The Poor Prole’s Almanac

In this episode, we talk with author and podcast host Peter Michael Bauer about rewilding, rebuilding our relationship with our local ecology, and our role as white people on colonized lands, especially when we want to rekindle these relationships with nature?   Check out the North American Rewilding Conference at http://www.rewilding.com/   Peter's book & classes are available at:  https://www.rewildportland.com   Peter's social media on Instagram is @PeterMichaelBauer   Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac

In this episode, we chat with farmer and author Nigel Palmer about KNF, JADAM, and sourcing local ingredients. How do we re-localize these practices that make sense, and what other tools are we not fully utilizing?   Nigel's book& classes are available at:  https://www.nigel-palmer.com/   Nigel's social media on Instagram is @regenerativegrowersguide   Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac  

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" features a conversation with Marco, a proponent of natural farming practices and the owner of Microbes by Marco (@Marco_is_growing) . The discussion centers on the application of Korean Natural Farming (KNF) and Jadam techniques, emphasizing soil building, experimentation, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Beyond the White IMO: Embracing Diversity in Microorganisms The conversation begins by addressing a common misconception in IMO (Indigenous Microorganism) collection. While the traditional goal is to harvest white, fluffy IMO colonies, Marco advocates for embracing the diversity of microorganisms present, including those with different colors. He believes that focusing solely on white IMO limits the potential benefits of a wider range of microbes and does not reflect the natural diversity found in ecosystems. Marco acknowledges the preference for white, fuzzy mycelium, which indicates the presence of bacteria and fungi that break down organic matter. However, he emphasizes that other colors, such as reds, greens, yellows, blues, and purples, represent different microbial communities that can contribute to soil health. He argues that selecting only white IMO reflects a human bias toward cleanliness and order, while nature thrives on diversity. Marco suggests that different fungi may offer varying benefits depending on the season and plant growth stage, emphasizing the need for further research in this area. Experimentation and Innovation in Natural Farming Both Marco and Andy highlight the importance of experimentation in natural farming, recognizing that the field is relatively new and lacks extensive research compared to conventional agriculture. They discuss the potential for discovering new applications for different IMO collections and other innovative practices, like using fish tank water as a microbial inoculant. Marco shares his experience using fish tank water, rich in aquatic microorganisms, as a beneficial input for his plants. He explains that he noticed similarities between the microbes found in his soil and those in his aquarium water, suggesting a symbiotic relationship between terrestrial and aquatic microbial communities. Andy connects this concept to his own practice of using silt from his duck ponds to fertilize fruit and nut trees. The conversation emphasizes the importance of observation, intuition, and a willingness to try new things in natural farming, drawing inspiration from traditional practices and recognizing that many beneficial techniques were likely discovered through trial and error in the past. Matching Inputs to Plant Needs and Growth Stages Marco explains his approach to choosing inputs, emphasizing the need to match them with the specific growth stage of the plant. He rejects the rigid schedules often promoted by commercial fertilizer companies and instead advocates for a more intuitive approach that observes the plant's needs and responds accordingly. During the vegetative stage, Marco prioritizes leafy JLFs (fermented plant juices), like comfrey, which are rich in nitrogen and growth hormones. As plants transition to flowering, he incorporates more fruit-based FPJs and KNF inputs, like sugar, to support the plant's increased carbohydrate demands. Marco also emphasizes the importance of monitoring the strength of his feeds using EC meters to avoid burning plants. The Potential for Scaling Up Natural Farming Practices The episode explores the possibility of scaling up natural farming practices to feed a larger population. While acknowledging the challenges, both Marco and Andy express optimism about the potential impact of widespread adoption. Marco envisions a system where communities collect organic waste and invest in large-scale JLF and IMO production, reducing landfill waste and enriching local soils. Andy suggests that even a quarter of households composting and recycling could significantly impact resource conservation and environmental health. They highlight the economic potential of natural farming inputs, such as KNF-based landscaping fertilizers, and the vast environmental benefits of reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. The conversation concludes with a hopeful outlook on the future of natural farming, emphasizing its accessibility, connection to human history, and potential to create a more sustainable and equitable food system. Adapting Natural Farming Practices to Indoor Growing The discussion shifts to the unique challenges and considerations of indoor growing, particularly adapting natural farming principles to a controlled environment. Marco shares his methods for