thousands of years, emphasizing its adaptability and the insights it offers for sustainable land management in the face of ongoing environmental change. A Landscape Shaped by Climate and Human Interaction: The episode begins by setting the stage for understanding the milpa system within its environmental and historical context. The hosts explain how the tropical rainforests of Central America are a relatively recent phenomenon, emerging over the past 10,000 years as the climate shifted from a drier, temperate state to a wetter, warmer one. This transition, influenced by both natural forces and human activities, particularly the introduction of fire and plant domestication, led to the development of diverse ecosystems and the emergence of sophisticated land management practices. The hosts highlight the significant variation in rainfall across the Maya region, with precipitation ranging from a mere 20 inches in the northwest Yucatan Peninsula to a staggering 160 inches in the southern reaches. This diversity of conditions, coupled with distinct wet and dry seasons, creates a complex mosaic of habitats, with wetlands comprising a substantial portion of the landscape. The Milpa: A Symphony of Diversity and Succession: The episode then introduces the milpa itself, describing it as a polyculture field—a tapestry of multiple plant species intentionally cultivated together. While maize reigns supreme in the milpa, as many as 20 to 30 additional species, both planted and naturally regenerating, contribute to its richness. This diversity mimics the surrounding forest ecosystem and ensures a continuous supply of food, materials, and medicines throughout the year. Beyond the Milpa: Stages of Regeneration and Multi-Use Resources: The milpa is not a static entity but rather a dynamic component of a larger cycle of forest succession. After several years of cultivation, the milpa transitions into the akawal stage, characterized by shrubs and bushes. The akawal serves as a source of food, materials, and habitat for wildlife before eventually evolving into secondary forest. This cyclical process, carefully managed by the Lacandon, allows for continuous production while promoting soil regeneration and biodiversity. The episode emphasizes that the Lacandon prioritize clearing land within these regrowth areas rather than venturing into primary forest. This preference, rooted in both practicality and a deep respect for the ancient forests, demonstrates a conscious effort to minimize the impact on mature ecosystems while maximizing efficiency and yield. Clearing regrowth requires significantly less labor than tackling primary forest, further illustrating the practicality of this approach. Harnessing Fire as a Tool for Regeneration: The episode dives into the Lacandon’s masterful use of fire as a tool for land management. They employ a technique known as "wind tending," where specialists control the burn by working against prevailing winds, achieving a low-temperature, even burn that enriches the soil with charcoal and nutrients. This practice acknowledges the inherent nutrient limitations of rainforest soils and provides a critical boost for crop growth. The Spiritual Dimension of Land Stewardship: Importantly, the episode explores the spiritual underpinnings of the Lacandon’s relationship with the land. Their understanding of the natural world is deeply intertwined with their beliefs about morality and reciprocity. They recognize the interconnectedness of human actions and ecological consequences, and their practices reflect a profound respect for the spirits that inhabit the land and the importance of maintaining harmony within the community. Ceremony and the Soul of Maize: The episode highlights the crucial role of ceremony in the milpa cycle. Farmers conduct rituals of petition and thanksgiving, offering prayers and food before clearing, burning, and planting. These ceremonies acknowledge the spiritual dimension of agriculture and emphasize the concept of co-responsibility rather than domination over nature. The Lacandon believe that maize itself possesses a living spirit, the "soul of maize," which must be honored and respected to ensure a successful harvest. The Role of Indicator Species and the Rhythm of Nature: The Lacandon’s intimate knowledge of the forest extends to their use of indicator species to guide planting times. They observe the flowering patterns of specific trees in the surrounding primary forest, recognizing that these blooms signal optimal conditions for various crops. This reliance on natural cues rather than a rigid calendar reveals a deep understanding of ecological cycles and the ability to adapt to annual variations in weather patterns. Layered Tubers and the Efficient Use of Space: The episode culminates in a fascinating description of the Lacandon’s ingenious use of vertical space within the milpa. They cultivate multiple layers of root crops at varying depths, with taro and sweet potatoes occupying the upper layers, maniac deeper down, and yam tubers reaching even further into the earth. This technique optimizes the use of available space, water, and nutrients, showcasing a remarkable understanding of plant interactions and resource partitioning. Community, Collaboration, and Knowledge Sharing: The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of community in maintaining the milpa system. Tasks like clearing, burning, and harvesting are traditionally carried out collaboratively, fostering a spirit of shared responsibility and knowledge transmission across generations. This communal approach contrasts with the individualistic model often associated with modern agriculture and underscores the social and ecological benefits of collective action. The episode leaves listeners with a profound appreciation for the sophistication and resilience of the milpa system. It serves as a powerful reminder that sustainable land management requires a deep understanding of ecological processes, a willingness to adapt to changing conditions, and a profound respect for the interconnectedness of human communities and the natural world. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" features a conversation between host Andy and Aaron Parker, a nurseryman and seed farmer from Edgewood Nursery. They discuss the concept of breeding and domesticating native plants, particularly focusing on their potential as food crops and their role in resilient ecosystems amidst climate change. Exploring the Potential of Underutilized Native Plants: The conversation begins by highlighting the wealth of native plants that offer potential as food sources but remain underutilized or even forgotten. Aaron emphasizes the intersection of perennial vegetables and native plants, noting that many species often cultivated solely for their ecological benefits could also contribute to meeting human food needs. He cites examples like ground nuts (Apios americana) and Illinois bundleflower (Desmanthus illinoisensis) as plants with promising qualities that have been subject to limited or abandoned breeding efforts. The Accessibility Challenge and the Role of Food Culture: The discussion then shifts to the challenge of making these less familiar native foods accessible to a wider audience. Andy acknowledges the need to move beyond simply promoting the historical presence of these plants in the landscape and instead find ways to integrate them into contemporary food culture. Aaron suggests that highlighting the harmony between human food production and ecological benefit could be a compelling approach. He uses common milkweed (Asclepius ceriaca), a plant valued for its role in supporting monarch butterflies, as an example of a species that also offers edible components at various stages. Engaging with innovative chefs and restaurants is also proposed as a way to introduce these novel ingredients and expand culinary possibilities. Backyard Breeding and the First Steps to Domestication: The episode emphasizes the accessibility of plant breeding for even the average backyard gardener. Aaron encourages listeners to cultivate native plants and observe their traits, selecting seeds from individuals that exhibit desirable characteristics, such as exceptional flavor or yield. He draws a parallel to childhood experiments with sunflowers, where selecting the largest seed heads each year leads to a gradual shift in the population's traits. This simple act of selection, repeated over generations, represents the fundamental principle of domestication. Balancing Selection Pressure and Genetic Diversity: Aaron shares his approach to breeding, noting that he prefers making less drastic selections to maintain a broader gene pool and avoid unintended consequences that can arise from pushing a population through a genetic bottleneck. He explains that observing plants over multiple years and in various environmental conditions is crucial, as a plant that thrives in one year might not perform as well under different conditions. The Evolving Relationship Between Humans and Plants: The conversation touches on the delicate balance between domestication and preserving the wild character of native plants. Aaron describes his practice of establishing diverse gene pools from locally sourced material, allowing him to observe and make decisions about whether to maintain the original genetics, select for specific traits, or pursue a split approach where both wild and domesticated populations are preserved. Climate Change and the Urgency of Adaptation: The episode underscores the impact of climate change on plant selection and breeding strategies. Aaron notes the need to consider plants' adaptability to increasingly warmer summers and less predictable winters. He shares his focus on species that can tolerate both extreme cold snaps and extended periods of high temperatures. The example of figs, a traditionally warmer-climate fruit, is discussed, with both Andy and Aaron sharing their experiences with pushing the boundaries of hardiness and exploring the potential for figs to thrive in colder regions in the future. Highlighting Specific Plants and Breeding Goals: Aaron delves into specific native plant species that hold particular interest for him, including: Pawpaws (Asimina triloba): He sees pawpaws as a promising tree crop for a future with hotter summers, noting their ability to withstand brief cold snaps while thriving in warm conditions. Appios (Apios americana): He acknowledges the existing recognition of appios' potential as a food crop and points to the historical evidence of its cultivation by Indigenous peoples. Hickories and Pecans (Carya spp.): He emphasizes the diversity within these nut-bearing trees and the evidence of past human selection, suggesting opportunities to rediscover and enhance desirable traits. Helianthus stromosus (Woodland Sunflower): He describes his experience with breeding this sunflower relative, showcasing the potential to select for more manageable tuber growth habits while maintaining its ecological benefits. The Vision of a Future with Native Food Crops: The episode concludes with a discussion of the long-term vision for integrating these native plants into the food system. While acknowledging the challenges, Aaron expresses optimism about the possibility of these