creating a thriving living soil ecosystem within an indoor grow space. He emphasizes the importance of replicating the layered structure of natural soil horizons, including a gravel and sand filter base, an organic topsoil layer, and a clay-rich organic matter layer with a companion crop. Marco advocates for inoculating the indoor soil with a diverse range of IMOs and beneficial organisms, like isopods, worms, springtails, and mites, to create a balanced soil food web. He allows the soil to balance itself for several weeks before planting, using beneficial bacteria like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control pests. Reducing Reliance on External Inputs: Experimenting with Alternatives Marco discusses his efforts to reduce reliance on external inputs, particularly in IMO production. He plans to experiment with using ground cannabis stalks as a grain substitute in his IMO 3 production, reducing the need to purchase grain. For IMO 5, which requires a high-nitrogen source, he successfully utilized fermented comfrey solids as a manure substitute. Andy shares his experience substituting brown rice flour for sugar in his microbial teas, finding it to be an effective alternative. This exchange highlights the ongoing search for locally sourced, sustainable alternatives to conventional inputs in natural farming practices. Addressing Race and Identity in the Natural Farming Movement The episode concludes with a discussion about the intersection of race, identity, and the natural farming movement. Andy raises concerns about the potential for overlap between natural farming philosophies and problematic ideologies, like "blood and soil" rhetoric. Marco acknowledges the history of injustice in agriculture, particularly the displacement and disenfranchisement of minority farmers due to the practices of large-scale industrial agriculture. He views natural farming as a pathway to liberation and empowerment, offering a low-cost, accessible alternative to the chemical-intensive practices that have often marginalized smaller and minority farmers. Marco emphasizes the educational and community-building aspects of natural farming, believing that it can create a more equitable and inclusive agricultural landscape. Check out Marco on IG at @Marco_is_growing and @VirgininiaGrown Also check out his work at: www.microbesbymarco.com 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" introduces listeners to Jadam, a Korean natural farming method emphasizing soil building and microbial diversity. The hosts, Andy and Elliott, contrast Jadam with Korean Natural Farming (KNF), exploring the nuances and benefits of each approach while emphasizing the importance of adapting these practices to local conditions and personal preferences. Challenging Conventional Notions of "Good" and "Bad" Bacteria Jadam distinguishes itself from KNF by advocating for a holistic view of the soil microbiome. While KNF often focuses on cultivating specific "good" bacteria, Jadam embraces the concept of microbial diversity, recognizing the vital roles of both beneficial and potentially harmful microorganisms in a balanced ecosystem. Diversity as the Key: Jadam argues that attempting to eliminate so-called "bad" bacteria disrupts the natural balance and can lead to unintended consequences. Nature's Complexity: The hosts point out that our understanding of soil microbiology is limited, and that focusing solely on a few known "good" bacteria oversimplifies the intricate web of interactions within the soil. Self-Regulation through Diversity: Jadam proposes that a diverse microbial community, including pathogens in small amounts, can self-regulate and contribute to a healthier and more resilient ecosystem. Rethinking the Role of Sugar and Anaerobic Activity Jadam diverges from KNF in its approach to using sugar and fostering anaerobic activity. While KNF frequently utilizes brown sugar to extract nutrients and encourage microbial growth, Jadam suggests that excessive sugar can acidify the soil and potentially lead to disease outbreaks. The Role of Anaerobics: Jadam acknowledges the importance of anaerobic processes in nutrient cycling, arguing that while aerobic fermentation may destroy some vitamins and amino acids, anaerobic digestion can make nutrients more accessible. Fermented Foods as an Analogy: The hosts draw a parallel to fermented foods, which undergo anaerobic fermentation to increase nutrient availability and digestibility. Sugar's Potential Drawbacks: The episode explores the possibility that adding large amounts of sugar to IMO or food production could hinder the natural decomposition process. Practical Jadam Techniques: Building Soil and Managing Inputs The hosts detail several key Jadam techniques, including methods for creating microbial solutions, fertilizers, and pest control solutions. They emphasize the simplicity and accessibility of these practices, encouraging listeners to experiment and adapt them to their specific needs. Jadam Microorganism Solution (JMS): The episode provides a recipe for JMS, a microbial inoculant similar to KNF's IMO, but created without brown sugar. This solution utilizes readily available materials like potatoes, leaf litter, and dechlorinated water to cultivate a diverse range of microorganisms. Jadam Liquid Fertilizer (JLF): JLF is another simple and effective input created by fermenting plant material in water. The hosts highlight the flexibility of this method, noting that it can be adapted to various crops and even used to create water-soluble calcium and other mineral solutions. Jadam Herbal Solution (JHS): This natural pesticide is made by boiling and extracting compounds from plants that repel or deter pests. The recipe provided utilizes Jerusalem artichoke, a readily available and easily grown plant. Embracing the Long-Term Vision of Jadam The episode concludes by emphasizing the long-term benefits and philosophical underpinnings of Jadam. The hosts highlight its focus on soil building as a foundational step and its alignment with anti-capitalist principles. Building Soil First: Jadam emphasizes the importance of creating a healthy and diverse soil ecosystem before focusing on plant growth. Challenging Capitalism: The hosts point out that Jadam's creator, Cho, advocates for sharing this knowledge freely and criticizes the commodification of natural farming practices. Balancing KNF and Jadam Throughout the episode, the hosts share their personal experiences and preferences, blending KNF and Jadam techniques to suit their individual needs and goals. They encourage listeners to experiment with both approaches, finding the balance that works best for them. Overall, this episode offers a detailed introduction to the principles and practices of Jadam, emphasizing its focus on microbial diversity, the responsible use of inputs like sugar, and the importance of a long-term perspective on soil health and natural farming. The hosts encourage a spirit of experimentation and adaptation, recognizing that both KNF and Jadam offer valuable tools for creating more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. 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 Korean Natural Farming (KNF), a set of agricultural techniques that emphasize building soil health through the use of beneficial microorganisms and natural inputs. The hosts, Elliott and Andy, discuss the principles and practical applications of KNF, highlighting the importance of understanding the scientific basis for these methods. Lactobacillus: A Powerhouse Microbe for Soil and Plant Health The episode begins with a deep dive into lactobacillus, a beneficial bacteria crucial to KNF practices. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) like lactobacillus are known for their ability to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. They play a significant role in food fermentation and are generally recognized as safe for human consumption. Benefits of LAB in Soil: In the context of soil health, LAB offer several advantages. They can improve soil aeration by creating pore spaces, eliminate foul odors by breaking down ammonia, and protect plants from pathogens by lowering the pH on leaf surfaces. Making LAB at Home: The hosts provide a step-by-step guide for culturing LAB using simple ingredients like rice water and milk. The process involves attracting naturally occurring lactobacillus, feeding them with milk, and separating the resulting LAB-rich liquid from the cheese-like curd. The Role of Sugar in KNF The episode then explores the often-misunderstood role of sugar in KNF. While some may view sugar as an unhealthy ingredient, the hosts explain its crucial function in extracting nutrients and promoting microbial activity. Sugar's Functions in KNF: Sugar serves multiple purposes: (1) it creates osmotic pressure to draw out nutrients and hormones from plant material, (2) it selectively filters beneficial microorganisms, (3) it facilitates anaerobic fermentation and the production of alcohol and vinegar, (4) it provides food for the microbial community, (5) it acts as a source of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, and (6) it can be used for super saturation to preserve products. Types of Sugar: Different types of sugar vary in their moisture content and nutritional value. The hosts recommend using full-spectrum evaporated sugars like jaggery or brown sugar, which offer a balance of low moisture content and beneficial minerals. Creating Fermented Plant and Fruit Juices (FPJ/FFJ) The episode provides detailed instructions on how to create fermented plant and fruit juices (FPJ/FFJ), essential inputs in KNF. Harvesting and Preparation: The process involves harvesting plant or fruit material early in the morning to capture maximum nutrient density, chopping it into small pieces, and mixing it with an equal weight of brown sugar. Fermentation: The mixture is then packed into a jar with a breathable lid and allowed to ferment in a dark place for several days. The resulting liquid, rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms, is then drained and stored for use. Matching FPJ/FFJ to Plant Needs: The hosts emphasize the importance of selecting plant materials based on the specific needs of the plants being grown. Using materials from the same species or those with similar nutrient profiles can provide targeted benefits. Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO): Harnessing Local Microbial Diversity The episode concludes with an exploration of indigenous microorganisms (IMO) and their importance in KNF. What are IMOs? IMOs refer to the diverse community of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and other microorganisms that inhabit a specific location. Collecting and Propagating IMOs: The hosts outline a five-step process for collecting, culturing, and propagating IMOs. Benefits of IMOs: Utilizing locally sourced IMOs allows farmers to tap into the unique microbial adaptations of their specific environment, promoting a more balanced and resilient ecosystem. Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of KNF principles and practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding the science behind these techniques and encouraging experimentation and adaptation to local 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 abiotic aspects of Korean Natural Farming (KNF), a holistic approach to agriculture that emphasizes soil health and ecological balance. Hosts Andy and Elliott, continuing their exploration of regenerative farming techniques, guide listeners through the principles and practices of KNF, specifically those relating to the utilization of non-living materials to enhance soil fertility. The Foundations of KNF: A Focus on Soil Biology The episode begins by establishing the fundamental principle of KNF: the importance of soil biology in nutrient cycling and plant health. The hosts explain that while minerals are essential for plant growth, they often exist in the soil in forms that are inaccessible to plants. The role of soil microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and nematodes, is to break down these complex minerals into simpler, plant-available forms. KNF seeks to accelerate this natural process, increasing the availability of nutrients and promoting a thriving soil ecosystem. Accelerating Mineralization: The Role of Abiotic Inputs The episode then moves on to discuss the use of various non-living materials, or abiotic inputs, to enhance soil mineralization. These materials, often byproducts of other processes or readily available natural resources, provide a source of essential nutrients that can be readily broken down by soil microbes. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the specific mineral needs of the soil and matching them with appropriate abiotic inputs. Making Minerals Bioavailable: KNF Techniques The hosts provide detailed explanations of several KNF techniques for creating water-soluble minerals, including: Water-Soluble Calcium (WSCA): Created by grilling and crushing eggshells, then steeping them in vinegar. This process breaks down the calcium carbonate in the shells, making the calcium readily available to plants. The hosts highlight that a small amount of WSCA can be diluted and used as a foliar spray or soil drench over a large area. Water-Soluble Calcium Phosphate: Made from animal bones using the same process as WSCA. This provides a source of both calcium and phosphorus, essential nutrients for plant growth and development. The hosts acknowledge that while this technique is commonly used in KNF, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. Water-Soluble Potassium: Extracted from thick, green plant stalks, such as tobacco, sunflower, or cannabis. The stalks are broken into small pieces and soaked in water for a week, releasing potassium into the solution. This solution is then diluted and applied to plants. The hosts emphasize the importance of potassium in regulating plant processes, such as water movement, nutrient transport, and enzyme activation. Beyond the Basics: Other Abiotic Inputs The episode explores other abiotic inputs used in KNF, including: Rock Dust: The hosts explain that rock dust can provide a wide range of trace minerals that are often lacking in depleted soils. They recommend using a local geological survey map to identify suitable rock types and suggest sourcing rock dust from nearby quarries, which often have excess material available for free. They emphasize that rock dust mineralization is a slow process, similar to the application of lime, and requires patience to see results. Silts: The hosts discuss the ancient practice of using silts, rich in nitrogen and beneficial bacteria, as a soil amendment. They caution about over-harvesting silts from sensitive ecosystems and recommend soil testing to ensure the absence of heavy metals. Clays: The hosts explain that adding clay to sandy soils can improve their water and nutrient retention capacity. They introduce the concept of cation exchange capacity (CEC), which measures the soil's ability to hold positively charged ions (cations) essential for plant nutrition. They explain that clay particles and organic matter have negatively charged sites that attract and hold these cations, preventing them from leaching out of the soil. Seawater: The hosts highlight the potential of diluted seawater as a source of trace minerals. They recommend a 50:1 dilution ratio and suggest applying it to soil, pastures, or even directly to plants. They mention that additional details on using seawater will be available on their YouTube channel. Sea Salt: The hosts recommend harvesting sea salt for its rich mineral content, contrasting it with mined salt, which may lack certain micronutrients. Seaweed and Fish Byproducts: The hosts briefly mention the use of seaweed and fish byproducts, such as fish amino acids, as valuable sources of nutrients. They promise to cover these in more detail in future episodes and on their YouTube channel. Fish Amino Acid (FAA): A Nitrogen-Rich Fertilizer The episode provides a detailed explanation of creating Fish Amino Acid (FAA) using fish byproducts and brown sugar. This process, involving fermentation over several months, breaks down the fish protein, yielding a liquid rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and other nutrients. The hosts compare the nitrogen content of FAA to that of mulberry leaves, both being high-protein sources that release nitrogen upon decomposition. Looking Ahead: Biotic Inputs and Further Exploration The episode concludes by setting the stage for the next episode, which will focus on the biotic aspects of KNF, including the use of indigenous microorganisms (IMOs) and fermented plant extracts. The hosts acknowledge the complexity of these topics and the abundance of acronyms in KNF literature, promising to provide clear explanations and guidance for listeners. They emphasize that while KNF techniques may seem unusual, they offer a valuable approach to restoring soil health and creating more sustainable and productive agricultural systems. 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/