crops becoming a meaningful part of people's diets. He emphasizes the resilience of many of these species and their potential role in creating a more sustainable and ecologically sound food production system. Andy draws a comparison to the craft beer movement, suggesting that connecting native foods to specific places and highlighting their unique connection to the local landscape could enhance their appeal and cultural significance. The Importance of Biodiversity and Specialist Relationships: The conversation concludes by emphasizing the ecological value of native plants, particularly their role in supporting specialized insect species that rely on these long-established relationships. Aaron highlights the contrast between native plants and more recently introduced species, noting that while the latter might provide nectar and pollen, they often lack the intricate co-evolutionary connections that underpin a healthy and resilient ecosystem. Climate Change as a Driver of Selection and Assisted Migration: The final segment addresses the accelerating pace of climate change and its implications for plant selection and management. Aaron acknowledges that certain boreal species currently present in his region might not be viable in the long term. However, he sees an opportunity to assist the migration of species from warmer regions, such as pawpaws and spicebush, that are likely to thrive as the climate shifts. He advocates for a broad approach to planting and observation, allowing natural selection to guide the process while also actively promoting species that show promise for adapting to the changing conditions. Check out Edgewood nursery at: https://edgewood-nursery.com/ Check out the Propaganda by the Seed podcast wherever you get your podcasts! For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/  

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" focuses on the Adena, an ancient Indigenous society that flourished in the Ohio River Valley region of North America around 3,000 years ago. The hosts, Andy and Elliott, discuss the Adena's unique burial practices, their role in the Eastern Agricultural Complex (EAC), and the insights their story offers into sustainable food systems and social organization. A Society Defined by Monumental Burials and Egalitarian Principles: The Adena are best known for their distinctive earthen burial mounds, which served not only as graves but also as monumental structures that reflected their worldview and social bonds. These mounds, often aligned with astronomical events, suggest a sophisticated understanding of the cosmos and a commitment to communal labor and ritual practices. Despite the complexity of these constructions, there is no evidence of a hierarchical social structure within Adena society. The hosts explore the concept of heterarchy, a system where leadership is fluid and situational, based on individual skills and circumstances rather than inherited power or status. Individuals gained temporary authority based on their expertise and accountability to the group, with power shifting and evolving over time. This system ensured that no one individual or group could hold power indefinitely, promoting a more egalitarian and adaptable society. The Adena and the Dawn of Agriculture in Eastern North America: The episode places the Adena within the context of the Eastern Agricultural Complex (EAC), a significant center of early plant domestication in North America. The hosts emphasize that the Adena were not simply passive recipients of domesticated crops but actively participated in the process of selecting and cultivating plants that thrived in their region. Hickory Nuts to Seeds: A Dietary Shift and its Implications: Archaeological evidence reveals a gradual shift in the Adena diet from a reliance on hickory nuts to a more diverse mix of seeds, particularly maygrass. This transition, occurring around 1,000 years ago, coincided with the introduction of corn to the region. Interestingly, corn did not immediately become a staple crop, taking another thousand years to adapt to the northern climate and dominate Adena agriculture. The hosts speculate on the reasons for this dietary shift, considering factors like changing forest composition due to anthropogenic fire, the potential advantages of seed-based crops, and the evolving relationship between the Adena and their environment. Domestication Through Observation and Environmental Manipulation: The episode provides a detailed look at the domestication process, using erect knotweed as an example. This plant naturally produces two seed types: smooth seeds with thin coats that germinate quickly and rough seeds with thicker coats that can survive longer in the seed bank. The hosts explain how the Adena likely observed these traits and, through careful seed selection and the creation of favorable growing conditions, encouraged the dominance of the smooth, faster-growing variety. By understanding the plant's natural adaptations and manipulating their environment, the Adena were able to accelerate the domestication process, potentially reducing the time frame from a thousand years to a few hundred. The Role of Bison and Fire in Shaping the Landscape: The episode introduces the concept of "anthropogenic niches" – ecosystems shaped by human activities. The hosts explain how the Adena, through controlled burning practices, created favorable conditions for fire-tolerant species like black walnut trees, which thrived in the disturbed soils along riverbanks. They also discuss the impact of bison, highlighting recent research that suggests these animals played a significant role in creating early successional habitats where the progenitors of many EAC crops flourished. The presence of bison, along with anthropogenic fire and floodplains, contributed to a dynamic and diverse landscape that supported the Adena's agricultural practices. Rewilding and the Legacy of the Adena: The episode concludes with a reflection on the implications of the Adena story for contemporary discussions about rewilding and sustainable land management. The hosts acknowledge the complexity of these issues, raising questions about what constitutes an "original" ecosystem and whether the eventual decline of the Adena society diminishes the value of their practices. They emphasize the importance of learning from the past and recognizing that human societies and ecosystems are constantly evolving, urging listeners to consider the long-term ecological and social impacts of our actions. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

We talk with Dr. Sophie Chao from the University of Sydney's Department of Anthropology to talk about the evolution of indigenous resistance within Indonesia. What has made indigenous resistance in this region more effective than in many other places in the world, and what can we learn from it elsewhere? Further, how is food used as a tool for colonialism-- what Dr. Chao describes as gastrocolonialism. Dr. Sophie Chao's research investigates the intersections of capitalism, ecology, Indigeneity, health, and justice in the Pacific region. Sophie Chao previously worked for Indigenous rights organization Forest Peoples Programme in Indonesia. Her current DECRA project explores the diverse perceptions, practices, and knowledges surrounding human-kangaroo relations in Australia. For more information, please visit www.morethanhumanworlds.com. For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/       Key Words: Indigenous Rights, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Government, Corporate Interests, Displacement, Environmental Degradation, Activism, Legal Reform, Consent, Land Projects, Equitable Participation, Indigenous Peoples, Legal Battles, Grassroots Resistance, International Mechanisms, Customary Laws, West Papua, Gastrocolonialism, Traditional Foodways, Ecosystems, Monocrop Plantations, Subsistence Practices, Deforestation, Introduced Foods, Resilience, Land Management, Ethical Dilemmas, Colonization, Food Sovereignty, Cultural Transformation, Generational Conflicts, Indigenous Activists, Forests, Multi-Species Ecosystems, Consumer Awareness, Structural Reforms, Anthropologists, Colonial Legacies, Ethical Storytelling, Allyship, Football, Wisdom, Research, Believe Network, Rate, Review, Subscribe

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" focuses on the Dayak people of Borneo and their intricate forest management system known as "shifting cultivation." The hosts, Andy and Elliott, discuss the system's longevity, resilience, and adaptation to the challenging tropical environment. They also explore the threats posed by deforestation, mining, and the misapplication of modern agricultural concepts like permaculture. Shifting Cultivation: A Sustainable Approach to Tropical Agriculture The episode clarifies that "Dayak" is an umbrella term encompassing over 200 distinct tribes scattered across Borneo. While practices vary, the common thread is their sustainable management of hilly, upland forests for thousands of years. Shifting cultivation is central to their approach. This involves clearing small plots of land, cultivating crops like rice for a few years, and then allowing the forest to regenerate while moving on to a new plot. This system is not simply about planting and harvesting. The Dayak people have a deep understanding of the ecological processes at play, carefully selecting plots based on soil suitability and natural signs, and conducting ceremonies to acknowledge the forest's life-giving role. The burning of vegetation is used to quickly return nutrients to the typically poor tropical soils, making them suitable for short-term cultivation. A Diverse and Interconnected System The Dayak forest farming system extends far beyond rice cultivation. It is characterized by: Dibbling: A planting technique that places rice seeds below the saline topsoil, improving germination rates. Intercropping: Planting a variety of crops like cassava, bananas, and sweet potatoes alongside rice, mimicking the natural diversity of the forest and providing multiple food sources. Pest Management: Utilizing natural deterrents like specific flowers to confuse pests and companion planting to protect valuable crops from rodents. Family Rice Varieties: Each family cultivates its own unique rice variety passed down through generations, representing their connection to their ancestry and the land. Beyond the Rice Fields: Managing Forest Succession After the rice fields are left fallow, the Dayak people actively manage the forest regeneration process. They understand the different stages of forest succession and utilize each stage for specific resources, including: Early Succession: Harvesting fast-growing species for firewood, charcoal, and building materials. Mid-Succession: Gathering edible bamboo shoots, rattan, and fruits from emerging fruit trees. Late Succession: Utilizing mature forests for hunting, collecting fruits from species like durian trees, and allowing the ecosystem to return to its primary forest state. This cyclical approach ensures a continuous supply of diverse food and materials while maintaining the overall health of the forest ecosystem. The Importance of Community and Shared Resources The Dayak people's communal living in longhouses fosters collaboration and sharing. This extends to land use and resource management, with individuals specializing in managing different types of plots, such as fruit gardens or rattan plantations, based on their skills and interests. This communal approach emphasizes reciprocity and ensures the community's collective well-being. Modern Threats to a Traditional Way of Life While the Dayak system has proven resilient over millennia, the 20th and 21st centuries have brought new challenges: Deforestation: Large-scale logging operations, fueled by demand for timber and driven by unsustainable policies, have devastated vast swathes of Borneo's forests. Mining: The extraction of gold and other minerals, often controlled by foreign corporations, has resulted in environmental damage from cyanide leaching and the dumping of toxic waste. Plantation Forests: The introduction of fast-growing, non-native tree species has disrupted natural ecosystems and depleted soil fertility. These practices threaten the delicate balance of the Dayak system and the livelihoods of the indigenous communities who rely on it. Reclaiming Traditional Knowledge in the Face of Climate Change As the detrimental effects of unsustainable practices become increasingly evident, there is a growing recognition of the value of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). The hosts express hope that this newfound interest goes beyond lip service and leads to genuine efforts to learn from and support indigenous communities in managing their lands sustainably. Key Takeaways: The episode highlights the Dayak people's deep understanding of their environment and their ability to create a complex, sustainable system that provides for their needs while maintaining ecological integrity. The Dayak system stands as a model for sustainable land management, particularly in challenging tropical environments. It underscores the importance of: Adapting to local conditions: Utilizing specific practices suited to the unique challenges of tropical soils and climate. Valuing diversity: Embracing a variety of plant and animal species to enhance ecosystem resilience. Prioritizing long-term sustainability: Considering the ecological impacts of resource extraction and management decisions. Respecting traditional knowledge: Recognizing and learning from indigenous communities' deep understanding of their environments. The episode emphasizes the urgency of addressing the threats posed by deforestation, mining, and unsustainable agricultural practices to preserve the Dayak way of life and protect the invaluable ecological services provided by Borneo's forests. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

Join us as we engage with the insightful Dr. Lynn Hunsinger, a distinguished authority in range ecology and management from the University of California, Berkeley. Dr. Hunsinger illuminates our understanding of the intriguing connections between California's oak woodlands and Spain's Dehesas. Through her expertise and reflections from her book, "Mediterranean Oak Woodland Working Landscapes," we explore the cultural and ecological dimensions of these Mediterranean landscapes. Our conversation reveals collaborative research efforts that span continents, shedding light on the management tactics and inherent resilience of these vital ecosystems. Our journey takes us through the historical and contemporary use of land in California and Spain, drawing parallels and contrasts in their ecological narratives. From the impact of natural water courses to the significant role of indigenous land management, we uncover how these practices have shaped the oak woodlands. We also delve into agricultural challenges and triumphs, reflecting on the delicate balance necessary for sustainable rangeland management. Together with Dr. Hunsinger, we examine how these landscapes have been molded by past practices and what lessons they hold for the future, particularly in the face of climate change. We then navigate the intricate world of grazing practices, spotlighting the distinctive approach of acorn-fed pigs in Spain compared to California's agricultural dynamics. Our discussion pivots to the implications of non-native grasses on local biodiversity and the potential of historical management techniques, such as grazing and fire, to restore native plant environments. In contemplating the future, we weigh the resilience of oak woodlands against the challenges posed by modern ecological pressures. This episode promises a rich tapestry of insights and revelations for anyone interested in the sustainable management of our natural landscapes. For more of Dr. Huntsinger's work, visit the website for the Huntsinger Lab: https://nature.berkeley.edu/huntsingerlab-wp/ For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Range Ecology, Management, California, Oak Woodlands, Spain, Dehesas, Mediterranean Landscapes, Collaborative Research, Indigenous Land Management, Sustainable Rangeland Management, Grazing Practices, Acorn-fed Pigs, Non-Native Grasses, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Water Availability, Native Species, Grassland Management, Dining, Fashion, Chicken Big Mac  

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" takes listeners on a journey to the Iberian Peninsula to explore the Spanish Dehesa, a 3,000-year-old agroforestry system that integrates livestock, oak trees, and grasslands in a sustainable way. The hosts, Andy and Elliott, uncover the fascinating history and ecological dynamics of this system, highlighting its resilience in the face of environmental challenges and its potential relevance for addressing climate change. Understanding the Dehesa: A Unique Agroforestry System The Dehesa is characterized by a low tree density, consisting primarily of holm oak and cork oak trees, scattered across open grasslands. This unique structure allows for a variety of land uses, including: Livestock Grazing: The grasslands provide fodder for sheep, cattle, and the famous Iberian pigs, known for producing high-quality ham. Acorn Production: The oak trees are managed to maximize acorn production, which serves as a crucial food source for the pigs. Crop Cultivation: Cereal crops are often grown in rotation with fallow periods, supplementing livestock feed and providing food for human consumption. Forestry Products: While not the primary focus, the Dehesa also yields valuable forestry products like cork, firewood, and charcoal. The low soil fertility of the region, particularly in terms of phosphorus and calcium, makes traditional farming methods unsustainable. The Dehesa system, however, thrives in this environment by prioritizing efficiency and diversification, utilizing available resources with minimal inputs. Ecological Benefits and Resilience The Dehesa system offers a range of ecological benefits, contributing to biodiversity, soil health, and water management. Biodiversity Hotspot: The mosaic of habitats within the Dehesa supports a rich diversity of plant and animal species, including several globally threatened species that rely on this unique landscape. Soil Health: Livestock grazing and the decomposition of organic matter from trees and grasses enhance soil fertility, improve soil structure, and increase carbon storage capacity. Water Management: The oak trees play a crucial role in regulating water cycles, reducing evapotranspiration and improving soil moisture retention. This system has demonstrated remarkable resilience over centuries, even during prolonged droughts. However, recent shifts in management practices have introduced vulnerabilities and led to a decline in the health and productivity of the Dehesa. The Importance of Traditional Practices and Transhumance The episode emphasizes the vital role of traditional management practices, including transhumance, in maintaining the Dehesa's ecological balance. Transhumance: This seasonal movement of livestock between lowlands and uplands allowed for optimal grazing patterns, prevented overgrazing, and facilitated nutrient cycling. Oak Tree Regeneration: Humans have traditionally played a crucial role in ensuring the regeneration of oak trees, a process that has become increasingly challenging in recent decades. The decline of transhumance, coupled with the replacement of sheep with cattle and the increasing abandonment of traditional grazing practices, has resulted in a cascade of negative effects: Reduced Soil Fertility: The lack of livestock grazing has led to a decline in organic matter and nutrient cycling, impacting soil health and productivity. Loss of Oak Trees: The "seca," a sudden die-off of oak trees caused by fungal disease and exacerbated by environmental stress, further threatens the integrity of the Dehesa. The hosts draw a parallel between the Dehesa's vulnerability to changes in management practices and the concept of "brittleness" discussed in previous episodes on silvopasture and multi-species grazing. Historical Evolution and the Impact of Capitalism The episode explores the historical evolution of the Dehesa, tracing its roots back to the first millennium AD. Despite periods of political and social upheaval, the system remained relatively stable until the rise of capitalism in the 18th and 19th centuries. Merino Wool Boom: The introduction of Merino sheep, known for their fine wool, in the 13th century, led to the rise of a powerful wool-producing guild called the Mesta. The Mesta's influence shaped land management practices and economic structures, favoring sheep grazing over other uses. Privatization of Land: Reforms in the 19th century resulted in the privatization of vast communal lands, disrupting traditional management practices and leading to the fragmentation of the Dehesa landscape. The episode highlights the destructive impact of capitalism on the Dehesa, as short-term profits and the pursuit of economic efficiency have overridden the long-term sustainability and ecological balance of the system. Lessons for a Changing Climate The episode concludes by drawing connections between the challenges facing the Dehesa and the broader context of climate change. The hosts argue that understanding the Dehesa's history and ecological dynamics offers valuable lessons for building resilient food systems in the face of a changing climate. Importance of Diversity and Adaptation: The Dehesa's ability to provide multiple products and services within a single landscape highlights the value of diversification and adaptation in creating resilient agricultural systems. Balancing Economic and Ecological Goals: The Dehesa's decline serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing economic efficiency over ecological sustainability. Rediscovering Ancestral Knowledge: The episode suggests that traditional management practices, often overlooked in the pursuit of modernization, hold valuable insights for building sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. The hosts emphasize that while replicating the Dehesa system exactly may not be feasible in other regions, its principles of integrated land use, livestock management, and oak tree stewardship can inspire innovative approaches to food production and land management in a changing world. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/