In this episode, we chat with 3 Streams Farm's Shana Hanson about the diversity of uses of harvesting leaves and needles to feed livestock. What's the history of these practices and why is it so hard to learn about it?    Check out Shana's work at 3 Streams Farm: https://3streamsfarmbelfastme.blogspot.com/p/tree-fodder-info.html If you'd like to support Shana's research, reach out at shanahanson@gmail.com     Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac    

In this episode, we chat with 3 Streams Farm's Shana Hanson about the diversity of uses of harvesting leaves and needles to feed livestock. What's the history of these practices and why is it so hard to learn about it?    Check out Shana's work at 3 Streams Farm: https://3streamsfarmbelfastme.blogspot.com/p/tree-fodder-info.html If you'd like to support Shana's research, reach out at shanahanson@gmail.com     Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac      

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac", hosted by Andy and Elliott, is about using tree leaves as livestock feed, a practice known as tree hay or tree fodder. It picks up on themes from previous episodes about silvopasture, coppicing, and pollarding. The episode begins with the hosts bantering about eating giraffe necks. Nutritional Value of Tree Hay The hosts discuss the nutritional value of tree hay, noting that the digestibility of leaves is less impacted by age than that of grasses and forbs. They explain that a mature tree can produce a significant amount of dried leaves annually, far exceeding the dry matter produced by a comparable area of grass. This highlights the potential of tree hay to supplement or even replace traditional hay, especially during times of drought or when pasture availability is limited. Harvesting and Storage Techniques The episode explores various techniques for harvesting and storing tree hay. Listeners learn that harvesting time can be influenced by factors such as tree health, desired regrowth, and intended use of the tree. The hosts emphasize the importance of leaving sufficient branches for the tree to recover and avoid over-harvesting, especially during the wet season when trees are more susceptible to disease. They describe different methods for drying and curing tree hay, including hanging branches in bundles and storing them in a dry, well-ventilated area. Integrating Tree Hay into Grazing Systems The hosts discuss the practical aspects of incorporating tree hay into a grazing system. They advocate for a mixed approach, using tree hay as a supplement to traditional pasture and incorporating a variety of tree species. They point out that some animals, like sheep and goats, are better suited to consuming tree hay than others, such as pigs and chickens. They also explain that the way tree hay is fed can impact its consumption. For instance, livestock may be less likely to eat leaves that have fallen into grazed grass, so keeping the branches upright or offering the hay in a new pasture can improve utilization. Tree Species for Fodder and Their Unique Benefits The episode provides examples of various tree species suitable for fodder, highlighting their unique characteristics and benefits: Black Locust: High in protein, nitrogen-fixing, improves soil quality. Willow: Fast-growing, digestible, high tannin content helps reduce parasite load. Poplar: Similar to willow but without the tannins, high in biomass. Mulberry: Highly digestible, high protein content, produces edible fruit, suitable for both polygastric and monogastric animals. Connecting Tree Hay to Other Silvopasture Practices The hosts link tree hay harvesting to other silvopasture techniques like coppicing and pollarding. They explain that these practices can work together synergistically, providing both fodder and timber while promoting tree health and regeneration. The discussion raises the question of whether harvesting tree hay negatively impacts timber production, but the hosts acknowledge a lack of conclusive research on the topic. The Importance of Experimentation and Observation Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the need for experimentation and observation when implementing tree hay practices. They acknowledge that much of the knowledge about tree fodder has been lost and encourage listeners to rediscover and adapt these techniques to their specific needs and contexts. Overall Takeaway The episode provides a comprehensive overview of tree hay, covering its nutritional value, harvesting and storage methods, integration into grazing systems, and species selection. While acknowledging the challenges and knowledge gaps, the hosts encourage listeners to explore this ancient practice as a sustainable and potentially valuable component of their silvopasture systems. 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/

Part 2: We chat with mark Krawczyk, the author of the forthcoming book "Coppice Agroforestry: Tending Trees for Product, Profit, and Woodland Ecology", which I've been waiting for the past half decade, but is slated for early 2022.  We discuss the role of coppicing in the modern world, tending to landscapes within the scope of what their capacity is, and much more! Check out Mark's work at: http://www.coppiceagroforestry.com/ https://www.keylinevermont.com/ http://www.rivenwoodcrafts.com/     Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac