The Poor Prole’s Almanac (The Poor Prole’s Alamanac, Bleav)

Giselle Rodriguez, the inspiring co-founder and executive director of Illinois Workers in Action (IWA), joins us to share her journey into advocacy. Motivated by her mother's experience with an ICE audit, Giselle discusses the mission of IWA, an organization committed to educating workers about their rights and addressing workplace issues. Our conversation reveals crucial distinctions between administrative and judicial warrants and why this knowledge is vital for undocumented migrants to shield themselves from unjust treatment.

We also explore the practical resources available for individuals and families in Illinois potentially facing ICE interactions. Discover how tools like the ICE detainee locator website can help families stay connected with detained loved ones and learn best practices for ensuring workplace safety and privacy. Understand your rights to remain silent and the importance of avoiding false documents, while also preparing for potential detainment by securing legal protections and short-term guardianship arrangements for children.

As we examine the broader context of ICE's actions during the Trump administration, we scrutinize the aggressive tactics used, their impact on civil rights, and the moral implications for our nation. Through the voices of passionate activists and community leaders, we challenge prevailing media narratives and highlight the power of collective action. Join us as we celebrate the strength of community activism and explore how online platforms can be powerful tools in the fight for justice and equality.

To learn more, follow @ILworkersinaction

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: https://breadandrosespress.com/

For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

 

Key words:

ICE Operations, Immigration, Trump, Chicago, Transparency, Vigilance, Unity, Diversity, Dignity, Justice, Guantanamo Bay, Lakin-Riley Act, Suburban Response, Bolingbrook, Naperville, Protests, Resilience, Activism, Public Health, Politics, Civic Engagement, Nonprofit, State Politics, Solidarity, Adversity, COVID-19, Immigrant Communities

Ever wondered why certain berries appear in folklore and medicine while others are forgotten in the underbrush? Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the elderberry, a plant that has been quietly thriving from the icy reaches of northern Canada to the sunlit coasts of Florida. Known for its tenacity and resilience, the elderberry has become a symbol of nature’s durability. This episode takes a stroll through the history and cultural importance of the American elderberry, exploring its role in indigenous diets and its surprising rise to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic as a natural remedy.

The episode continues with a curious blend of nostalgia and urgency, encouraging listeners to reconnect with traditional food practices. We discuss how societal norms have distanced us from the sources of our food and the psychological barriers that make imperfection unpalatable. By sharing personal tales of foraging, we underscore the value of passing down these skills to future generations. Focusing on maintaining a mutualistic relationship with the land, we delve into the intricate connections between people and plants, illustrated by age-old techniques for preserving the humble elderberry.

Rounding off our exploration, we delve into the cultivation world, spotlighting unique elderberry cultivars like the Bob Gordon variety. Listeners gain insights into the cultivation art and understand how these native fruits hold the potential to enrich American landscapes. We navigate the challenges and triumphs of growing and harvesting elderberries, revealing the hidden potential of these often-overlooked berries. Whether you're an avid gardener or simply berry-curious, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the elderberry's role in our ecosystems, past and present.

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/

Key Words:

Elderberry, Cultural Significance, Resilience, Adaptability, Traditional Food Sources, Indigenous Communities, COVID-19, Pandemic, Disconnect from Nature, Cultivation, Harvesting Techniques, Cultivars, Foraging, Preserving, Traditional Skills, Mutualistic Relationship, Landscape, Archaeological Evidence, Breeding History, Research, Bob Gordon Variety, Challenges, Benefits, Agroecology, Merchandise, Discounts, Patreon, Substack, Porpralscom

In this compelling episode of The Port Proles Almanac, we delve into the intricate dynamics of political activism surrounding the upcoming Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago. From the grassroots struggles of the Coalition to March on the DNC to the bureaucratic hurdles in securing protest permits, we unpack the multifaceted challenges activists face. Featuring an insightful conversation with Faayani, spokesperson for the coalition, and member of the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, we explore the group's intersectional advocacy, including labor rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and police accountability.

We also draw historical parallels to the tumultuous 1968 DNC, reflecting on the cyclical nature of political unrest and the enduring fight for justice. This episode examines the broader themes of state violence and police accountability, highlighting recent controversies involving the Chicago Police Department and the distribution of federal funds and how these help us understand the context of the convention.

Listeners are urged to engage in the ongoing struggle for justice, challenge the status quo, and recognize collective action's impact in shaping our political future. Join us as we navigate the maze of political activism and explore the historical context and potential of the upcoming DNC protests in Chicago and how this event allows us to identify a new vector to push for a ceasefire and autonomy for the people of Palestine.

The Chicago Alliance Against Racist & Political Repression's website for more on the upcoming protest of the convention & Democratic support for the genocide in Palestine:

https://www.caarpr.org/

 

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:

Road Trip, Podcast, 2020 Election, COVID-19, U.S. Political Landscape, Trump, Biden, Democratic Party, USAID, Israel, Labor Rights, LGBTQIA+ Rights, Police Accountability, Campus Tensions, Palestinian Cause, State Violence, Police Reform, Chicago Police Department, Political Unrest, Activism, Collective Action, First Amendment Rights, Kamala Harris, Cook County State's Attorney, State Violence, Police Accountability, Oath Keepers, 1968 Democratic National Convention, Progressive Factions, Political Awareness, Activism Movement, Mass Movement, Justice, Hollow Slogans, Empty Promises

Activist and author Peter Gelderloos returns to the Porpoise Almanac to discuss his latest book, "They Will Beat the Memory Out of Us." With a lifetime of activism under his belt, Peter shares his heartfelt reflections on the enduring struggles of social movements, the critical role of collective memory, and the widening gap between generations in the digital age. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the complexities of maintaining intergenerational connections amidst capitalism's isolating forces, highlighting how social media often exacerbates these divides rather than bridging them.

Together, we navigate the labyrinth of political ideologies, examining the fluid nature of anarchism and the need for adaptability in today's rapidly changing world. Peter sheds light on the pitfalls of rigid frameworks and the resilience of grassroots mutual aid, contrasting these with the inefficiencies of traditional governmental responses. We explore the fascinating potential for engaging with right-wing narratives, probing the surprising openness some individuals have toward systemic issues and the necessity of preserving past activism's memory to inform contemporary efforts.

Our discussion further extends to supporting incarcerated individuals, underscoring the importance of memory and community in aiding their re-entry into society. Peter's insights on navigating imperfections within activism offer a candid look at the challenges of fostering collective accountability and healing. His work resonates profoundly with anyone feeling adrift in modern movements, and we encourage our listeners to explore his writings for a deeper understanding of building resilient, generational communities.

Check out his book at: https://www.plutobooks.com/

Find Peter on Bluesky at @petergelderloos.bsky.social & https://petergelderloos.substack.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/

Key words:

Activism, Collective Memory, Generational Divide, Social Media, Anarchism, Political Ideology, Right-Wing Narratives, Grassroots Mutual Aid, Incarceration, Imperfection in Activism, Intergenerational Connections, Digital Age, Social Movements, Capitalism, Community, Memory Preservation, Re-Entry, Accountability, Healing, Political Terminology

Join us as we embark on an inspiring journey through the origins and growth of the Midwest Elderberry Cooperative with our guest, Chris Patton. Discover how his passion for sustainable agriculture was ignited at the Moses Conference in 2011, leading him to explore the untapped potential of American elderberry as a commercial crop. Alongside experienced farmer Paul Otten, Chris formed the cooperative to cultivate and distribute elderberries, providing support to small businesses and fostering a thriving local foods movement. Through the cooperative structure, they have laid the groundwork for a sustainable and successful future for elderberry production.

Explore the challenges and triumphs of establishing American elderberry as a viable commercial crop. At the age of 62, Chris embarked on this venture with a vision to create a legacy and a team to ensure its continuity. The conversation sheds light on the legal and cooperative frameworks that support this industry and highlights the importance of market education and investment in research. With insights from key figures like Terry Durham and Mark Shepard, we uncover the unique benefits of American elderberry, and its integration into agroforestry, which offers exciting opportunities for farmers.

Finally, we discuss the future of the American elderberry industry and its potential to rival the European market. Chris shares his optimism, bolstered by the support of allied organizations and ongoing research into elderberry cultivars. We emphasize the importance of local sourcing and supporting American elderberry products, while also acknowledging the resource constraints that currently limit social media presence. The conversation rounds out with a look at the unpredictable nature of niche agriculture, including stories of sunchokes and Aronia, illustrating the dynamic landscape of agricultural ventures.

Check out the Cooperative at www.midwest-elderberry.coop

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/

 

Key Words:

Elderberry, American Elderberry, Cooperative, Sustainable Agriculture, Midwest, Commercial Crop, Local Foods, Agroforestry, Market Education, Research, Niche Agriculture, Sun Chokes, Aronia, Cultivation, Sustainability, Growth, Market Demand, Social Media, Local Sourcing, Small Businesses

Join us as we explore a transformative journey through the protests surrounding the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago. This firsthand account guides us through the emotional highs and lows of modern activism, from initial ignorance about the Palestinian cause to the solidarity and danger faced on the streets. Hear about the diverse range of organizations banding together, the historical echoes of 1968, and the meticulous preparations to safeguard against police violence.

Our deep dive doesn't stop there. We also reflect on the recent pro-choice protest in Chicago, highlighting the intersection of grassroots movements and media dynamics. Discover the intricate balance between protesters' efforts and media portrayal, the overwhelming pro-Palestinian sentiment, and the pivotal role of legal observers. The physical demands and profound sense of solidarity among various activist groups are brought to light, underscoring the vital role of collective action in political discourse.

In a candid conversation with a healthcare worker advocating for Palestinian rights, we uncover the harsh realities of police brutality and the tactical measures taken by protesters to protect themselves. From navigating police presence to the unity within leftist groups, these insights offer a comprehensive look at protest strategies and the philosophies driving the movement. A local official weighs in on the importance of grassroots involvement and the urgent need for unity within the US left to achieve meaningful change. Get ready for a narrative that not only informs but also inspires action.

 

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:

Road Trip, Podcast, 2020 Election, COVID-19, U.S. Political Landscape, Trump, Biden, Democratic Party, USAID, Israel, Labor Rights, LGBTQIA+ Rights, Police Accountability, Campus Tensions, Palestinian Cause, State Violence, Police Reform, Chicago Police Department, Political Unrest, Activism, Collective Action, First Amendment Rights, Kamala Harris, Cook County State's Attorney, State Violence, Police Accountability, Oath Keepers, 1968 Democratic National Convention, Progressive Factions, Political Awareness, Activism Movement, Mass Movement, Justice, Hollow Slogans, Empty Promises

Unlock the secrets of resilient gardening and sustainable agriculture with Eric, a pioneer in the permaculture movement. Discover how perennial vegetables can bolster global food security and improve diets, as Eric shares his personal journey from intern to influential thought leader in the perennial crops space. We'll explore the nutritional depths and availability of these remarkable plants, and how they can transform food systems to tackle malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies worldwide.

Join us as we critically examine the permaculture movement and the sophisticated mechanisms plants use to redistribute soil nutrients. Eric and I discuss the importance of credibility, the concept of "post-permaculturalist" thinking, and the pitfalls of overpromising within regenerative agriculture. We'll navigate the complexities of modern farming, balancing conventional and sustainable practices, and explore the potential for democratized plant breeding and accessible gardening methods.

From acorn flour to edible tree leaves, this episode ventures into the underexplored realms of multi-use plants and their role in sustainable agriculture. Eric shares insights from his latest projects in agroforestry and indigenous food practices, offering practical strategies for integrating perennial crops into our food systems. Learn from Eric's extensive research and latest book releases, and be inspired to contribute to a more resilient and ecologically sound future.

Check out Eric's work at: https://www.perennialsolutions.org/

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:

Resilient Gardening, Sustainable Agriculture, Permaculture, Perennial Vegetables, Global Food Security, Nutrition, Food Systems, Food Sovereignty, Nutrient Deficiencies, Credibility, Post-Permaculturalist, Regenerative Agriculture, Complexity, Conventional and Sustainable Practices, Democratized Plant Breeding, Agroforestry, Indigenous Food Practices, Multi-Use Plants, Nutritional Benefits, Ecological Sustainability, Climate Change, Resilient Food Systems, Ecosystem Restoration, Perennial Crops, Acorn Flour, Bioplastics, Agroforestry Manuals, Indigenous Agricultural Practices, Plant Enthusiast, Passing on Knowledge

Get ready to dive into one of the most catastrophic industrial disasters in American history as we take you back to New York City in 1911. We unravel the harrowing details of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, where 146 garment workers, mostly young immigrant women, perished in a tragic blaze. We'll weave through the horrific scenes of workers leaping to their deaths and the gut-wrenching failures in safety protocols—all while cracking jokes and sprinkling dark humor amid the historical calamity.

Next, we delve into the corrupt practices and sheer negligence that set the stage for this disaster. Ever wondered how a locked door could spell doom for hundreds? Meet Isaac Harris and Max Blanck, the factory owners whose greed and disregard for human life turned their factory into a deathtrap. You'll also encounter the tenacious labor activists and reformers who, spurred by this tragedy, fought tirelessly for workers' rights and safety regulations.

Finally, we explore the sweeping reforms that emerged from the ashes of the fire, reshaping labor laws and safety standards in the United States.

To listen to death and friends, find them on social media @Deathandfriendspodcast or tune in wherever you're listening to this right now!

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/

Discover the groundbreaking research of Jim Ippolito, a leading expert in soil health and fertility from Ohio State University. Our engaging conversation uncovers his innovative methods for utilizing soil bacteria to enhance nutrient availability, especially phosphorus—a vital yet non-renewable resource. We challenge traditional farming practices and highlight how leveraging natural soil biology can revolutionize sustainable agriculture, reducing the reliance on external fertilizers.

Explore the fascinating intersections between soil microorganisms and human biology as we discuss how ecosystems shape microbial diversity and affect everything from prairies to farmlands. We draw intriguing parallels between biological structures found in nitrogen-fixing bacteria and human components, such as hemoglobin, revealing the profound interconnectedness of all life forms. Jim shares his optimistic vision of how phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria might reshape agriculture, emphasizing the pressing need for innovative solutions to ensure a sustainable future.

As we tackle the economic and practical challenges faced by producers transitioning to sustainable methods, Jim offers insights from his extensive experience with biochar, biosolids, and integrated agroecosystem management. We delve into the potential and hurdles of using biochar in large-scale agriculture and discuss the importance of balancing modern techniques with traditional knowledge in regenerative agriculture. Our conversation concludes with an exploration of efforts to advance soil health legislation in Ohio, highlighting the critical role these initiatives play in promoting resilient and sustainable agricultural practices.

We discuss a fellow colleague's research extensively, Dr. Antisar Afkairin:

https://scholar.google.com/citations?view_op=list_works&hl=en&hl=en&user=6Q-Z0b4AAAAJ

We also discuss a new book, Native Grass Forages, which can be found here: https://nativegrasses.tennessee.edu/native-grass-forages/?origin=serp_auto

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/

Keywords

Soil Bacteria, Sustainable Agriculture, Phosphorus, Nutrient Availability, Traditional Farming Practices, Natural Soil Biology, Microorganisms, Human Biology, Ecosystems, Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria, Hemoglobin, Chlorophyll, Biochar, Biosolids, Agroecosystem Management, Regenerative Agriculture, Soil Health Legislation, Ohio State University, Soil Science, Terroir, Soil Microbiology, Soil Health, Sustainable Future, Agricultural Practices, Soil Management, Economic Challenges, No-Till Farming, Cover Crops, Biochar Applications, Environmental Remediation, Niche Agricultural Settings, Biosolids Management, Landfills, Phosphorus Management, Environmental Issues, Regenerative Agriculture, Native Forage, Resilient Ecosystems, High-Managed Systems, Modern Agricultural Practices, Traditional Methods, Native Grass Forages, Soil Health Initiatives, Soil Health Bill, Task Force, David Brant, Beneficial Bacteria

A month back, we opened the floor to questions from listeners regarding our thoughts after 5 years into this project, whether or not Elliott is locked in the basement, how we feel about solarpunk futures and tons more!

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: https://breadandrosespress.com/

For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

 

Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with
@shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code "ALMANAC" at
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The fight for immigrant rights is gaining momentum, and the status quo is feeling the tremors. Witness the awakening in Chicago's Little Village, where over 600 voices rose against the injustices perpetrated by ICE. Alderman Byron Sigcho Lopez's powerful speech called for unity, challenging the forces that thrive on fear and division. Join us as we uncover the profound impact of collective action and the potential for cross-community coalition building in the heart of a vibrant Hispanic neighborhood.

Amidst the passionate protests, a young girl stands as a symbol of hope and resistance for her family's future. Omar Flores from the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression shares insights and strategies to safeguard immigrant communities through rights education and rapid response initiatives. We explore practical advice for those facing encounters with ICE, reinforcing the ongoing struggle against oppressive policies. This episode brings to light the courage of undocumented families and the strength found in grassroots advocacy.

Organizing a protest is no small feat, and we take you behind the scenes to spotlight the unsung heroes—organizers, marshals, and volunteers—who make these events a reality. As protests unfold, participants are reminded of the importance of visibility and the potential risks involved. The discussion also delves into the political labyrinth of Chicago's sanctuary city status, the challenges faced by Mayor Brandon Johnson, and the broader implications of ICE's Operation Safeguard on local communities. From resilience to unity, this episode underscores the power of solidarity in the ongoing fight for immigrant rights.

Follow Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression @CAARPRNow

Follow Alderman Byron Sigcho Lopez @Sigchofor25

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: https://breadandrosespress.com/

For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

 

Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with
@shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code "ALMANAC" at
Mandopodcast.com/ALMANAC! #mandopod

Key words:

ICE Operations, Immigration, Trump, Chicago, Transparency, Vigilance, Unity, Diversity, Dignity, Justice, Guantanamo Bay, Lakin-Riley Act, Suburban Response, Bolingbrook, Naperville, Protests, Resilience, Activism, Public Health, Politics, Civic Engagement, Nonprofit, State Politics, Solidarity, Adversity, COVID-19, Immigrant Communities

Join us for an intriguing journey as we explore the age-old tradition of canning. We kick things off with a humorous take on unconventional Bitcoin mining strategies, touching on their environmental impacts. This playful banter sets the stage for a fascinating discussion on canning's historical significance, especially its evolution in the 19th century and its essential role in food preservation and extending shelf life beyond harvest seasons. We highlight the advantages canning offered to farmers and producers, such as reducing spoilage and stabilizing prices, and even explore its impact on West Coast union organizing and the processing of wild foods.

Our conversation then transitions into the history and modern relevance of community canning centers, revealing how these centers emerged from neighborhood organizing efforts to support rural communities. Discover the incredible efficiency gains they provided compared to individual canning efforts, as well as the vital role they played in supplementing farm incomes and promoting community resilience. We examine the Texas Agricultural Extension Service's involvement in establishing canning centers and the racial disparities in access to these facilities, with a special focus on the expansion of canneries for African Americans by 1918. These centers not only fostered community empowerment but also bolstered self-sufficiency, enabling residents to can their produce without needing upfront capital.

Lastly, we delve into the transformative impact of community canning centers during the Great Depression and World War II, particularly for African American communities and women. Uncover the significance of Victory Gardens and the role these centers played in fostering community solidarity, resource sharing, and even interracial collaboration. As we reflect on the class and race dynamics of the era, we celebrate the resilience and leadership that emerged, emphasizing the importance of these efforts in empowering marginalized communities. We wrap up with insights into community-centered business ideas and education, inviting listeners to explore the untapped stories waiting in local archives and inspiring innovative thinking through practical ventures like canning and maple syrup processing.

 

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/

 

Key Words:

Bitcoin Mining, Canning, Environmental Impacts, Historical Narratives, Food Preservation, Economic Stability, Farmers, West Coast Union Organizing, Wild Foods, Community Canning Centers, Efficiency, Resilience, Marginalized Groups, Texas Agricultural Extension Service, African Americans, Victory Gardens, Women, Business Ideas, Local History, Community Resilience, Solidarity, Patreon

Unlock the secrets of the resilient beach plum, Prunus maritima, and learn how these tenacious plants help fight coastal erosion while offering a rich tapestry of horticultural history. We'll transport you back to the days of early explorers like Giovanni da Verrazzano and Henry Hudson, who first documented these hardy shrubs along the northeastern United States coast. Join us as we uncover how beach plums have long intrigued cultivators due to their genetic diversity, presenting challenges and opportunities that have persisted since the 19th century.

Meet the unsung heroes of beach plum cultivation from the 1930s, including Jay Milton Batchelor, Wilford Wheeler, and George Graves, who championed unique varieties with passion and humor. We'll explore the historical significance of the Cape Cod Beach Plum Growers Association and discover the quirky connections between its founders, the environmental elements they studied, and the playful coincidences they encountered. Through stories filled with both horticultural insight and wit, we celebrate the legacy of these dedicated individuals who refused to let the allure of the beach plum fade into obscurity.

Journey with us into the renewed interest and research of the early 2000s, led by institutions like Cornell and UMass and other researchers. We highlight their efforts to identify and preserve the best beach plum varieties and their commitment to maintaining genetic diversity. As we wrap up, we'll share amusing anecdotes about the lengths enthusiasts might go to obtain cuttings and encourage listeners to join forums and online communities to ensure these unique cultivars thrive for future generations.

 

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/

 

Key Words:

Beach Plums, Prunus maritima, Coastal Erosion, Horticultural History, Early Explorers, Genetic Diversity, Cultivation, Cultivators, Giovanni da Verrazzano, Henry Hudson, Northeastern United States, Jay Milton Batchelor, Wilford Wheeler, George Graves, Cape Cod Beach Plum Growers Association, Environmental Elements, Dr. Uwe, Dr. Abigail Maynard, Cornell, UMass, Genetic Diversity, Cultivars, Yukon 49, Jersey Gem, Forums, Social Media, Cataloging, Genetics

Today, we're diving into the history of blueberries and huckleberries, from their ancient roles in indigenous cultures to their rise in modern agriculture. Explore the fascinating evolution of the canning industry, spotlighting how the Ball Brothers Corporation and a pivotal court case in 1870 revolutionized food preservation and blueberry production. Discover the intriguing story of the huckleberry industry's boom and bust during the early 20th century, shaped by economic forces and wartime priorities, while reflecting on the contrasting sustainable practices of indigenous communities.

Join us as we celebrate the groundbreaking work of Dr. Frederick Coville and Elizabeth White, whose innovative efforts in cultivating blueberries transformed barren lands into lush, productive fields. Their collaboration laid the foundation for today’s blueberry industry, with a nod to the USDA's role in promoting cultivation and breeding advancements. From understanding the perfect conditions for blueberry growth to exploring the whimsical world of whortleberries, this conversation is as informative as it is entertaining.

With humor and heart, we invite you to consider the cultural and historical significance of these beloved berries and to rethink how we integrate native crops into our diets. Engage with our lighthearted banter and be part of this delightful exploration into the world of blueberries, huckleberries, and beyond. Whether you're a history buff, a blueberry enthusiast, or simply enjoy a good story, there's something for everyone in this episode.

 

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:

Blueberries, Huckleberries, Indigenous Cultures, Agriculture, Canning Industry, Ball Brothers Corporation, Court Case, Evolution, Harvesting, Civil War, Embalming, Maine, Great Depression, World War II, Dr. Frederick Coville, Elizabeth White, USDA, Genetic Diversity, Pawpaws, Black Walnuts, Climate Change, Whortleberries, Social Media, Twitter

Get ready for an enlightening discussion with Lyndsie Bourgon as we unpack the complex world of illegal timber harvesting on the West Coast. Bourgon, whose fascination with the topic began with a 2012 news story about stolen old-growth cedar in British Columbia, provides a fresh perspective on tree poaching. We go beyond the black-and-white narrative of "bad people doing bad things" to reveal the deep economic, cultural, and historical roots that drive individuals to engage in this illicit activity.

Our conversation takes a deep dive into the enduring impact of the timber wars of the early 1990s in Northern California, where the expansion of Redwoods National Park left local communities feeling unheard and betrayed. We explore the flawed economic transitions from logging to tourism, and the societal stigmas around accepting government aid. Listen as we discuss the persistent distrust toward agencies like the Forest Service and National Park Service, and the frustration that fuels resistance to change in these rural communities.

In the final segment, we delve into the ethical dilemmas faced by those involved in tree poaching, the environmental damage caused by rushed harvesting, and the specialized skills that poachers take pride in. Borgon also shares her insights into current research on community forest management, highlighting inspiring stories from Scotland's Land Reform Act. This episode challenges conventional thinking and seeks comprehensive, empathetic solutions to the multifaceted issues of illegal timber harvesting. Don’t miss out on this captivating conversation that offers a deeper understanding of the socio-economic complexities at play.

Check Out Lyndsie's work at: https://www.lyndsiebourgon.com/ and on social media at @LyndsieBourgon

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: Illegal Timber Harvesting, West Coast, Economic Development, Rural Communities, Environmental Ethics, Community Land Management, Timber Wars, Redwoods National Park, Logging, Conservation, Socio-Historical Context, Empathy, Sustainable Practices, Drug Use, Methamphetamine, Scotland, Land Reform Act, Law Enforcement, Research Process

Dr. Megan Muehlbauer from Rutgers University joins us to uncover the hidden potential of beach plums, a fascinating native fruit of New Jersey. With a keen focus on genetic diversity and innovative agricultural practices, Dr. Muehlbauer shares her journey into the world of niche crops and highlights the challenges and triumphs of her research. From rescuing a unique beach plum tree to grappling with pollination issues, her work exemplifies the crucial role of biodiversity in contemporary farming.

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we discuss the importance of funding niche crops like beach plums and the strategic advantages of farm diversification. We dive into the historical and ongoing efforts in beach plum breeding, spotlighting Rutgers' proactive outreach initiatives, like the Great Tomato Tasting, that aim to engage the public and elevate these remarkable crops. The backdrop of New Jersey's agricultural landscape provides a rich context for understanding the value and challenges faced by organizations like the New Jersey Beach Plum Association.

The excitement continues as we explore the fascinating world of apple varieties, with a special focus on the Honeycrisp apple and its impact on market dynamics and consumer expectations. Dr. Muehlbauer offers insights into the complexities of cultivating this beloved variety and the ongoing efforts to develop alternatives that capture its appealing traits. The episode concludes by inviting listeners to become part of the research community, encouraging public participation in the evolving narrative of beach plum cultivation and discovery.

Check out the Rutgers research farm here: https://www.facebook.com/people/Clifford-E-Melda-C-Snyder-Research-Extension-Farm/100064494557910/

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/

Key Words:

Beach Plums, Niche Crops, Genetic Diversity, Agricultural Practices, Rutgers University, New Jersey, Farm Diversification, Pollination, Honeycrisp Apple, Market Dynamics, Consumer Expectations, Apple Varieties, Germplasm Repository, Informal Breeders, Snyder Research Farm, Great Tomato Tasting, USDA, Heirloom, Hard Cider, Consumer Preferences, Honeycrisp and Fuji Crosses, Blueberries, Cranberries, Rutgers Marucci Center, Social Media, Community Engagement, Knowledge Base

Unravel the secrets of the ancient persimmon as we embark on a journey through time, from the Pleistocene era to modern-day culinary adventures. This episode of the Poor Persimmons Almanac is your ticket to understanding these fascinating "tomatoes of the trees," with their rich history and quirky characteristics. We delve into the archaeological significance of persimmons, their role in the diets of indigenous communities, and their unexpected renaissance thanks to agricultural pioneers like James Troop and Liberty Hyde Bailey.

Enjoy our playful exploration of persimmons' versatile uses, from being a cherished sugar source to starring in a delicious stew with sunchokes, rabbit, and wild rice. We'll introduce you to the legends of persimmon breeding like Dr. Troop and Professor JC McDaniel, whose work has shaped the fruit's legacy. Take a light-hearted detour into the world of persimmon competitions and the curious controversy surrounding seedless varieties, all while learning about the nutritional benefits that could make persimmons a staple in your diet.

Discover the science behind persimmon astringency and a variety of methods to reduce it, ensuring you enjoy the fruit to its fullest potential. This episode promises to entertain and enlighten as we celebrate the enduring presence of persimmons in our ecosystem.

 

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/

 

Key Words:

Persimmons, Culinary Adventures, Pleistocene Era, Indigenous Communities, Agricultural Pioneers, James Troop, Liberty Hyde Bailey, American Persimmon, Breeding Legacy, Nutritional Benefits, American Diet, Disney Lore, Seedless Persimmons, Government Conspiracies, Astringency, Tannins, Podcast Production, Unscripted, Playful Nature

Our latest episode navigates the turbulent water of South Korea's neoliberal rise, examining how austerity measures imposed by the IMF hit the working class hard and compromised environmental protections. Yet, within these adversities, seedbeds of change emerged, notably in the form of farming communes and radical agroecology. We unravel these complex threads with a nod to the contradictions they harbor, setting the stage for a deeper conversation about capitalism's imprint on democracy and nature.

The narrative doesn't stop there. We turn our gaze to the evolution of environmental movements in South Korea, transitioning from the centralized NGO structures of the '80s to the grassroots-driven initiatives we see today. By spotlighting movements like the Life and Peace Movement, we highlight how ordinary citizens, pro-democracy advocates, and agroecological farmers are crafting a more resilient and balanced ecological future from the ground up. These community-driven efforts challenge the status quo not by dismantling capitalism directly but by fostering local autonomy and ecological alternatives, offering rich insights for similar movements in places like the United States.

Finally, we explore the political landscape of agroecology with movements like JADAM and Korean Natural Farming at the helm, which challenge the artificial separation of politics from daily life. Consumer cooperatives are on the rise, transforming societal values and culture by creating alternatives to capitalism. In the realm of cooperative community agriculture, the Hansel and Movement stands as a testament to the power of collective endeavor, cycling financial and agricultural outputs back into the community.

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/

Key Words:

South Korea, Capitalism, Foreign Exchange Crisis, IMF, Austerity Measures, Working Class, Environmental Protections, Farming Communes, Radical Agroecology, Grassroots Movements, Democracy, Nature, NGO, Life and Peace Movement, Consumer Cooperatives, Political Agroecology, JADAM, Korean Natural Farming, Cooperative Community Agriculture, Hansel and Movement, Capitalistic Pursuits, Late Night Recordings, Passive Income, Patreon

 

What if the honey locust tree holds the key to transforming American agriculture yet remains an untapped treasure? Join us as we explore this remarkable tree's profound historical significance and unique attributes. We guide you through its pre-human landscapes and symbiotic relationship with Pleistocene megafauna, shedding light on how its fearsome thorns might have served as tattoo tools for indigenous peoples. With insights from Dr. Robert Warren, we unravel the intriguing journey of the honey locust, drawing comparisons to the Kentucky coffee tree and pondering its adaptation to wet regions through human intervention.

In a lighthearted and anecdotal manner, we delve into the quirky connections between anachronistic trees like the honey locust and Kentucky coffee tree, alongside their relationships with now-extinct species. Discover the indigenous significance of the honey locust's sweet pulp, a sugar alternative in warmer regions, and laugh with us as we draw amusing parallels with modern-day treats like candy corn. While we acknowledge the mysteries surrounding ancient methods of processing honey locust pulp, our light-hearted exploration invites you to imagine historical storage practices and potential uses.

The honey locust is more than just a historical icon; it is a beacon of agricultural potential. Uncover its promising varieties, like Millwood, identified in the 1930s, and their potential for livestock feed and ethanol production. We recount the efforts of researchers like Dr. James Hanover to unlock the tree's capabilities for sustainable farming systems. Whether it's silvopasture or energy farming, the honey locust fits seamlessly into modern agriculture, offering ecological benefits and versatility. We invite you to join us in supporting ongoing research into this fascinating crop and perhaps even become a part of our knowledge-sharing community.

 

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/

 

Key words:

Urban Forestry, Ecological Restoration, Native Flora, Cityscapes, Urban Stressors, Soil Compaction, Pollution, Climate Adaptation, Invasive Species, Native Tree Planting, Community-Based Environmental Stewardship, Grassroots Initiative, Honey Locust, Urban Foraging, Digital Content, Environmental Education, Community Connections, Micro-volunteering, Invasive Weed Management, Environmental Change

Discover the secrets of effective conservation and ecological restoration through the eyes of Kyle, a dedicated content creator who shifted from private forestry to social media advocacy. Learn about his strategic approach to simplifying complex ecological topics and the crucial role of private landowners in preserving local ecosystems amidst limited state and federal resources. Engage with the heated debates within the conservation community as Kyle recounts his experiences with controversial practices like herbicide use, prescribed burns, and tree cutting.

Hear firsthand about the backlash from the permaculture community over his methods for managing invasive species, and delve into the complexities of balancing practicality and ecological integrity. Kyle illustrates these challenges with examples like autumn olive and hardy kiwi, highlighting the nuanced opinions and fierce discussions that shape conservation efforts.

Finally, immerse yourself in the historical and contemporary significance of Alabama's prairie ecosystems. From the heart-wrenching destruction of biodiverse prairies to inspiring restoration projects such as the 40-acre Huntsville prairie, Kyle's stories underscore the urgency of preserving these precious habitats. Discover innovative strategies to engage corporations in sustainable development and learn about the emotional toll and ethical dilemmas faced by conservationists protecting endangered species. Join us for an episode that not only educates but also inspires collective action towards ecological stewardship.

Check out the Native Habitat Project at: https://www.nativehabitatproject.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:

Conservation, Ecological Restoration, Private Forestry, Social Media Advocacy, ADHD, Simplifying Complex Topics, Private Landowners, State and Federal Resources, Controversial Practices, Herbicide Use, Prescribed Burns, Tree Cutting, Invasive Species, Permaculture Community, Autumn Olive, Hardy Kiwi, Alabama Prairie Ecosystems, Sustainable Development, Endangered Species, Grasslands, Huntsville Prairie, Corporate Engagement, Historical Narratives, Land Conservation, Seed Banks, Climate Change, Blue Star Plant, TikTok, Legal Responsibility, Ethical Duty, Hazelnuts, Q&A Panel, Self-Education

Join us as we welcome Dr. Maria Rusca, a senior lecturer in global development at the University of Manchester, who brings her extensive research on urban inequalities and environmental governance to our discussion. Maria will illuminate the pressing issues of gendered access to water and sanitation services in sub-Saharan African cities, with a poignant case study of Cape Town's severe drought from 2015 to 2018. Understand how socioeconomic disparities shape the vulnerabilities and resilience of different communities during extreme climate events, and why equitable urban planning is essential for future sustainability.

Our conversation then shifts to the intricate challenges of water management, both in Cape Town and globally, including the United States. We uncover how merely increasing water supply is insufficient without addressing the underlying socioeconomic inequalities that impact water consumption and access. Maria's insights urge us to reconsider societal priorities and the role of sustainable consumption and climate justice in effective climate adaptation strategies. This episode critiques the limitations of technocratic fixes and advocates for more holistic, structural changes.

Finally, we spotlight the remarkable advocacy efforts of Shack Dwellers International (SDI) in improving water and sanitation services in informal settlements. Discover how SDI’s innovative use of saving groups and data collection campaigns bring affordable, high-quality services to low-income residents, who often pay more for inferior water services. The episode also extends the discussion to developed nations, examining the broader implications of climate change and the need for resilience and equity in our responses. Maria shares inspiring examples of human adaptability, encouraging listeners to remain hopeful and proactive in confronting the challenges ahead.

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:

Urban Inequalities, Environmental Governance, Gendered Access, Water and Sanitation Services, Sub-Saharan African Cities, Cape Town, Drought, Socioeconomic Disparities, Climate Events, Urban Planning, Water Management, United States, Sustainable Consumption, Climate Justice, Technocratic Fixes, Structural Changes, Shack Dwellers International, Informal Settlements, Saving Groups, Data Collection, Climate Change, Resilience, Equitable Advocacy, Oppressive Measures, Hurricane Harvey, Marginalized Communities, Water Shortages, Inaccessibility, Human Resilience, Adaptability, Hope, Atlantic Current

Join us on a journey through the lush landscapes of wild blueberry fields with our esteemed guest, Rachel, an expert in wild blueberry production from the University of Maine. Discover Rachel's fascinating transition from working with vegetables and small fruits to studying the ecological importance of wild blueberries. These tiny berries hold a rich history and are an essential support for a diverse range of pollinators. Rachel provides a window into her climate change research, where she experiments with various genotypes to see how these resilient plants may adapt to shifting environmental conditions. Her expertise unveils the remarkable traits that make wild blueberries not only a treasured wild food but a crucial part of our ecosystem.

We also navigate the shifting techniques in wild blueberry farming, spotlighting the use of prescribed fires and the movement towards alternative methods like mowing due to air quality concerns. Rachel sheds light on the challenges farmers face in water management, highlighting the divide between large farms with state-of-the-art irrigation and smaller farms grappling with water sourcing. The conversation introduces Maine's Farmer Drought Relief Program, emphasizing the need for increased state funding for agricultural adaptation to climate change. Rachel shares an optimistic view on recent USDA allocations, providing hope for future agricultural resilience.

Lastly, we explore the intricate connections between food security and wild food practices, particularly as they evolved through the COVID-19 pandemic. The resurgence of home gardening, hunting, fishing, and foraging underscores a shift towards self-sufficiency and highlights the barriers these practices face, such as permits and skill requirements. We delve into the complex landscape of food sovereignty, examining the tensions between private land ownership and public access, with a focus on Maine’s groundbreaking right to food legislation. The episode also addresses environmental concerns, like PFAS contamination, which pose significant obstacles to achieving true food sovereignty. Rachel’s insights provide a thought-provoking perspective on balancing land rights, environmental health, and personal food security.

Check out her research at www.agroecolab.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 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:

Wild Blueberries, Climate Change, Agriculture, Pollinators, Climate Adaptation, Food Security, Food Sovereignty, Land Access, Maine, University of Maine, Farmer Drought Relief Program, USDA, COVID-19, Gardening, Hunting, Fishing, Foraging, PFAS Contamination, Environmental Regulation

 

Tune in to the captivating story of Sicilian fishermen who, driven by the decline of their homeland's sardine industry, sparked a remarkable transformation along California's coast. This episode promises an enlightening journey through the cultural and economic impacts of their migration, with a spotlight on the formidable Sicilian women who found empowerment in Monterey's canneries. These women established "little matriarchies," navigating a unique blend of gender roles and shunning traditional labor unions to maintain their cultural identity.

Our narrative delves into the rich tapestry of community building among Sicilian immigrants, where traditional gatherings like festas and affinity groups played pivotal roles in fostering unity and preserving cultural heritage. Discover how these women deftly balanced their work in grueling conditions with their commitments to family and culture, often shouldering domestic duties during fishing off-seasons, a reversal of roles that challenged the norms of their time. Their resourcefulness and resilience revealed themselves in how they adapted to new environments while maintaining old-world values.

We also confront the harsh realities faced by Italian immigrants during World War II, who were unjustly labeled "dangerous nationals" and subjected to discrimination. This episode draws poignant parallels to today's societal challenges, urging listeners to reflect on the injustices of the past and their lingering echoes. As we examine these historical narratives, we celebrate the indomitable spirit of Sicilian immigrants and their enduring influence on the cultural landscape of California, a testament to their strength and adaptability.

 

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: https://breadandrosespress.com/

For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

 

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Explore the curious tale of the Kentucky coffee tree, a living relic from an era when mastodons and giant sloths roamed freely. This episode uncovers the tree’s mysterious history, its quirky ties to extinct megafauna, and its unusual journey into the present day. With humor and curiosity, we ponder the tree's place in today’s world, including its potential culinary use and cultural significance. Imagine savoring forgotten fruits or crafting new beverages from these ancient species, as we explore how humanity can reconnect with this green artifact of the past. Join us for a deeper look at how the Kentucky coffee tree once enriched Indigenous lives and how it may still play a part in sustainable agriculture.

Despite its thick seed shells and struggles to propagate naturally, this tree has a resilient legacy, from nitrogen fixation to its quirky role in indigenous dice games. We’ll consider its ecological potential alongside other interesting species like the honey locust and Osage orange. Through insights into historical practices and a touch of whimsy, we embrace the essence of preserving knowledge and envision a future where these ancient trees contribute to a balanced ecosystem.

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:

Kentucky Coffee Tree, Mastodons, Extinction, Seed Dispersers, Sustainable Agriculture, Indigenous Uses, Diversity, Evolutionary Background, Pleistocene Extinction, Forgotten Fruits, Nitrogen Fixation, Livestock Diets, Ecological Incorporation, Black Locust, Black Cherry, Roasting, Ceremonial Uses, Recreational Uses, Indigenous Dice Game, Historical Knowledge

 

Esteemed historian Dr. Horne joins us for an eye-opening discussion about his new book, "Armed Struggle? Panthers and Communists, Black Nationalists and Liberals in Southern California through the 60s and 70s." This episode dives deep into the intricacies of organizing under capitalism, informed by Dr. Horne's personal experiences with the Black Panther Party. We also revisit his thought-provoking analysis of Washington DC, where the paradox of power and race reveals much about the foundational myths of the United States. Dr. Horne challenges us to rethink the historical narratives that shape our understanding of American history, particularly the events of 1776 and their limited impact on indigenous peoples and enslaved populations. Our conversation does not shy away from the hard truths of America's political landscape. We explore the historical decisions of the NAACP and their relevance to modern activism, the arduous task of campaigning against military spending, and the pressing need for a revitalized labor movement.

Dr. Horne discusses "settler colonialism" and unpacks its implications, both historically and in today's context, touching on issues like Cherokee assimilation and class collaboration. We also address the counterrevolution against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and the precarious future for undocumented workers should Trump return to office. This multifaceted episode promises to be as enlightening as it is thought-provoking.

To hear Dr. Horne further, check out the activist news network: https://www.youtube.com/@activistnewsnetwork

His new book can be purchased at:

https://www.intpubnyc.com/browse/armed-struggle/

 

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/

Historian, Black Panther Party, Capitalism, Washington DC, Indigenous Peoples, Enslaved Population, NAACP, Military Spending, Labor Movement, Settler Colonialism, Cherokee Assimilation, Class Collaboration, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Counterrevolution, Undocumented Workers, Slavery, Arson, Resistance, Thomas Jefferson

Podcast Summary

Can a humble tuber change the face of sustainable agriculture? Explore the fascinating world of Apios americana, the groundnut, as we uncover its rich history and its potential to revolutionize our food systems. Our journey takes us back to its indigenous roots in North America, through its historical introduction to Europe, and onto its role as a staple food source for communities that understood its dual nature as both a bean and a root crop. With its nitrogen-fixing properties and intriguing possibility of co-evolution with an extinct pollinator, this plant is more than meets the eye. We share tales of its importance in wetland habitats and its interaction within managed ecosystems, where it sits alongside plants like black walnuts and pawpaws.

Groundnut enthusiasts, we've got a treat for you! Uncover the genetic complexities of Apios americana, from its diploid and triploid forms to the quirky "mule plants" that emerge from some crossbreeding efforts. We dive into historical breeding projects, including a nod to the ambitious 1985 Louisiana State University project led by Bill Blackman and Berthel Reynolds. Their work laid the groundwork for today's efforts to improve groundnut characteristics. Discover the global fascination with this tuber, from backyard breeders' innovations to international collaborations aiming to enhance tuber size and nitrogen fixation capabilities. The chapter also reveals why the LA85-034 variety remains a fan favorite among groundnut aficionados.

Round out this botanical adventure with a look at the groundnut's nutritional prowess and culinary potential. Despite its potato-like appearance, Apios americana offers three times the protein, positioning it as a nutritional powerhouse. We'll explore why it hasn't yet captured the Western palate and suggest creative culinary uses that could change that. Join us as we mix humor, history, and horticulture, ensuring a fun and informative experience that promises to leave you hungry for more knowledge and perhaps a taste of groundnut pie!

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: https://breadandrosespress.com/

For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

 

Key Words:

Apios americana, Sustainable Agriculture, Groundnut, Nitrogen-fixing, Botanists, Historians, Indigenous Cultures, North America, European Diets, Genetic Diversity, Ecological Role, Co-evolution, Extinct Pollinator, Wetland Habitats, Black Walnuts, Pawpaws, Crop Management, Genetic Quirks, Louisiana State University, Backyard Breeders, International Collaborations, Protein, Nutritional Benefits, Growing Conditions, Western Diets, Keto Movement, Sun Chokes, Interview, Sunchokes, Matt, Playful Banter, Unpredictable, Show Lineup, Smooth Send-off

Renowned for her impactful work in community-based research, Dr. Lauren Kepkiewicz joins us on Poor Proles Almanac to unpack the journey towards just and equitable food systems. We explore the transformative power of relational accountability, shedding light on how it challenges traditional academic norms by centering Indigenous women and two-spirit knowledges. With the RARE Collective as a backdrop, this conversation delves into the necessary disruption of Western-centric hierarchies, fostering genuine community-campus engagement that prioritizes inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives.

Our dialogue progresses to the sensitive topics of land dispossession and settler colonialism, highlighting their profound effects on Indigenous peoples and small-scale farmers. Dr. Kepkiewicz emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues openly, moving beyond defensiveness to promote healing and collaboration. The conversation is anchored in the work of the RARE Collective, which seeks to mend and strengthen relationships with the land, envisioning a future where land and food systems are sustainably managed together. Through this lens, we explore the challenges and insights gained in navigating the complex terrain of equitable land stewardship.

Finally, we touch upon the Community Food Sovereignty Hub, examining its pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic research and community needs. The discussion underscores the importance of accessible and relevant knowledge creation, valuing everyday experiences, and understanding local dynamics to foster meaningful change. Join us for an enlightening and heartfelt conversation that paves the way for more inclusive and sustainable food systems.

 

Check out Dr. Kepkiewicz's work here: https://profiles.ucalgary.ca/lauren-kepkiewicz 

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: https://breadandrosespress.com/

For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

 

Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with
@shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code "ALMANAC" at
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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Kirk Pomper, the driving force behind Kentucky State University's pioneering Paw Paw Research Program. As the world's only full-time initiative dedicated to this remarkable fruit, Dr. Pomper brings a wealth of knowledge and passion, tracing his journey from exploring various food crops to championing pawpaws, thanks to the visionary Brett Calloway. We navigate the potential of pawpaw as a transformative alternative crop for small farmers in Kentucky, while also tackling the unique challenges of making this fruit a staple in homes across America.

Dr. Pomper takes us on a journey through the complexities of pawpaw processing, from the intricacies of pulp extraction to innovative storage solutions. As we compare the pawpaw to its fruity cousin, the persimmon, we unravel the market challenges both face and the exciting possibilities for value-added products like pawpaw smoothies and jams. We learn about efforts to extend the fruit's shelf life through controlled atmosphere storage, ensuring pawpaws reach new markets far and wide.

Our discussion culminates in the fascinating world of pawpaw pollination and cultivar research. Dr. Pomper sheds light on the intricate pollination strategies of pawpaw trees, emphasizing the critical role of cross-pollination and the importance of planting diverse varieties. We also highlight Kentucky State University's endeavors to promote pawpaw awareness, including the upcoming Fifth International Pawpaw Conference and annual Pawpaw Day celebrations. This episode offers a captivating glimpse into the efforts to bring the pawpaw from obscurity to the forefront of the fruit world.

Check out KSU's Pawpaw program: https://www.kysu.edu/academics/college-ahnr/school-of-anr/pawpaw/index.php

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/

Keywords:

Pawpaw, Research, Kentucky State University, Fruit, Alternative Crops, Small Farmers, Processing, Pollination, Cultivar, Genetic Diversity, Persimmons, American, Consumer, Storage, Value-Added Products, Insect Pollinators, Cross-Pollination, Survival Mechanisms, Clonal Propagation, Root-Suckering, Native Fruits, Social Media, Educational Field Days, International Conference, Cultivar Release, Entrepreneurs, Nurseries, Scientists, Festivals, Louisville, Athens

 

How does a small community in Athens, Ohio, turn local produce into a thriving business ecosystem? Join us as we unravel the evolutionary tale of ACEnet, a pioneering force in community-based economic development, through the eyes of our insightful guests Adam Kody, Cameron Shasteen, and Isabel Stitchick. Discover the origins of ACEnet, once known as the Worker-Owned Network, and its transformation into a beacon of innovation and support for food businesses in Central Appalachia. Inspired by models from Northern Italy, ACEnet's journey includes launching the Athens Food Venture Center, a hub that has empowered countless entrepreneurs since 1996.

Our conversation sheds light on the collaborative efforts between ACEnet, AmeriCorps, and local farmers, which have reshaped food access and education in Athens County. From transformative programs like the Veggie Van to educational initiatives that teach children about agriculture and cooking, listeners will hear firsthand how ACEnet is making a difference. The episode highlights the critical role of business incubation services in rural settings, providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources needed to flourish, and the role resources like community-scaled equipment provide for building solidarity and resilience.

With stories of shared resources and financial empowerment, we delve into the supportive networks that ACEnet nurtures, including tool libraries and financial guidance. Hear about the power of community networking, and how personal experiences, from starting a mushroom farm to engaging in business counseling, reflect ACEnet's impact on local entrepreneurship. Finally, we cast an eye on the future with ACEnet's exciting participation in the Regional Food Business Center program, a USDA-funded initiative poised to revolutionize regional food economies across Central Appalachia, offering new markets and transformative opportunities.

Check out ACEnet's work here: https://acenetworks.org/#

https://www.indianag.org/intertribalfbc

https://www.appalachiarfbc.org/

 

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/

 

Key words:

Community-driven, Economic Empowerment, ACEnet, Worker-Owned Network, Rural Entrepreneurs, Athens, Ohio, Food Access, Business Counseling, Local Economies, Shared-Use Kitchen, Agricultural Producers, Food Entrepreneurs, Community Collaboration, Resource Sharing, Transformative, Food Systems, Community Economic Development, Northern Italy, Athens ACEnet Food Venture Center, Thermal Processing Room, AmeriCorps, Local Farmers, Rural Action, Fresh Produce, Schools, Agriculture, Nutrition, Business Incubation, Business Support, Rural Setting, Business Knowledge, Entrepreneurship, Business Structures, Cooperative Models, C-corp, S-corp, Equitable Ownership, CEO-led Models, LLCs, DBAs, Cost Considerations, Processing Sunchokes, One-time Intake Fee, Regulatory Processes, Privilege of Failure, Safety Net, Commonwealth Kitchen, Shared Resources Model, Tool Libraries, Community Networking, Financial Empowerment, Financial Literacy, Veggie Van Program, Food Accessibility, Healthy, Local Produce, Underserved Communities, Food Sovereignty, Food Justice, Career Paths, Regional Food Business Center Program, USDA, Technical Assistance, Appalachia Region, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, New Markets, Business Builder Sub-A

Join us as Andrew Conboy, an ISA certified arborist famously known as Andrew the Arborist, captivates us with his journey through urban forestry and ecological restoration. Andrew's passion for integrating native flora into cityscapes shines as he addresses the challenges of urban stressors like soil compaction and pollution. Explore how underutilized species such as swamp white oak and post oak offer hope for climate adaptation in urban areas. From historical anecdotes about the resilience of honey locusts to the intriguing notion of urban foraging, Andrew sheds light on the potential of trees to transform our cities.

The heart of the episode beats with Andrew's insights on community-based environmental stewardship. Discover how the seeds of Colonial Canopy Trees were planted, nurturing a grassroots initiative to tackle invasive species and promote native tree planting. Andrew shares the power of starting small and the joy of building community connections, highlighting stories where volunteers bridge generational and cultural divides. His experiences illustrate that meaningful environmental change starts with local action and collaboration, with each tree planted and invasive weed pulled embodying a step toward a healthier ecosystem.

This episode also ventures into the digital realm, where Andrew discusses the impact of long-form video content in raising awareness about native plants and urban forestry. Reflecting on his transition from a gaming content creator to an ecological educator, Andrew emphasizes the role of storytelling in engaging communities. As the conversation unfolds, listeners are invited to participate in environmental restoration efforts, understanding that the fusion of personal narratives and ecological action can truly reshape our urban landscapes.

Check out Andrew's nonprofit, Colonial Canopy Trees, here: https://colonialcanopytrees.wordpress.com/

For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org

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/

 

Key Words:

Urban Forestry, Ecological Restoration, Native Flora, Cityscapes, Urban Stressors, Soil Compaction, Pollution, Climate Adaptation, Invasive Species, Native Tree Planting, Community-Based Environmental Stewardship, Grassroots Initiative, Honey Locust, Urban Foraging, Digital Content, Environmental Education, Community Connections, Microvolunteering, Invasive Weed Management, Environmental Change

The fear gripping immigrant communities under Trump's intensified ICE operations is palpable, and the narrative that these efforts solely target criminal elements is being scrutinized. Join us as we uncover how these actions, particularly in Chicago, create an atmosphere of anxiety and uncertainty among immigrants. There's a glaring lack of transparency, and communities are left in a state of heightened vigilance, questioning the true motives behind these operations. We spotlight stories of resilience and activism, where unity and diversity become powerful tools in the fight for dignity and justice.

The proposal to transfer immigration detainees to Guantanamo Bay is not just controversial—it's a seismic shift in policy that could impact 30,000 lives. We examine the ramifications of the Lakin-Riley Act and its broad, sometimes harsh, implications for non-violent offenders. Our exploration of suburban responses to these policies reveals a tapestry of cultural dynamics, from Bolingbrook's blue-collar spirit to Naperville's socio-political climate. Hear about protests that capture the emotional pulse of communities under pressure, revealing both the challenges and the unyielding spirit of those who resist.

Our guest, the pioneering Latina representative for the 85th district, Dagmara Avelar, lends an insightful voice to the intersection of public health, politics, and immigration. Her journey from nonprofit work to state politics underscores the deeply personal nature of civic engagement for immigrant communities. We discuss the importance of understanding immigration's impact on local communities, emphasizing solidarity and the strength found in shared struggles. Tune in for a compelling conversation that challenges perceptions and highlights the critical importance of unity in the face of adversity.

To follow Dagmara, visit: https://www.repdagmara.org/

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: https://breadandrosespress.com/

For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

 

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Key words:

ICE Operations, Immigration, Trump, Chicago, Transparency, Vigilance, Unity, Diversity, Dignity, Justice, Guantanamo Bay, Lakin-Riley Act, Suburban Response, Bolingbrook, Naperville, Protests, Resilience, Activism, Public Health, Politics, Civic Engagement, Nonprofit, State Politics, Solidarity, Adversity, COVID-19, Immigrant Communities

In this episode, we dive into homesteading on a bigger picture; it's a deep dive into the role of modern homesteading within the critical context of today's world....

Uncover the truth about homesteading's limits: Explore how it serves as a response to the increasing alienation and exploitation of modern society, but is not a complete solution to ecological destruction....

Explore the surprising links between ecological and social issues: Understand how climate change, ecological collapse, and even fascism are interconnected....

Transform your garden's purpose: Discover the importance of considering your local ecosystem and the history of the land, moving beyond conventional crops....

Context is key: Learn what makes some home gardens ecologically valuable, while others miss the mark, as the article highlights the significance of cultural and historical connections....

Be part of a future-oriented solution: Find out how homesteading can actively contribute to a better future by championing climate-resilient crops and preserving native biodiversity....

Embark on a journey to revive lost knowledge: Start incorporating native plants into your garden, and honor the landscape's rich history....

"Homesteading with a Planet on Fire" challenges you to see homesteading as more than just a lifestyle choice. It's an invitation to actively improve the landscape and create a legacy for future generations, beginning with a deeper understanding of the ecosystem that surrounds you.

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: https://breadandrosespress.com/

For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

 

Join us for an enlightening discussion with Chris as we uncover the hidden complexities and unexpected realities of starting a farm business. Chris shares his unique journey, which began under the grim assumption of a limited lifespan due to health issues. This led him to neglect a detailed business plan initially, resulting in a steep learning curve. He emphasizes the crucial role of solid business foundations such as capital, labor, and clear goals, highlighting that the hands-on, visible aspects of farming are just a small fraction of what makes a farm successful. Chris candidly contrasts romanticized visions of farming with the logistical and strategic challenges faced in reality.

We then shift focus to the broader challenges of being an entrepreneur, especially for those transitioning from technical roles to management positions. Chris discusses the pitfalls of such transitions, drawing parallels between middle managers and entrepreneurs overwhelmed by their new roles. Our conversation explores Blackbird and Sylvan Aquin's innovative approach to creating a sustainable business model that pays living wages by integrating agribusiness and agriculture. This approach helps offset the low margins in farming by leveraging higher-margin agribusiness activities, aiming to create a system where individuals don't have to be entrepreneurs to succeed.

In the latter part of our episode, we tackle the larger socio-political implications of ethical business growth and the role of social entrepreneurship in challenging capitalism. Chris provides insights into the need for practical business acumen and realistic goals to achieve political and ethical objectives. We also discuss the importance of creating businesses that ethically redistribute wealth, building economic centers that can drive political change. Listen in as we explore the necessity of understanding business fundamentals, maintaining community accountability, and creating a culture of fairness to achieve meaningful progress and sustainable change.

Purchase meat and eggs from the Blackbird Coop here: https://blackbirdcoop.com/

Check out Chris's book First Generation farming here: https://stan.store/sylvanaquafarms/p/first-generation-farming

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:

Farm Business, Ethics, Profitability, Entrepreneurship, Blackbird, Sylvanaqua, Agribusiness, Agriculture, Capital, Labor, Business Plan, Logistical Challenges, Strategic Realities, Romanticized Visions, Solid Business Foundations, Middle Managers, Technical Roles, Management, Sustainable Model, Living Wages, Capitalist Structures, Socio-Political Implications, Social Entrepreneurship, Political Change, Historical Successes, Modern Challenges, Community Accountability, Culture of Fairness, Left-Wing Politics, Ethical Business Choices, Economic Change, Equitable Societal Outcomes

Join us as we kick off season five with a playful and engaging exploration of the fascinating pawpaw fruit, a hidden gem native to North America. In this episode, we uncover the intriguing characteristics of pawpaws, also known by quirky names like the "poor man's banana" and "Indiana banana." Discover how this unique fruit, pollinated by carrion flies and beetles due to its meat-like scented flowers, thrives as an understory tree growing in clusters. We unravel its mysterious historical journey, discussing how pawpaws might be an unusual outlier in North American flora, potentially linked to tropical relatives and ancient survival through past ice ages.

The conversation shifts to the modern challenges faced by the pawpaw tree, focusing on the impacts of suburbanization, industrialization, and invasive species. Despite not being officially endangered, the pawpaw's presence is dwindling, a concern noted by older generations. We reflect on its historical significance, exploring colonial records and the role Indigenous populations played in spreading the tree to northern regions. This backdrop provides valuable insight into the pawpaw's distribution across North America and highlights the importance of preserving this unique fruit.

Listen in as we trace the evolution of pawpaw cultivation, discussing key periods of development and the dedicated efforts of pioneers in the permanent agriculture movement. From the early 20th century to the present day, the episode highlights influential figures and their contributions to pawpaw breeding, including Neil Peterson's breeding program and the work at Kentucky State University. We explore the challenges of bringing pawpaws to mainstream markets, such as their limited shelf life, and share lighthearted anecdotes about enjoying pawpaw-based treats like beer and ice cream. This season promises to shine a spotlight on lesser-known fruits, beginning with the remarkable story of the pawpaw.

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:

Pawpaw Fruit, North America, Pollination, Carrion Flies, Beetles, Ice Ages, Indigenous Practices, Colonial Times, Suburbanization, Invasive Species, Agricultural Heritage, Pawpaw Breeding, Kentucky State University, Pawpaw Cultivation, Perennial Crops, American Genetics Association, Ohio, Indiana, Pawpaw Breeding, Genetic Diversity, Maryland, Susquehanna Pawpaw, Glacial Period, Appalachians, Nutritional Potential, Shelf Stability, Pawpaw Flour, Nutritional Studies, Pawpaw-Based Products, Pawpaw Season, Interview

Kristen, a descendant of the Nipmuc and Mashpee Wampanoag peoples, joins us to share her personal journey with Indigenous rematriation and the Eastern Woodland Rematriation Collective. This episode illuminates the group's mission to honor ancestral territories and matrilineal heritage, bringing to life the evolving process of rematriation. Kristen's insights offer a heartfelt exploration of reimagining our relationship with the land.

We delve into the complex relationship between cultural heritage and environmental restoration, emphasizing the power of multi-generational thinking. Kristen's reflections bridge the gap between Western individualism and Indigenous collective responsibility, illustrating how ancestral teachings guide sustainable practices. Through stories of advocacy and renewed kinship with nature, listeners are invited to embrace long-term commitments to future generations. The conversation also underscores the indispensable role of Indigenous stewardship in preserving biodiversity—especially in the face of settler colonialism's impact on New England.

As we navigate the path to food sovereignty, Kristen paints a vivid picture of the joys and challenges in reclaiming traditional knowledge amidst modern life's systemic barriers. We discuss the beauty of embracing our roles as mentors to the younger generation while appreciating the present moment's unique challenges. The impactful work of Eastern Wilderness Rematriation, supported by WhyHunger, underscores a shared journey towards environmental and cultural sustainability. Tune in to learn how you can support and connect with these vital efforts, paving the way for a more just and sustainable future.

Check out their work! https://rematriate.org/

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 Rematriation, Eastern Woodland Rematriation Collective, Ancestral Territories, Matrilineal Heritage, Reimagining Relationships, Massachusetts, Historical Narratives, Misconceptions, Indigenous Communities, Cultural Heritage, Environmental Restoration, Multi-generational Thinking, Western Individualism, Collective Responsibility, Ancestral Teachings, Sustainable Practices, Advocacy, Kinship with Nature, Biodiversity, Settler Colonialism, Food Sovereignty, Traditional Knowledge, Modern Life, Systemic Barriers, Just Transition, Joy, Mentorship, Climate Change, Unsustainable Systems, WhyHunger, New York City, Local Initiatives, Community, Valuable Work

Ever wondered how ancient Indian farmers managed to cultivate bountiful crops without synthetic chemicals? In this episode, we journey back to around 700 BCE to uncover the ingenious practices detailed in texts like Vrikshaya Veda and the Berkshire Veda. You'll be amazed to learn how these early techniques laid the groundwork for modern organic farming, employing principles that integrated mathematics, health management, and animal care.

We then venture into the heart of these ancient texts, dissecting innovative farming methods that emphasized harmony with the land’s natural uniqueness. From the use of cow dung and composting to the creation of fermented liquid manures, we discuss how these traditional techniques compare to modern sustainable practices like Korean Natural Farming (KNF) and Jadam. You'll get a balanced perspective as we critique contemporary movements such as zero budget natural farming, separating timeless wisdom from pseudoscientific claims.

Next, we delve into specific ancient recipes and their modern counterparts, like the fascinating fermentation process of Kunapajala, a potent liquid manure. We spotlight Surapala’s methods and the impressive yield increases seen in crops like mango, coconut, and kiwi when using these ancient techniques. Whether you’re a farming enthusiast or just curious about ancient practices, this episode promises to be both enlightening and delightfully humorous.

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:

Ancient Indian Farming, Vrikshaya Veda, Berkshire Veda, Traditional Farming, Sustainable Agriculture, Korean Natural Farming, Jadam, Fermented Fertilizers, Organic Fertilizers, Crop Yield, Poultry Waste, Marginalized Communities, Fermentation Process, Nutrient Content, Personal Hygiene, Self-Care, Blue Cash Preferred, American Express

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" continues the story of Efraím Hernández Xolokotzi, a renowned Mexican botanist whose views clashed with the dominant agricultural paradigm of the Green Revolution. The episode focuses on Zolo's experiences at the National Agricultural College in Chapingo (NAC), which was heavily funded and influenced by the Rockefeller Foundation. It highlights the growing tension between Zolo's advocacy for traditional agricultural practices and the school's emphasis on U.S.-style modernization.

Zolo's Early Critique of Agricultural Education in Mexico

• Zolo's critical perspective on agricultural education emerged early on, stemming from his observations of the curriculum and teaching methods at the NAC.
• He believed that the curriculum was too rigid, lacked socioeconomic context, and failed to incorporate indigenous knowledge systems.
• In a 1955 speech, Zolo argued that agronomists should be "fundamentally biologists with agricultural studies," discarding the "old concepts" of rigid categorization.
• He advocated for higher pay for instructors, the requirement of doctorates, and a greater emphasis on research that was relevant to the specific conditions of Mexico.
• Zolo's recommendations were largely ignored by the school's leadership, who continued to prioritize the U.S.-style model of agricultural education.

The NAC: A Microcosm of the Green Revolution's Contradictions

• The episode portrays the NAC as a microcosm of the broader tensions surrounding the Green Revolution in Mexico.
• The Rockefeller Foundation's heavy investment in the school transformed it into a showcase for modern agricultural technology and practices, effectively turning it into a "PR wing" for the American way of growing food.
• The school's emphasis on technology and industrial-scale farming contrasted sharply with the traditional, small-scale agriculture practiced by most Mexican farmers.
• Zolo's concerns about the erasure of indigenous knowledge and the potential negative impacts of modernization were echoed by a growing number of students who became increasingly critical of the school's curriculum and direction.

Student Unrest and the Persistence of a Revolutionary Spirit

• Despite the NAC's emphasis on discipline and conformity, a strong undercurrent of revolutionary spirit persisted within the student body.
• This was influenced by the school's history, particularly a traumatic incident during the Mexican Revolution where students witnessed an execution on campus.
• Students became increasingly vocal in their criticisms, expressing concerns about the disconnect between their education and the realities of Mexican agriculture.
• They complained about the quality of instruction, the lack of practical knowledge, and the school's focus on training "agronomic factory workers" rather than researchers and innovators.
• Student activism manifested in various forms, including protests, boycotts, and critical articles in the student newspaper.

Zolo's Increasingly Outspoken Critique of the Green Revolution

• By 1960, the negative impacts of the Green Revolution were becoming more apparent, and Zolo's critique became increasingly pointed.
• He publicly denounced the destruction of Mexican identity and the ecological damage caused by the push for modernization.
• He argued that the Green Revolution was creating "poor imitations of agriculture in other countries" and failing to address the socioeconomic realities of Mexican farmers.
• Zolo continued to advocate for the incorporation of traditional knowledge into agricultural education, emphasizing the importance of learning from campesino farmers.
• He saw the elders and adults within indigenous communities as vital repositories of knowledge, highlighting their "empirical method" that had been tested over generations.

A Clash of Agricultural Philosophies

• The episode underscores the fundamental clash of philosophies between Zolo's approach and the dominant paradigm of the Green Revolution.
• Zolo's emphasis on biodiversity, ecological balance, and the preservation of traditional knowledge stood in stark contrast to the focus on maximizing yields through technological interventions.
• His vision for a sustainable and culturally appropriate agriculture was at odds with the push for uniformity and standardization that characterized the Green Revolution.
• The episode sets the stage for Zolo's continued resistance to the Green Revolution and his efforts to promote a more holistic and equitable approach to agriculture in Mexico.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/

Elliott & Matt are back to discuss the oak tree, acorns, whether or not Elliott works for the CIA, and the pecularities of processing acorns. 

 

The Quercus genus is arguably the most important genus for all living things on earth, including humans. Spanning 55 million years, five continents, over six hundred species, including over ninety of which are here in North America, the oak tree is a central figure in folklore across the globe.

Found as both deciduous and evergreens, as massive keystone trees in forests, and as small shrubs, it’s no surprise that the ubiquitous oak is a foundational part of human existence. Oaks provide us with food, firewood, building materials, tannins for processing the leathers that shielded us from the elements, and feed for the animals and fungi we also consume. Our existence is predicated on their existence, and that’s clearly manifested in its cultural significance, from the names of places (such as Oakland) to its central role in religions (such as paganism).

 

Check out the substack article for sources cited and a more extensive review of the subjects discussed in this episode!

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/oaks-and-acorns

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/

 

In this episode, we're diving into the history of Tiny Forests and the man behind them, Akira Miyawaki. There's a complex framework to this seemingly simple process of super-dense forests, and we discuss how it's been appropriated without context in permaculture, and what tree clusters should look like and the science behind it.

To get Miyawaki's book in the US, visit: 

https://www.buddhistcenter-rkina.org/product-page/the-healing-power-of-forest

 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list.

 

 

Sources:

https://www.nippon.com/en/in-depth/d00789/ 1

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969721040249 2

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/plantbiotechnology1997/16/1/16_1_15/_pdf/-char/en 3

https://urban-forests.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Urban-Forests-report-The-Miyawaki-method-%E2%80%93-Data-concepts.pdf 4

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/education/news/shubhendu-clears-misconceptions-about-miyawaki-methodology/articleshow/70798962.cms 5

https://news.mongabay.com/2022/06/in-jordan-the-middle-easts-first-miyawaki-style-baby-forests-take-root/ 6

https://www.crowdforesting.org/minimum-size-of-a-miyawaki-forest 7

"The Healing Power of Forests: The Philosophy Behind Restoring Earth's Balance with Native Trees" by Akira Miyawaki

 

Last week we spoke with Vijay Kumar Thallam to discuss the development of Andhra Pradesh's natural farming movement to feed 50 million people in a few short years; in this episode we're joined by two of the women who are part of this movement. We’re joined with H. Vanurakka, or Vanu, from Durudakunta village of Kalyandurgam Mandal in the Anantapur District & Konda Usha Rani, or Usha, of the Nutakki Village in the Guntur district. They’re both single women farmers.

 

This episode is particularly special, as our host for this episode was none other than our friend Dr. Ayesha Khan, and some of the translation voiceovers were provided by Nash Flynn. Make sure to check out their work at both The Disorderland Podcast & the Death and Friends podcast, respectively.
 

 

You can follow their story on Facebook: Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming

Twitter & Instagram: @APZBNF

https://apcnf.in/
 

 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list.

Can suburban backyards become the cornerstone of our sustainable future? Join us as we dissect the ideas in David Holmgren's "Retro Suburbia," where he envisions a world shaped by energy descent and societal degrowth. We kick off with Holmgren's strategic re-release of his book during the COVID-19 pandemic and his bold claims, examining the validity of his assertions and his data. Holmgren's blended manual-manifesto style of his work are scrutinized for their impact and credibility.

While Holmgren's vision is compelling, we challenge the individualistic ethos often echoed by prominent permaculture figures. By contrasting historical communal living with today's nuclear solutions, we advocate for more pragmatic, collective approaches like shared canning centers and communal storage. We delve into the impracticalities of doubling household infrastructures and emphasize the efficiency of systemic community-based solutions, arguing that resilience and sustainability are best achieved through collective action rather than individual endeavors.

In our deep dive into Holmgren's more controversial ideas, we confront his views on human waste management, suburban farming, and population control. Highlighting the need for scientific validation and proper hygiene practices, we question the feasibility and ethics behind some of Holmgren's proposals. From the romanticization of self-sufficiency to troubling perspectives on genetics and women's roles, we stress the importance of critical assessment within the permaculture movement.

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/

Retro Suburbia, David Holmgren, Permaculture, Community, Energy Descent, COVID-19, Academic Discussions, Individualistic Narratives, Systemic Solutions, Communal Living, Household Infrastructures, Water Management, Waste Management, Human Waste, Hygiene Practices, Urban Food Production, Population Control, Genetic Legacy, Agroecology, Sustainability

Scott Nearing is another name that likely hasn’t reached most folks’ ears who may be searching for leaders in the agriculture-socialist-homesteader space, but Scott’s career spanned a wide and varied path from academics to activism to homesteading. His life was as diverse as it was long, and much of what we know from the counterculture movement of the 70s that centered on self-sufficiency stemmed from his specific brand.

 

However, Nearing's politics and identity as a class traitor is a bit more complex than it appears on the surface, and we explore how Scott's positions evolved and what new evidence suggests about his vision of "living the good life".

 

 

To read about Scott Nearing's contributions to history, check out the following substack for sources and further details: https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/scott-nearing

 

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

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For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

Can our suburban lawns become thriving ecosystems that support wildlife and biodiversity? This week, we're thrilled to welcome Dr. Doug Tallamy, a renowned entomologist, ecologist, and conservationist, who shares his groundbreaking insights on the vital importance of native plants in our landscapes. Dr. Tallamy passionately argues against the notion that humanity is separate from nature, instead advocating for the integration of ecological principles into our everyday environments. We discuss the unsustainable nature of unchecked development and the crucial role biodiversity plays in maintaining the planet's life-support systems.

Delving into the significant ecological contributions of oak trees, Dr. Tallamy reveals how these keystone species support a vast array of caterpillars and other wildlife. He explains how oaks excel in carbon sequestration and watershed management, making them indispensable to healthy ecosystems. However, their survival is threatened by over-harvesting and the suppression of natural fire cycles. We also tackle the misconceptions about non-native plants and their detrimental impact on local biodiversity, focusing on the ecological advantages of native plants like goldenrod.

We wrap up by exploring the Homegrown National Park initiative, a grassroots movement aiming to reduce lawn areas and replace them with native plants to restore ecological functions. Dr. Tallamy highlights the importance of community involvement and policy engagement in promoting sustainable landscaping practices. This inspiring conversation offers practical ways for individuals to contribute to conservation efforts and underscores the collective impact we can achieve. Tune in to learn how you can be part of the solution and create a more sustainable, beautiful environment in your own backyard.

Dr. Doug Tallamy is an American entomologist, ecologist and conservationist. He is a professor in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. He has written and co-authored several books, as well as many papers. Tallamy advocates for home gardens and landscaping that bridge the gaps between parks and preserves in providing habitat for native species

You can check out Dr. Tallamy's work at:

https://www.homegrownnationalpark.org/

https://www.udel.edu/canr/departments/entomology-and-wildlife-ecology/faculty-staff/doug-tallamy/

 

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:

Conservation, Sustainable Landscapes, Native Plants, Biodiversity, Ecological Principles, Keystone Species, Oaks, Caterpillars, Wildlife, Carbon Sequestration, Watershed Management, Invasive Species, Goldenrod, Homegrown National Park, Grassroots Movement, Community Engagement, Policy Engagement, Industrial Agriculture, Urban Development, Traditional Ecological Knowledge

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" explores the crucial role microbes play in the nitrogen cycle within the soil. The hosts, Andy and Elliot, along with guest host Matt, break down complex biological processes into an accessible and humorous discussion. They emphasize how understanding these microbial interactions can help both home gardeners and large-scale agricultural operations move away from commercial fertilizers and embrace more sustainable practices.

Soil as a Complex Ecosystem

The episode begins by recapping the basic principles of soil ecology covered in previous episodes, reminding listeners that soil is not simply inert dirt, but a dynamic ecosystem teeming with life. Plants form the foundation of this ecosystem by releasing exudates, which feed bacteria and fungi. These microbes then make nutrients more accessible to the plants, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.

The hosts explain that this complex web of interactions extends beyond just plants and microbes, encompassing organisms like protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods. This diversity within the soil food web is essential for maintaining a healthy balance and ensuring the continuous cycling of nutrients.

The Importance of Nitrogen

The episode focuses specifically on nitrogen, a vital nutrient for plant growth, and how microbes impact its availability within the soil. When organisms within the soil food web die or are consumed, some of the nitrogen they contain is released as waste in the form of ammonium. Special bacteria, known as nitrifying bacteria, then convert this ammonium into nitrates.

The Role of pH in Nitrogen Availability

The hosts emphasize that the pH of the soil plays a crucial role in determining whether nitrogen is present as ammonium or nitrates. Nitrifying bacteria thrive in high pH, bacterially dominated soils. In low pH soils, however, these bacteria are less prevalent, and the nitrogen remains in the form of ammonium.

The episode highlights the importance of understanding these pH dynamics when it comes to fertilizing plants. Commercial fertilizers are almost always in the form of nitrates, which are suitable for high pH soils but not for plants that prefer low pH conditions. This disparity underscores the importance of tailoring fertilization practices to the specific needs of plants and their corresponding soil environment.

The Interplay of Soil Structure and Microbial Activity

The discussion then shifts to soil structure, particularly the cation exchange capacity (CEC), which refers to the ability of the soil to hold onto nutrients and water. The hosts explain that lower pH soils, like those found in forests, generally have a lower CEC. However, the presence of organic matter in forest soils can help mitigate this by providing similar properties to neutral pH soils.

The hosts underscore the critical role of hydroscopic water, a thin film of water that surrounds soil particles and is essential for microbial survival. Even in dry conditions, this hydroscopic water remains bound to the soil, providing a crucial lifeline for the microbial community.

Bacteria and Fungi: Key Players in Decomposition

The episode then goes into detail about two primary decomposers in the soil food web: bacteria and fungi. Bacteria are the second most common decomposers, breaking down organic matter into simpler molecules like sugars, fatty acids, and amino acids.

Fungi, on the other hand, are the number one decomposers worldwide, capable of breaking down more complex materials like lignin and cellulose, as well as insect shells and even bones. Their ability to move nutrients across soil horizons makes fungi particularly important in building soil structure and fertility.

Fungal Dominance in Forests

The hosts connect the dominance of fungi in forest soils to the lower pH environment typically found in forests. Fungi are more tolerant of low pH conditions than bacteria, explaining why forests tend to have a higher fungal-to-bacterial ratio.

The episode explains that as fungi break down organic matter, they release enzymes that are acidic, further lowering the soil pH. This acidification, in turn, inhibits the growth of nitrifying bacteria, leading to a greater abundance of ammonium, the preferred form of nitrogen for trees.

Practical Applications for Gardeners

The hosts offer practical advice for gardeners based on these microbial principles. For instance, they suggest building bacterially dominated mulches using green materials like grass clippings to promote bacterial activity and reduce weeds. Conversely, using surface mulches composed of materials like shredded leaves can encourage fungal activity, which is beneficial for trees and other plants that prefer ammonium.

The Importance of Soil Building

The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of building healthy soil by fostering a diverse microbial community. Adding fertilizers alone is not a sustainable solution, as the nutrients are quickly lost without the microbes to cycle them back into the soil. By understanding the intricate relationship between microbes and nitrogen, gardeners and farmers can cultivate thriving ecosystems that support healthy plant growth while minimizing reliance on synthetic inputs.

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

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For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

The butternut walnut is arguably the least known nut tree across eastern North America. Often called the white walnut or the oil nut, it grows throughout the northeastern United States. Once a prized tree for furniture-making, carving, and boats, as well as the delicious nuts, it’s mostly been lost to history today. Unfortunately, its story is similar to the American Chestnut. Butternut Canker Disease (caused by the fungus Ophiognomonia clavigignenti-juglandacearum), was first discovered in the 1960’s (although it may have been in American forests earlier) and has slowly decimated butternut populations across the country, with few regions to the north still showing little signs of butternut canker.

In this episode, we review this history of the butternut, the problems with hybridizing it, and the future of the butternut in North America!

 

Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information!

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/the-forgotten-butternut

 

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/

 

This episode details the financial and legal collapse of American Energy Farming Systems (AEFS) as its grand plans for the Jerusalem artichoke fall apart. The episode explores the company's internal financial mismanagement, the legal fallout from its unsustainable business practices, and the key players' fates as the artichoke bubble bursts.

AEFS's Financial House of Cards: A Trail of Reckless Spending and Dubious Accounting

The episode reveals a pattern of financial mismanagement and questionable practices within AEFS, highlighting the company's disregard for basic accounting principles and blatant disregard for legal and ethical boundaries.

• Ignoring warnings: Despite repeated warnings from auditing firms about their irregular financial practices, AEFS owners, Dwyer and Hendrickson, continued to treat company funds as personal piggy banks.
• Mixing personal and company funds: The owners consistently blurred the lines between personal and company finances, using corporate funds for personal expenses, advances, and even credit card payments.
• Exploiting tax loopholes: AEFS opted to operate under Subchapter S of the Internal Revenue Code, which allowed them to be taxed as a partnership. This structure, however, backfired when their excessive withdrawals from the company triggered significant tax liabilities, particularly as the business began to fail.
• Fabricating profits: The company deceptively counted future sales against advances taken from company accounts, creating a false impression of financial stability while masking their reckless spending.
• Manipulating land deals: Dwyer and Hendrickson used company funds to purchase personal farms, which they then leased back to AEFS at inflated prices, further enriching themselves at the company's expense.
• Engaging in self-dealing: Dwyer, through his construction company Dwyer Inc., engaged in blatant self-dealing, buying seed at low prices and selling it back to AEFS at a significant markup. Additionally, Dwyer Inc. received substantial unsecured loans from AEFS, creating a web of financial entanglements that further drained the company's resources.
• The Challenge Fund Scheme: Reverend Kramer, with Dwyer's support, established the "Challenge Fund," purportedly to lend money to high-risk growers. In reality, the fund served as a mechanism to dispose of excess seed, generate dubious financial paper, and potentially raise cash for personal use, further blurring the lines between religious endeavors and financial exploitation.

Legal Reckoning: Investigations, Indictments, and a Fortunate Legal Loophole

As AEFS's financial woes mounted and the truth about its operations surfaced, legal troubles intensified. Multiple investigations, including those by the Minnesota Attorney General's office, the FBI, and U.S. postal inspectors, converged on AEFS, culminating in criminal indictments.

• Settling with the Minnesota Attorney General: AEFS agreed to pay a $40,000 fine, modify its sales practices, and offer growers the option to rescind their contracts. However, with limited cash on hand, the company could not fulfill its financial obligations, leading to further legal action.
• Facing a Grand Jury: Attorney Peter Kasol, driven by personal connections to individuals who lost money due to AEFS, pursued a criminal case against Dwyer, Hendrickson, and Kramer. This relentless pursuit led to grand jury indictments despite the company's belief that Kasol was a pawn of Big Agriculture.
• A Fortunate Legal Loophole: In a surprising turn of events, the state legislature inadvertently decriminalized the charge of diverting corporate assets while redrafting the relevant statutes. This legal technicality significantly weakened the prosecution's case, leading to a less severe punishment for the AEFS executives.

The Aftermath: Bankruptcy, Evasion, and New Ventures

AEFS eventually declared bankruptcy, leaving a trail of unpaid debts and disillusioned investors. The episode details the final financial accounting, revealing that Dwyer, Hendrickson, and Kramer siphoned millions from the company, further highlighting the extent of their financial malfeasance.

• Dwyer's Downfall: Dwyer received a non-dischargeable debt of $815,000, faced property liens, and served jail time for theft by swindle. Despite his legal troubles, he remained unrepentant, blaming external forces for AEFS's failure.
• Hendrickson's Continued Delusions: Hendrickson, despite receiving a non-dischargeable debt of $50,000 and serving a prison sentence, continued to promote the Jerusalem artichoke, envisioning a new age of cooperative farming amidst global famine. He later shifted his focus to the urban underclass, predicting an uprising in 1992.
• Kramer's Return to Evangelism: Kramer, burdened with a non-dischargeable debt of $250,000, returned to his religious endeavors, promoting conspiracy theories and blaming other evangelists for his downfall.

Lasting Impressions: The Arrogance of Deception and the Allure of the Con

The episode concludes by highlighting the audacity and arrogance of Dwyer, Hendrickson, and Kramer, who even after their downfall, continued to deflect blame, manipulate situations, and exploit others for personal gain. Their actions serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambition, the allure of get-rich-quick schemes, and the manipulative power of charismatic leadership.

The story of AEFS remains a cautionary tale about the human capacity for self-deception, the fragility of trust, and the importance of critical thinking in the face of extraordinary claims, particularly when intertwined with religious fervor and the promise of financial windfalls.

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/

Unlock the secrets of one of America's forgotten tree heroes, the Ozark chinkapin, as we chat with Steve Bost, the passionate founder of the Ozark Chinkapin Foundation. Discover the compelling story of this majestic tree, once thriving in our forests, now on the brink of vanishing due to the devastating chestnut blight. Steve shares insights into the extensive research and DNA studies being conducted to unravel the genetic mysteries of the Ozark chinkapin and the foundation's relentless efforts in preserving its legacy against the odds.

Explore the vital role human activity plays in both the spread and control of invasive species that threaten our native ecosystems. We highlight the resilient nature of the Ozark chinkapin, which could hold clues to climate adaptability and ecological restoration. This episode sheds light on the complexities of breeding programs designed to foster trees with blight resistance and drought tolerance, while also revealing surprising allies like neotropical birds that contribute to these ecological endeavors.

Join us on a journey through history and ecology, as we rediscover the interconnectedness of species like the American buffalo and native plants, shaped by traditional conservation practices. Steve and his team not only focus on the science but also emphasize the importance of community involvement in restoration efforts. Learn how you can become part of this crucial mission to protect our natural heritage and support the Ozark Chinkapin Foundation's inspiring work.

If you're unfamiliar with the chinquapin, you can check out the previous episode or read the piece linked below to learn more!

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/chinquapins

To learn more about the Ozark Chinquapin Foundation, check out the following link:

https://ozarkchinquapinmembership.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:
Ozark Chinkapin, Tree, Foundation, Conservation, Invasive Species, Ecosystem, Genetic Research, DNA Studies, Chestnut Blight, Native Plant Species, Breeding Programs, Climate Adaptability, Ecological Restoration, American Buffalo, Traditional Conservation Practices, Community Involvement, Environmental Changes, Donations, Volunteering, Awareness

This episode picks up where the previous episode left off, exploring Erna Bennett's work with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and her increasing criticisms of the Green Revolution's impact on global agriculture. The episode portrays Bennett as a dedicated scientist who challenged powerful interests within the FAO and the broader agricultural establishment to advocate for a more nuanced and ecologically sound approach to food production.

Bennett's Critique of Seed Banks: "More Artifacts Than Resources"

Building on her earlier work in genecology, Bennett argued that simply storing seeds in banks was insufficient for protecting plant genetic diversity. She believed that removing seeds from their natural environments and storing them in controlled conditions halted the evolutionary processes that allowed plants to adapt to changing environments and pressures. This critique challenged the prevailing view that seed banks were the primary solution to genetic erosion. Bennett stressed that preserving the dynamic relationship between plants and their environments was essential for maintaining their evolutionary potential. She likened seed banks to museums, preserving artifacts rather than living, evolving organisms. This perspective, although initially controversial, has gained traction in contemporary discussions about the limitations of seed banks and the need for complementary conservation strategies.

Challenging the "Plug and Play" Approach to Plant Breeding

Bennett criticized the dominant approach to plant breeding during the Green Revolution, which focused on isolating and manipulating individual genes to achieve specific traits, such as high yields or disease resistance. She argued that this reductionist perspective overlooked the complex interactions between multiple genes and the environment. She likened this approach to the simplistic Punnett squares used to illustrate basic Mendelian inheritance, highlighting the inadequacy of such models for understanding the intricate web of genetic interactions in real-world ecosystems. Instead, Bennett advocated for a more holistic understanding of plant genetics, emphasizing the need to conserve entire genotypes – the complete set of genes within an organism – to preserve the full range of adaptive potential.

The Importance of Local Knowledge: Echoes of Efraím Hernández Xolokotzi

Just like Efraím Hernández Xolokotzi, whose story was explored in previous episodes, Bennett recognized the vital role of local knowledge in understanding and preserving plant diversity. She argued that seed collections should be accompanied by meticulous documentation of local agricultural practices, cultural traditions, and environmental variations. This emphasis on integrating scientific knowledge with the wisdom of farming communities directly challenged the top-down, technocratic approach often associated with the Green Revolution.

Clashing with Otto Frankel: A Debate on the Practicality of In Situ Conservation

The episode highlights a key intellectual debate between Bennett and Otto Frankel, a prominent geneticist and advocate for the Green Revolution. Frankel argued that preserving landraces – locally adapted varieties – in their original environments was impractical in a world where those environments were rapidly changing. He questioned the purpose of in situ conservation when agricultural landscapes were undergoing significant transformations. Bennett countered that while Frankel's concerns were valid, the solution lay not in abandoning in situ conservation but in adapting it to dynamic conditions. This disagreement underscores the tension between preserving traditional agricultural practices and adapting to the pressures of modernization.

The Green Revolution's Blind Spot: Communities Feeding Themselves as a Threat

The episode delves into the ideological underpinnings of the Green Revolution, arguing that it was based on a belief that Western science was necessary to "save" the world from hunger and that communities feeding themselves were somehow a negative outcome. Frankel's skepticism towards Bennett's focus on local food production is framed as evidence of this worldview. The hosts suggest that Frankel, and by extension the Green Revolution's proponents, saw the goal of agriculture not as empowering communities to provide for themselves, but as integrating them into a globalized system of food production and consumption. This interpretation aligns with critiques of the Green Revolution that highlight its role in promoting industrial agriculture and corporate control over food systems.

Corporatization of Seed Banks: The "Personal Resource Bank" Problem

The episode explores how seed banks, initially intended as a public good, became increasingly vulnerable to corporate interests. Bennett observed that certain companies viewed these publicly funded collections as their own private resource banks, seeking to acquire and control valuable genetic material for commercial purposes. The hosts draw a parallel between this phenomenon and the strategies employed by companies like Kellogg's, which dominate supermarket shelves by acquiring and controlling multiple brands. This comparison highlights how corporate consolidation can undermine public institutions and erode access to essential resources, including genetic diversity.

Silencing Dissent: Bennett's Struggle Against Corporate Influence within the FAO

Bennett's outspoken criticisms of corporate influence within the FAO led to increasing marginalization and silencing. Her superiors pressured her to downplay her concerns, and she was eventually isolated from research activities and prohibited from attending meetings without explicit permission. This treatment reveals the power dynamics within international organizations and how dissenting voices can be marginalized, particularly when they challenge the interests of powerful corporations.

Bennett's Departure from the FAO: A Blaze of Glory and Lasting Impact

The episode culminates in Bennett's dramatic exit from the FAO in 1981, after 20 years of service. She refused to retract a scathing critique of the FAO's complicity in promoting corporate interests, which was accidentally released to the public. Her resignation on May Day, followed by her participation in a May Day march in Rome, is presented as a symbolic act of defiance against capitalist exploitation and a commitment to worker solidarity.

Despite facing significant opposition, Bennett's work had a lasting impact on the field of plant genetic resources. Her early warnings about the dangers of genetic erosion helped to raise awareness of the issue and contributed to the development of international agreements aimed at conserving plant diversity. The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of recovering and amplifying Bennett's story, which has been largely obscured, perhaps intentionally, from mainstream narratives about the Green Revolution. T

It's worth noting that this episode, while based on historical research, is presented through the lens of the hosts' specific political perspectives. They openly identify themselves as "proles" and frequently critique capitalism and corporate influence. Therefore, it is important to consider their potential biases when interpreting their analysis of Bennett's story and the broader context of the Green Revolution.

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 dive into the history and use of the American hazelnut. Often an afterthought in nut production, the American hazelnut offers significant potential as a food crop while also offering critical ecosystem services. We compare its production to other tree crops and discuss where breeding work for American hazelnuts should focus to bring this plant back into food crop discussions.

 

Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/the-american-hazelnut

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/

 

Denmark Vesey, a carpenter and formerly enslaved person, allegedly planned an enslaved insurrection to coincide with Bastille Day in Charleston, South Carolina in 1822. Vesey modeled his rebellion after the successful 1791 slave revolution in Haiti. His plans called for his followers to execute the white enslavers, liberate the city of Charleston, and then sail to Haiti before the white power structure could retaliate.

Vesey and several of his co-conspirators worshiped at the African Church, the AME congregation which became Mother Emanuel after the Civil War. Along with white abolitionists in the North, Vesey referenced the Bible in his attacks on the institution of slavery. In the aftermath of the execution, white Charlestonians tore down the church and supported new efforts to control the black majority. Funds were appropriated to support a Municipal Guard of 150 men and the construction of "a Citadel" to house them and weapons. In 1843, the structure became home to the cadets of the South Carolina Military Academy.

Additionally, as Vesey's rebellion relied on assistance from free black sailors, South Carolina passed legislation known as the Negro Seamen Acts. The act called for the incarceration of visiting free black sailors in local jails while their vessel remained in Charleston to eliminate contact between free black sailors from outside of South Carolina and black Charlestonians. Despite protests from northern states and British consuls, South Carolina stubbornly insisted on its right to police its population in this way.

Denmark Vesey was later held up as a hero among abolitionists, including Frederick Douglass, during the Civil War. Douglass used Vesey's name as a rallying cry in recruiting and inspiring African American troops, including the 54th Massachusetts Infantry. Vesey's son, Robert, attended the April 14, 1865 ceremony at Fort Sumter. Today, however, his name remains largely unknown despite his foundational role in accelerating further slave rebellions and ultimately the civil war itself. We discuss why this is the case and what lessons can be learned from this story.

 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list. For the supplemental reader that goes along with the podcast, visit:

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com

 

Sources:

Jeremy Schipper “Denmark Vesey’s Bible”

https://userpages.umbc.edu/~bouton/History407/SlaveStats.htm

https://www.ccpl.org/charleston-time-machine/defining-charlestons-free-people-color

This episode of The Poor Proles Almanac centers on the varroa destructor, a parasitic mite that poses a significant threat to honeybee populations worldwide. The hosts discuss the history of the varroa mite, its devastating impact on honeybee colonies, and explore various approaches to managing this persistent pest.

The Varroa Mite: A Global Threat to Honeybees

The varroa mite, described as a "tiny mite that is basically like a tick for bees", was first discovered in Asia in 1904, parasitizing the Asian honeybee (Apis cerana). Through the movement of Western honeybee (Apis mellifera) colonies, the mite spread to Africa and Europe in the mid-20th century and eventually reached the United States in 1987. Since then, it has rapidly spread across the globe, devastating honeybee populations and posing a serious challenge to beekeepers and the agricultural industry.

The Destructive Impact of Varroa Mites

Unlike Asian honeybees, which have co-evolved with the varroa mite and developed mechanisms to control its population, European honeybees, the primary species used in commercial beekeeping, lack natural defenses against this parasite. The mites primarily target developing brood (larvae and pupae) in the hive, feeding on their hemolymph (bee "blood") and transmitting harmful viruses. This infestation weakens the bees, leading to malformations, reduced lifespan, impaired flight performance, and ultimately, colony collapse.

Chemical Treatments: A Short-Term Solution with Long-Term Consequences

Initially, beekeepers relied heavily on insecticides, particularly pyrethroids, to control varroa mite infestations. However, the mites quickly developed resistance to these chemicals, leading to a cycle of new treatments and subsequent resistance. The widespread use of chemical treatments also raises concerns about potential negative impacts on bee health, honey contamination, and the environment.

Exploring Alternative Management Strategies

Recognizing the limitations and potential downsides of chemical treatments, the hosts discuss alternative approaches to varroa mite management, highlighting the need for sustainable and long-term solutions.

Plant Extracts: The episode explores the use of plant extracts, such as garlic, as a natural method for varroa control. While some extracts have shown promising results in laboratory settings, their efficacy in real-world hive conditions and potential impacts on developing bees require further investigation.

Breeding Resistant Bees: The hosts showcase successful examples of varroa-resistant honeybee populations, particularly in Cuba, where bees have naturally developed mechanisms to coexist with the mites without significant colony losses. This example highlights the potential for selective breeding programs to enhance natural resistance traits in honeybee populations.

Drone Brood Removal: Drawing on a previous episode about drones, the hosts mention the practice of removing drone brood comb from hives as a method for reducing varroa mite populations. Since varroa mites prefer to reproduce in drone brood, strategically removing infested combs can help control mite levels while allowing the bees to develop some tolerance.

Slowing Down Mite Reproduction: Research has shown that slowing down varroa mite reproduction within the hive can give bees more time to adapt and develop natural defense mechanisms. This approach focuses on reducing mite pressure rather than complete eradication, allowing for a more balanced co-existence between bees and mites.

RNA Interference: The episode touches on the use of RNA interference technology, a cutting-edge approach that targets the genetic mechanisms of varroa mite reproduction, potentially disrupting their ability to reproduce and spread. While this technology holds promise, concerns remain about its potential long-term ecological impacts and the ethical implications of genetically manipulating honeybees.

The Need for a Holistic Approach: Rethinking Beekeeping Practices

The hosts emphasize that effectively addressing the varroa mite challenge requires a holistic approach that goes beyond simply finding a "silver bullet" solution. They advocate for a shift in beekeeping practices, moving away from heavy reliance on chemical treatments and embracing strategies that promote natural bee defenses and ecological balance.

Reducing Transportation Stress: The practice of migratory beekeeping, where hives are transported long distances for pollination services, has been implicated in spreading varroa mites and other diseases. The hosts suggest reducing the stress associated with transportation to improve bee health and resilience.

Improving Bee Nutrition: The importance of providing bees with a diverse and nutritious diet is highlighted, with the hosts cautioning against over-reliance on sugar water as a primary food source. Ensuring access to natural forage and supplementing with high-quality pollen substitutes can enhance bee health and immune function.

Learning from Wild Bees: Studying the behavior and adaptations of wild honeybee populations, which have often developed natural resistance to varroa mites and other threats, can provide valuable insights for improving beekeeping practices. By observing how bees thrive in natural environments, beekeepers can adopt more sustainable and bee-centric approaches.

The Future of Honeybees: Embracing a Balanced Coexistence

The episode concludes with a message of hope, suggesting that a balanced co-existence between honeybees and varroa mites is possible through a combination of responsible beekeeping practices, selective breeding, and a deeper understanding of the complex ecological dynamics at play. The hosts emphasize that by working with nature, rather than against it, we can ensure the health and resilience of honeybee populations for generations to come.

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," titled "Episode 145 #10: Sending Bees to the Cube Farm; the Reverand's Langstroth Hive," explores the history, design, and limitations of the Langstroth hive, the most common type of beehive used in modern beekeeping. The hosts, Andy and Elliot, use their characteristic humor to unpack the complexities of this widely adopted hive model, highlighting its advantages, shortcomings, and potential alternatives.

The Langstroth Hive: A Revolutionary Design with Enduring Legacy

The episode introduces Reverend Lorenzo Langstroth, an American clergyman and beekeeper often hailed as the "father of American beekeeping." While acknowledging that Langstroth didn't invent the concept of removable frames, the hosts credit him with discovering the "bee space," a crucial gap of approximately one centimeter that prevents bees from gluing frames together with propolis, a resinous substance bees use for hive construction and maintenance. This innovation allowed for easy inspection and manipulation of hive components without damaging the comb or disrupting the colony.

The hosts emphasize that Langstroth's discovery, although significant, wasn't entirely unique. A Polish apiarist, Dr. Jan Dzierzon, had actually identified the same bee space 20 years prior and applied it to top-bar hives. However, Langstroth's design gained widespread recognition and adoption, largely due to its simplicity, affordability, and ease of use.

Anatomy of a Langstroth Hive: From Roof to Bottom Board

The hosts provide a detailed breakdown of the basic components of a Langstroth hive:

• Outer Cover: The roof of the hive, providing protection from the elements.
• Inner Cover: A barrier between the outer cover and the hive body, preventing bees from gluing the roof down and aiding in ventilation.
• Supers: Boxes placed above the hive body for honey storage.
• Queen Excluder: A mesh screen that prevents the queen from laying eggs in the supers, ensuring honey purity.
• Hive Body (Mediums or Deeps): Boxes where the bees live and raise brood. Mediums are shorter and lighter than deeps, making them easier to handle.
• Frames: Wooden structures within the hive body and supers that hold the honeycomb.
• Foundation: Sheets of beeswax imprinted with a hexagonal pattern, providing a guide for bees to build their comb uniformly.
• Bottom Board: The floor of the hive, providing an entrance for the bees.

The "Hot Potato" Problem: Disrupting Natural Bee Behavior

While acknowledging the advantages of the Langstroth hive, the hosts criticize the conventional practice of rotating hive boxes, which they humorously refer to as the "hot potato" method. This technique involves regularly shuffling the position of hive bodies and supers to encourage bees to build comb and store honey in desired locations. The hosts argue that this constant manipulation disrupts the natural bee behavior of building downward from the top of a cavity, potentially stressing the colony and hindering their ability to prepare adequately for winter.

They point out that conventional beekeeping often involves harvesting honey from the supers during the summer, leaving the bees with insufficient stores for the colder months. To compensate, beekeepers typically feed bees sugar water, which, while providing calories, lacks the nutritional complexity of natural honey.

Insulation: A Forgotten Factor in Modern Beekeeping

The hosts express concern that modern Langstroth hives are often constructed with thinner wood than those used in Langstroth's time, compromising insulation and forcing bees to expend more energy to maintain hive temperature. They advocate for a return to thicker hive walls and the incorporation of insulation materials to reduce stress on the colony and enhance their ability to thrive.

They cite research indicating that insulated hives may not produce more honey but contribute to higher bee survival rates due to reduced mortality from cold stress. This suggests that insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining colony strength and resilience.

Rethinking Hive Design: Exploring Alternatives to the Langstroth

The hosts explore alternative hive designs that address some of the limitations of the traditional Langstroth model:

• Long Langstroth Hives: These hives, resembling top-bar hives in their horizontal layout, provide bees with a larger, continuous space to build their comb and store honey, mimicking their natural nesting behavior. This design eliminates the need for box rotation and reduces disturbance to the colony.
• Extra Deep Frames: Using deeper frames within a Langstroth hive can provide bees with more space to store honey above the brood nest, allowing them to prepare more effectively for winter.

While acknowledging the benefits of these alternatives, the hosts recognize that the Langstroth hive remains the dominant model in conventional beekeeping due to its portability and ease of management in large-scale operations. They suggest that the choice of hive design depends on the individual beekeeper's goals, resources, and commitment to promoting bee health and natural behavior.

Moving Beyond the "Honeymaking Machine": A Holistic Approach to Beekeeping

The episode concludes with a call for a more holistic approach to beekeeping that recognizes bees as "living intelligent creatures" rather than simply honey production units. The hosts advocate for a shift in beekeeping practices that prioritize:

• Reducing Stress: Minimizing hive manipulation and transportation to allow bees to build and manage their homes naturally.
• Improving Nutrition: Providing bees with access to diverse and nutritious forage, reducing reliance on sugar water supplements.
• Learning from Wild Bees: Observing the behavior and adaptations of wild bee populations to gain insights into sustainable beekeeping practices.

The hosts emphasize that a balanced co-existence between bees and humans is possible through a deeper understanding of bee biology, a respect for their natural behaviors, and a commitment to promoting hive health and resilience.

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 last week's episode, we dove into the confluence of veterans from the Vietnam War returning home, the collapse of the agricultural sector, and the rise of white supremacy. All of these coalesced into a movement centered around white supremacy and Christianity.  This week, we're exploring how this movement evolved into the 21st century. From homesteads to compounds, violence fomented between these radicals and the federal government (as well as towards non-whites and other marginalized people). How did this evolve into the more nuanced white supremacy movement that dances around acceptable forms of racism today?

 

To read about this movement further, check out the following substack for sources and further details:

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/homesteading-and-white-supremacy 

 

This episode is sponsored by: Eric Toensmeier at https://www.perennialsolutions.org/

Check out his upcoming class!

 

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/

We're joined once again by Nate Kleinman of the Experimental Farm Network to talk about their work breeding potential food crops. We dive into crops lost to history, future ecologies, and what decentralized plant breeding looks like for community liberation in relation to community ecology.
 

The Experimental Farm Network (EFN) works to facilitate collaborative plant breeding and sustainable agriculture research in order to fight global climate change, preserve the natural environment, and ensure food security for humanity into the distant future. They believe participatory plant breeding on a massive scale can lead to breakthroughs to help us not only adapt to climate change, but one day actually stabilize the climate. Founded in 2013, EFN is composed of professional and amateur farmers, gardeners, plant breeders, and researchers. The network's main organizing tool — this open-source website — is free to use and open to all.

Check out their work at https://www.experimentalfarmnetwork.org/ and on Instagram at @ExperimentalFarmNetwork.

 

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/

 

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac," challenges the conventional understanding of drone bees, moving beyond the stereotype of them as lazy, unproductive members of the hive. The hosts, Andy and Elliot, engage in their signature comedic banter while exploring the multifaceted roles of drones and highlighting their crucial importance to honeybee health and genetic diversity.

Beyond the Stereotype: Unveiling the Importance of Drones

The hosts begin by acknowledging the common perception of drones as the "deadbeat dads" of the bee world, emphasizing that they don't participate in pollen collection, hive defense, or honey production. However, they quickly shift the conversation to reveal the often-overlooked contributions of drones.

• Indicators of Hive Health: Drones can serve as valuable "canaries in the coal mine," signaling potential problems within the hive. The presence of numerous drones flying around in the fall or dead drones outside the hive can indicate food shortages and impending hive collapse.
• Genetic Diversity: Drones play a critical role in maintaining genetic diversity within honeybee populations. As the sole carriers of the queen's genetic code, their successful mating with queens from other hives ensures the spread of healthy genes and the long-term viability of the species.
• Heat Regulation: Drones contribute to regulating the hive's temperature, particularly during the winter months. Their larger size and fluffier bodies help create a "blanket" over the brood, providing insulation and warmth.

The Drone Congregation Area: A Mile-High Club for Bees

The hosts provide a humorous explanation of the drone congregation area (DCA), a unique aerial gathering place where male honeybees congregate to mate with young queens. This phenomenon, compared to a "bee orgy" and likened to the "mile-high club," highlights the crucial role drones play in the continuation of honeybee generations.

Drone Drift and Landscape Features: The episode touches on the concept of "drone drift," a term used to describe the movement of drones from one hive to another. While acknowledging that the science behind drone drift is not fully understood, they suggest that landscape features, such as edges of forests or openings in fields, influence drone congregation patterns.

Varroa Mites: Exploiting Drone Brood as a Natural Trap

The hosts discuss the problem of varroa destructor mites, a significant threat to honeybee health. They introduce a novel approach to mite control, using drone brood as bait to trap and remove mites without relying on chemical treatments. This method involves strategically placing frames without comb on the edges of hive boxes, attracting drones to build their larger cells in these areas. Since varroa mites prefer to infest drone brood, these frames effectively act as "mite traps." By regularly inspecting and removing the infested frames, beekeepers can significantly reduce mite populations without resorting to potentially harmful chemicals.

Royal Jelly and the Importance of Drone Nutrition

The conversation shifts to the importance of nutrition, particularly royal jelly, in drone development. They explain that drones are initially fed royal jelly for the first three days of their lives, and the quality of this substance directly impacts their size, sperm production, and overall fitness. The hosts highlight a recent discovery that pesticide exposure, even at low levels, can negatively affect the quality and quantity of royal jelly produced by nurse bees, leading to smaller, weaker drones with reduced fertility.

Pesticide Impacts: The Hidden Threat to Drone Health

The hosts express concern about the widespread use of pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, and their detrimental effects on honeybee health. They cite research indicating that pesticide exposure can:

• Reduce the size and function of the hypopharyngeal gland (HP gland) in nurse bees, responsible for producing royal and worker jelly.
• Lead to smaller drones with reduced sperm volume and quality due to the consumption of inferior jelly.
• Alter drone development, even when fed royal jelly, resulting in smaller sex organs and delayed maturation.

A Call for Awareness and a Holistic Approach

The episode concludes with a call for greater awareness and respect for drone bees, acknowledging that their role in honeybee health and genetic diversity is far more significant than previously recognized. The hosts advocate for a holistic approach to beekeeping, emphasizing the importance of:

• Reducing pesticide use and promoting sustainable alternatives.
• Providing bees with diverse and nutritious forage to support healthy drone development.
• Continuing research on drone biology and the factors affecting their health and reproductive success.

The episode underscores the interconnectedness of all members of the honeybee hive, highlighting the critical role that drones play in ensuring the long-term survival of these vital pollinators.

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're back for season 3!

This episode of the Poor Proles Almanac podcast focuses on Masanobu Fukuoka and his "do-nothing" farming method. Matt, a guest host, guides listeners through Fukuoka's life and philosophy, emphasizing the interconnectedness of natural systems and the importance of minimizing human intervention in agriculture.

Fukuoka's Early Life and Revelation:

• Masanobu Fukuoka was born in 1913 in Japan, the son of a citrus farmer.
• He studied microbiology and agricultural science, even working as an agricultural customs inspector.
• Despite his scientific background, Fukuoka experienced a turning point during a bout of pneumonia at age 21.
• This illness led to an existential crisis, culminating in a profound experience where he felt he "understood nothing."
• This realization, sparked by the sight of a heron and the feeling of his doubts being swept away, marked a shift in Fukuoka's perspective.

From Abandonment to "Do-Nothing" Farming:

• Initially, Fukuoka tried to apply his newfound understanding through complete abandonment of his father's orchard, leading to disastrous results.
• He recognized that true natural farming wasn't simply neglect, but rather a nuanced approach requiring observation and adaptation.
• This experience led him to develop the concept of "do-nothing" farming, which emphasizes minimal intervention and working in harmony with nature.
• It's important to note that "do-nothing" is a somewhat misleading name, as the method still involves work, but significantly less than conventional methods.

Seed Balls and Principles of Natural Farming:

• One of the distinctive practices of Fukuoka's method is the use of seed balls, a mixture of clay, compost, and seeds.
• These seed balls, inspired by animal droppings, protect the seeds and allow them to germinate in suitable locations.
• Fukuoka's method is guided by four key principles: no cultivation, no chemical fertilizers, no weeding by tillage or herbicides, and no dependence on chemicals.
• These principles underscore the idea of allowing nature to take its course, fostering a balanced ecosystem within the farm.

The Importance of Context and Fukuoka's Legacy:

• Fukuoka stressed that his methods were developed for his specific environment in southern Japan.
• However, he also emphasized the importance of understanding local contexts and adapting methods accordingly.
• While his techniques might not be directly transferable, his philosophy of observation, humility, and working with nature holds broader relevance.
• Fukuoka's work received international recognition, highlighting the growing interest in sustainable and ecological approaches to agriculture.

The episode concludes by emphasizing the connection between Fukuoka's methods and broader themes of agroecology and sustainable living, highlighting the need to consider the social and philosophical dimensions of food production. The hosts also encourage listeners to reflect on their own relationship with the environment and the food they consume.

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 controversial concept of treatment-free beekeeping. Hosts Andy and Elliot argue that while modern beekeeping practices prioritize honey production through chemical treatments and artificial feeding, these methods ultimately harm bees in the long run. Instead, they advocate for a more natural approach that emphasizes observation, minimal intervention, and allowing bees to adapt to their local environments.

Reframing Beekeeping: From Short-Term Gain to Long-Term Viability

The hosts challenge the conventional beekeeping wisdom that emphasizes keeping colonies alive as long as possible, arguing that true beekeeping success lies in supporting the long-term health of the species. They point out that modern beekeeping practices, focused on maximizing honey production through chemical treatments and artificial feeding, have actually weakened bee populations and increased their susceptibility to diseases and pests.

The hosts advocate for a shift in perspective from individual hive survival to the overall well-being of bees as a species. They emphasize that treatment-free beekeeping is not about neglecting bees but rather about fostering resilience and adaptability by minimizing interventions and allowing natural selection to strengthen bee populations.

The Two Pillars of Treatment-Free Beekeeping

The hosts outline two key areas that distinguish treatment-free beekeeping from conventional methods:

• No Disease Treatments: This involves refraining from using chemical treatments to control pests and diseases. Instead, treatment-free beekeepers focus on using hive designs that reduce the risk of infestation and allowing bees to develop natural resistance.
• Limited or No Supplemental Feeding: Modern beekeeping often relies on feeding bees sugar water, especially during spring and winter. This practice, while providing calories, lacks the nutritional complexity of natural honey and can weaken bees' immune systems. Treatment-free beekeepers aim to minimize or eliminate supplemental feeding, encouraging bees to rely on their own honey stores and forage for diverse, natural food sources.

The Problem with Honeydew Honey

The episode explores the challenges of honeydew honey, a type of honey produced by bees from the sugary excretions of sap-feeding insects. While bees may collect honeydew honey during periods of pollen scarcity, the hosts explain that honeydew honey can crystallize in the hive and become poisonous to bees, particularly during winter.

The hosts caution beekeepers against harvesting honey too late in the season, as this may leave bees with primarily honeydew honey for winter stores. They emphasize the importance of allowing bees to build sufficient reserves of high-quality honey during the main honey flow.

Rethinking Hive Management: Minimal Intervention for Maximum Resilience

The hosts advocate for a minimalist approach to hive management, arguing that frequent inspections and manipulations can stress bees and disrupt their natural behaviors. They recommend limiting hive inspections to twice a year, in spring and fall, focusing on observing colony health, adding frames as needed, and ensuring adequate honey stores for winter.

The hosts also emphasize the importance of allowing bees to swarm naturally, as this promotes genetic diversity and strengthens local bee populations. They suggest that beekeepers can encourage swarming by providing ample space in the hive and avoiding practices that suppress natural reproduction.

The Role of Insulation in Bee Survival

The episode discusses the importance of hive insulation in helping bees conserve energy and survive cold winters. The hosts point out that modern Langstroth hives, often constructed with thin wood, may lack adequate insulation, forcing bees to work harder to maintain hive temperature.

They recommend using thicker hive walls, incorporating insulation materials, and considering hive designs that naturally retain heat, such as top bar hives. They highlight the importance of reducing moisture buildup within the hive, which can contribute to cold stress and bee mortality.

Reframing Our Relationship with Bees: From Exploitation to Collaboration

The episode concludes with a call for a more respectful and collaborative relationship between humans and bees. The hosts emphasize that beekeeping should prioritize bee health and well-being rather than solely focusing on honey production.

They encourage beekeepers to learn from the behaviors of wild bees, observe their adaptations to local environments, and embrace practices that support natural resilience and genetic diversity. The hosts believe that by shifting our focus from exploitation to collaboration, we can create a more sustainable future for bees and ensure their vital role in our ecosystems.

This episode connects to our previous conversation about Langstroth hives by highlighting alternative approaches to beekeeping that prioritize bee health and natural behaviors. While Langstroth hives are efficient for industrial honey production, the episode argues that their design and the management practices often associated with them can negatively impact bee health. Treatment-free beekeeping, with its focus on minimal intervention, natural comb building, and supporting local adaptations, offers a different model for beekeeping that prioritizes long-term sustainability over short-term gains.

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 podcast explores the fascinating world of composting, breaking down the process into its fundamental components and highlighting the scientific principles behind its effectiveness. The hosts, Elliot and Andy, along with guest host Matt, engage in their characteristic humorous and rambling style while sharing insights into the art and science of turning organic waste into a valuable soil amendment.

Compost: More Than Just Rotting Waste

The episode starts by defining compost as the product of decomposing plant waste and food scraps, resulting in a nutrient-rich, fluffy material called humus. Humus is a transitional layer between organic material and soil, essential for plant growth and soil health due to its ability to hold water, provide nutrients, and support diverse soil organisms.

The Two Sides of Decomposition: Abiotic and Biotic

The hosts explain that compost formation involves two main processes:

• Abiotic decomposition: Natural chemical reactions like oxidation, reduction, and hydrolysis, which occur regardless of the presence of living organisms.
• Biotic decomposition: The breakdown of organic matter by living organisms, primarily bacteria and fungi.

Bacteria and Fungi: Key Players in the Compost Ecosystem

The episode emphasizes the crucial role of bacteria and fungi in composting:

• Bacteria use enzymes to oxidize and break down organic matter, releasing energy in the form of heat. This is why compost piles often feel warm or even steamy.
• Fungi are particularly adept at breaking down lignin, a complex molecule found in woody materials. This makes them essential for composting materials like leaves and twigs.
• The ratio of fungi to bacteria in compost is influenced by the type of materials added. For example, adding more leaves and twigs will encourage fungal growth, while adding more grass clippings will favor bacteria.

The Importance of Carbon, Nitrogen, Oxygen, and Water

The hosts stress the importance of providing the right balance of essential elements for efficient composting:

• Carbon: Provides energy for the decomposing organisms. Dry, brown materials like leaves and twigs are good sources of carbon.
• Nitrogen: Needed for microbial growth and reproduction. Fresh, green materials like grass clippings and vegetable scraps are rich in nitrogen.
• Oxygen: Essential for aerobic decomposition, the most efficient and desirable type of breakdown. Turning the compost pile regularly ensures oxygen availability.
• Water: Necessary for microbial activity, but too much water can lead to anaerobic conditions, resulting in the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Maintaining the Ideal Carbon-Nitrogen Ratio

The optimal carbon-nitrogen (C/N) ratio for composting is around 25:1. This means there should be about 25 parts carbon for every 1 part nitrogen. Achieving this balance ensures that the decomposing organisms have enough energy and nutrients to thrive.

The Heat is On: Mesophilic and Thermophilic Stages

As compost decomposes, it goes through different temperature stages:

• Mesophilic stage: Temperatures between 50°F and 113°F, where a mix of bacteria and fungi begin the breakdown process.
• Thermophilic stage: Temperatures between 113°F and 170°F, primarily driven by bacteria. The high heat helps kill weed seeds and pathogens.
• Cooling and maturation stage: As decomposition slows down, temperatures decrease, and mesophilic organisms return. Fungi and actinomycetes play a crucial role in this final stage, producing the desired humus.

Vermicomposting: Worms Join the Party

The episode briefly discusses vermicomposting, a composting method that relies on earthworms to break down organic matter. Unlike traditional composting, vermicomposting doesn't reach high temperatures, so weed seeds may not be killed.

Beyond the Backyard: The Future of Composting

The episode concludes by highlighting the potential of composting beyond individual backyard setups:

• Large-scale composting systems: The hosts mention the Denver Compost Collective as an example of community-based composting initiatives.
• Human composting: The hosts touch upon the emerging trend of composting human remains as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

• Composting is a complex biological process involving the interaction of various organisms and environmental factors.
• Understanding the fundamental principles of composting, such as the C/N ratio and the importance of oxygen and water, is crucial for success.
• Composting offers a sustainable solution for managing organic waste and improving soil health.
• The episode underscores the importance of careful observation and experimentation to optimize composting techniques. 

  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 dive into the history of the forgotten chinquapin and what new research tells us about its diversity and actual range. For folks unfamiliar, the chinquapin is often considered the smaller cousin of the American Chestnut, despite the fact that research today suggests that isn't the whole story. We're talking about the Ozark, Allegheny, and the Alabama chinquapins and what role these trees can play in our climate-change driven future!

 

Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/chinquapins 

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/

 

In this episode, we're joined by Panteleon from Maseualkualli Farms, a small fossil-free farm in northeast Kansas. We discuss the importance of relearning to farm without petrochemicals and petrofuels, building community, and the Florentine Codex-- a text that outlines traditional indigenous land stewardship as recorded by the Spanish upon their arrival.

 

We also chat about food apartheid and the concept of food as a public work. 

Check out their farm at: https://www.masefarm.org/ and on social media at @Maseualkuallifarms
 

 

Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac

We're joined by Whitney Johnson, a forager who has focused on highlighting the complex and beautiful cultural history of foraging in Appalachia. Johnson has become known to the internet as the @appalachian_forager on Tiktok & Instagram, which she built by hunting mushrooms – and her passion for Appalachian culture and dedication to authenticity keeps people coming back. Her work highlights the ways in which food, ecology, and community intersect, and point to a way in which foodways can help us navigate our way towards healthier communities and healthier ecosystems.

 

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/

 

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Eric Burhart from Penn State's Environmental Center. Eric's focus is around wild plant research, stewardship, and use, and we get to dive into this subject specifically around ramps and ghost pipe, although he has an extensive background in American ginseng and goldenseal as well. We explore the ways these plants are impacted and can be impacted by invasives, and what the future holds for these special species that inhabit our forests across the east coast.
 
 

For more information:

https://www.shaverscreek.org/about-us/meet-the-staff/ericburkhart/

You can also find Eric on Instagram at @PA_Botany_and_ethnobotany
 

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/

 

Have modern agricultural practices led us down an unsustainable path, and are the so-called "green" alternatives really any better? Discover the truth as we explore the evolution of alternative agriculture and unpack the misleading narratives surrounding terms like "organic" and "regenerative." We'll delve into the historical roots and political dimensions of agroecology, examining how this vital movement emerged in Latin America as a counter to the top-down failures of the Green Revolution. With a focus on context, we spotlight how language shapes our understanding and approach to building future food systems.

In this episode, we shine a light on the principles and practices that set agroecology apart, emphasizing its local, knowledge-intensive methods that contrast sharply with industrial agricultural models. Learn how agroecology has become a cornerstone of resistance among peasant and indigenous communities, fostering resilience and autonomy in the face of global destabilization. Through global perspectives, we'll showcase how agroecology supports biodiversity and traditional foodways, while also considering scalable, sustainable alternatives that integrate appropriate technologies to enhance community well-being.

Join us as we explore innovative small-scale projects and successful agroecological movements worldwide, questioning the romanticized view of peasant farming and the efficiency of growing one's own food. We propose a model that aligns crop selection with native ecological conditions, promoting harmony with the land and addressing issues of alienation and redundancy. Ultimately, we underscore the importance of justice, traditional land stewardship, and decentralized food systems in creating a sustainable agricultural future for all beings, amidst ecological and colonial challenges.

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/

Agroecology, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Sustainable Agriculture, Global South, Peasant Resistance Movements, Community Agriculture, Small-scale Farming, Food Systems, Justice, Restorative Agroecology, Indigenous Peoples, Decolonization, Biodiversity, Food Security, Climate Change, Traditional Foodways, Community Ownership, Collective Effort, Sustainable Futures, Political Dimensions

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" challenges the common narrative that honeybees are primarily responsible for pollinator decline. While acknowledging the importance of honeybees, the hosts, Andy and Elliot, alongside guest host Matt, argue that focusing solely on honeybee conservation distracts from the more significant issue: the need to protect and restore native pollinator populations. They dissect various research papers and highlight the nuances surrounding invasive species, monocropping, and the complex interplay between native and non-native plants and pollinators.

Challenging the Claim that Honeybees Promote Invasive Species

The episode examines the often-repeated assertion that honeybees contribute to the spread of invasive plant species. The hosts trace this claim back to a series of papers, starting with a 2001 study titled "The Influence of Sociality on the Conservation Biology of Social Insects". This paper, however, only briefly mentions the concept and refers to a 1994 study for further investigation. Upon examining this 1994 study, "An Assessment of the Contribution of Honeybees to Weed Reproduction in New Zealand Protected Natural Areas", the hosts find that the abstract directly contradicts the commonly held belief. The study concludes that while honeybees may pollinate some invasive species, they likely do not significantly contribute to the overall problem.

They further investigate another frequently cited paper, "Biotic Invasions: Causes, Epidemiology, Global Consequences, and Control", and discover that it doesn't even mention honeybees. This exploration reveals a pattern of misinterpretations and misattributions within the scientific literature, highlighting the importance of carefully examining primary sources rather than relying on secondhand summaries.

The Impacts of Monocropping on Pollinator Diversity

The hosts then shift their focus to monocropping, a prevalent agricultural practice that displaces native plants with vast swathes of single crops. They discuss a 2016 study that investigated how the scale of monocropping influences pollinator diversity. The research found that row crops, a common form of monoculture, negatively impact bee abundance within a 900-foot radius. Notably, even with unmanaged, "wild" areas bordering these monocrops, native pollinator diversity did not significantly improve. This finding suggests that the degradation of surrounding habitats may limit the effectiveness of small-scale native plant restoration efforts.

Rethinking Native and Non-Native Plant Strategies

The episode also challenges the simplistic notion that simply planting native species is a guaranteed solution for pollinator decline. They present findings from Oregon State University's Garden Ecology Lab, which compared the attractiveness of native and non-native plants to various pollinators. While native plants were initially more attractive, non-native plants became more popular with pollinators, especially honeybees, after a year of establishment within the ecosystem. This suggests that honeybees, as generalist foragers, gravitate towards less competitive resources.

The hosts emphasize that while native plants are generally more beneficial for native pollinators, honeybees' tendency to exploit less competitive non-native plants might inadvertently reduce competition for native pollinators. They caution, however, that replacing all non-native plants with natives could lead to increased competition between honeybees and native pollinators for those native resources.

The Need for a More Nuanced Perspective

The episode concludes by urging listeners to move beyond simplistic solutions and embrace a more nuanced understanding of the complex factors contributing to pollinator decline. They stress that honeybees are not the sole culprit and that various interconnected issues, such as habitat loss, pesticide use, and the spread of diseases from managed honeybee populations to wild pollinators, require attention. The hosts advocate for a holistic approach that prioritizes habitat restoration, reduces reliance on monocropping, and encourages thoughtful integration of both native and non-native plants to support a diverse range of pollinators.

Key Takeaways

• The claim that honeybees are the primary drivers of invasive species spread lacks strong scientific evidence.
• Monocropping negatively impacts pollinator diversity, and small-scale native plant restoration may be insufficient to fully mitigate this damage.
• While native plants are generally more beneficial, non-native plants can also support pollinators, and a balance between the two is necessary.
• Addressing pollinator decline requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond simply focusing on honeybees and includes habitat restoration, reduced pesticide use, and disease management.

The episode encourages a shift in perspective, moving away from blame and towards collaborative action to support the intricate web of life that pollinators, both native and non-native, depend on.

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 researcher Torben Schiffer to discuss his findings working with wild honeybees in Europe. What can we learn from wild honeybees about the health of bees in conventional settings, and further, what do these discoveries imply about the sustainability of honeybees in urban settings?

 

You can buy Torben's books at the following link, or check your local bookstore!

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Torben-Schiffer/author/B087QL9XB7?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list.

 

In this episode, we're joined by musician and organizer Ben Potrykus to talk about building community and how music and politics interplay. Ben's a veteran in the greater Boston music scene, and spent years touring the country with a number of different bands, including the Receiving end of Sirens, Christians & Lions, Get Loose!, Sharp Teeth, Baixa, Girlfriends, Bent Shapes, Fake ID, and more. 

 

Imposed Magazine describes Ben's place in the music scene succinctly, stating that "Over the years, he’s torpedoed two major label deals, temporarily fractured his relationship with his brother, and sabotaged a rock doc, all results of his idealism, impulsiveness, and neurosis about selling out. His devotion has made him one of the most revered songwriters in Boston, though it was never his intention to become anything, really." (read the article here, if you are curious) We chat about where he stands on these issues today, and further, how these relationships in and around music have informed the way in which he engages with his other work around tenant organizing.

If you're not familiar with tenant organizing, we discuss the benefits of this type of organizing over unionizing workplaces, and the increased presence it will likely have in a world which increasingly isolates due to work from home and more.

We also discuss various resources for tenant organizing, which are included below:

https://atun-rsia.org/

https://powrpvd.org/

https://bostontenantsunion.org/

 

And of course follow @Christiansandlions on Instagram & check out their music at www.christiansandlions.com

 

Intro music: Christians & Lions- "The Changeling"

Transition music: Christians & Lions- "Firebelly Salamander"

Outro music: Christians & LIons- "Bird's Milk"

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/

 

In this episode, we're joined by Susan Chernak McElroy, a prolific naturalist author with a number of New York Times best sellers, to discuss her experiences with building and maintaining skeps, log hives, and the future of beekeeping. How is the science around beekeeping changing how we understand bee habits and what they need to thrive?

 

Get her most recent book, "What Bees Want", on Amazon or wherever you buy books.

To learn more about Susan's research and work, check out her website: https://susanchernakknilans.com/

 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list. For the supplemental reader that goes along with the podcast, visit poorprolesalmanac.substack.com 

 

Food scarcity is prevalent within every city in the U.S. The pandemic, systemic oppression and escalating climate change have exacerbated existing needs. One solution to food scarcity is food sovereignty and community health. In 2021 Seeding Sovereignty embarked on our first-ever farming adventure, Ancestral Acres Farm & Garden on Tiwa Territory in Albuquerque, New Mexico!

In this episode, we're joined by Mayam from Ancestral Acres, land steward and program director, to discuss finding place and time in restoring landscapes for the benefit of human and non-human inhabitants.

You can check out Ancestral Acres at: https://seedingsovereignty.org/aafg

You can learn more about Seeding Sovereignty's various projects at: https://seedingsovereignty.org/

 

Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac

In this episode, we're joined by Lake of The Revolutionary's Garden podcast to talk farming, climate change, and commune living. Lake discusses the challenges and process of building a commune space, finding ways to create a healthy, sustainable community while operating under laws designed for businesses and nuclear families, and, of course, deciding who does the dishes. We swap stories about podcasting and our goals with our projects, and much much more.

 

Check out the Revolutionary's Garden's website below and find their show wherever you get your podcasts!

https://www.therevgarden.com/

 

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/

 

In this episode, we dive into the second half of the life of a botanist that should be known by everyone listening to this podcast-- Liberty Hyde Bailey.

Liberty Hyde Bailey is likely a name many folks are familiar with, but the depth of knowledge of his significance remains fairly thin. A cursory search online highlights various facets of his career— his work in pomology, his defense of rural living and communities, and his importance in the re-discovery of Mendel’s work on recessive traits. While all of these are important, they simply scratch the surface of what Bailey has contributed to numerous fields of science and philosophy and miss the larger vision that motivated Bailey.

 

Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/liberty-hyde-bailey

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/

 

The 2009–2011 Icelandic financial crisis protests, also referred to as the Kitchenware, Kitchen Implement or Pots and Pans Revolution, occurred in the wake of the Icelandic financial crisis. There had been regular and growing protests since October 2008 against the Icelandic government's handling of the financial crisis. The protests intensified on 20 January 2009 with thousands of people protesting at the parliament in Reykjavík. These were at the time the largest protests in Icelandic history.

 

Protesters were calling for the resignation of government officials and for new elections to be held. Unlike every other country during this global crisis, numerous officials and bank leaders were imprisoned and the government reclaimed ownership of many industries in response.

How did this protest develop, and why was their protest so successful in comparison to other movements such as Occupy Wall Street? We chat about why average citizens got involved and lessons we can learn from this unique period in history.

 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list. For the supplemental reader that goes along with the podcast, visit:

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com

 

Sources:

Dixon, M. (2018). Economic crisis and mass protest: The pots and pans revolution in Iceland. Social Forces, 96(4). https://doi.org/10.1093/sf/soy029

Bibler, J. (2021). Iceland’s secret: The untold story of the world’s biggest con. Harriman House.

 

 

We're joined by Mikey & Keoni from the O'ahu Water Protectors to discuss the recent history of Red Hill & the destruction of Hawaii's largest aquifer and primary source of fresh water for the residents of the island. How did we get to the point that the most important source for life, fresh water, is becoming less and less accessible? Further, how has this pushed people into activism and begun to change narratives in the community about the role of activism? We don't just dive into these questions but we also look at the recent successes caused by direct action, and the lessons learned from this process.

 

To support the O'ahu Water Protectors, visit: https://oahuwaterprotectors.org/

They can also be found on social media at @Oahuwaterprotectors

Shut Down Red Hill Mutual Aid social medias: @SDRHMutualAid

Venmo: @ShutDownRedHillMutualAid

 

Support this podcast through Patreon at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

 

Denmark Vesey, a carpenter and formerly enslaved person, allegedly planned an enslaved insurrection to coincide with Bastille Day in Charleston, South Carolina in 1822. Vesey modeled his rebellion after the successful 1791 slave revolution in Haiti. His plans called for his followers to execute the white enslavers, liberate the city of Charleston, and then sail to Haiti before the white power structure could retaliate.

Vesey and several of his co-conspirators worshiped at the African Church, the AME congregation which became Mother Emanuel after the Civil War. Along with white abolitionists in the North, Vesey referenced the Bible in his attacks on the institution of slavery. In the aftermath of the execution, white Charlestonians tore down the church and supported new efforts to control the black majority. Funds were appropriated to support a Municipal Guard of 150 men and the construction of "a Citadel" to house them and weapons. In 1843, the structure became home to the cadets of the South Carolina Military Academy.

Additionally, as Vesey's rebellion relied on assistance from free black sailors, South Carolina passed legislation known as the Negro Seamen Acts. The act called for the incarceration of visiting free black sailors in local jails while their vessel remained in Charleston to eliminate contact between free black sailors from outside of South Carolina and black Charlestonians. Despite protests from northern states and British consuls, South Carolina stubbornly insisted on its right to police its population in this way.

Denmark Vesey was later held up as a hero among abolitionists, including Frederick Douglass, during the Civil War. Douglass used Vesey's name as a rallying cry in recruiting and inspiring African American troops, including the 54th Massachusetts Infantry. Vesey's son, Robert, attended the April 14, 1865 ceremony at Fort Sumter. Today, however, his name remains largely unknown despite his foundational role in accelerating further slave rebellions and ultimately the civil war itself. We discuss why this is the case and what lessons can be learned from this story.
 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list. For the supplemental reader that goes along with the podcast, visit:

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com

 

Sources:

Jeremy Schipper “Denmark Vesey’s Bible”

https://userpages.umbc.edu/~bouton/History407/SlaveStats.htm

https://www.ccpl.org/charleston-time-machine/defining-charlestons-free-people-color

J. Russell Smith might be the most well-known figure in history in regards to tree crops in North America— largely because of his book “Tree Crops: A Permanent Agriculture”, which has been a foundational text for many people in permaculture and agroecological spaces. While this book is worthwhile for any novice and experienced horticulturalist to read, his work expands much further than this one book. In fact, his successes and imprint on industries for generations were so expansive, often working on international or groundbreaking projects in different fields concurrently, instead of organizing this piece on a linear timeline, it will be much easier to understand by clustering in the fields of academic, geography & industry, youth public education, food systems, conservation, and food production.

 

In this episode, we dive into the second half of the life of a botanist that should be known by everyone listening to this podcast-- Liberty Hyde Bailey.

Liberty Hyde Bailey is likely a name many folks are familiar with, but the depth of knowledge of his significance remains fairly thin. A cursory search online highlights various facets of his career— his work in pomology, his defense of rural living and communities, and his importance in the re-discovery of Mendel’s work on recessive traits. While all of these are important, they simply scratch the surface of what Bailey has contributed to numerous fields of science and philosophy and miss the larger vision that motivated Bailey.

 

Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/j-russell-smith 

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/

 

Join us in this engaging episode as we explore the fascinating world of flexible learning and sustainable agriculture with our special guest, Eliza Greenman. Known for her innovative research on tree crops and climate change, Eliza shares her inspiring journey from working with apples and pigs to her current focus on persimmons and oaks. Her dedication to discovering new possibilities in agriculture challenges conventional approaches and offers hope for adapting our diets to future climate changes. Eliza's work with the Savannah Institute and her blog, Eliza Apples, showcase her commitment to exploring the past to build a sustainable future.

Listen in as we trace Eliza's childhood passion for pigs and how it intersected with her professional pursuits in sustainable orchard management. Her travels to Central Asia and experiences in food forestry reveal the integration of animal management in fruit forests, sparking innovative ideas about using pigs for sustainable orchard care. We also discuss the potential of persimmons, particularly the Northern and Southern varieties, as a resilient fruit that could play a crucial role in adapting to climate change. The conversation highlights ongoing research efforts, including a persimmon breeding project, to unlock the genetic diversity and future potential of this underappreciated fruit.

Finally, explore the captivating world of acorns and their untapped potential as a food source. Eliza and I discuss traditional and innovative methods to process acorns, such as fermentation, which could make them more appealing for human consumption. The episode also touches on the importance of understanding native crop genetics and the historical selection by indigenous peoples, which influenced the distribution of persimmons across North America. As we look to the future, we consider the potential of silvopasture systems and nuts like hickories to diversify agriculture and provide sustainable alternatives to monocrop systems. This episode is filled with insights and inspiration for anyone interested in the intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and climate resilience.

Check out Eliza's work at https://elizapples.com/ , @elizapples on Instagram, and her work with the Savanna Institute!

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:

Sustainable Agriculture, Tree Crops, Climate Resilience, Animal Management, Orchards, Genetic Diversity, Native Crops, Food Forestry, Ecosystem Management, Acorns, Persimmons, Oak Savannas, Genetic Preservation, Microlocations, Genetic Research, Indigenous Stewardship, Agroforestry, Monocrop Systems, Tannin Content, Fermentation Techniques, Personalized Learning

 

This episode is a callback to an earlier episode on Tomorrow, Today, with Dr. Scott Cave. We chat about cemeteries, their unique place as third spaces, how they can be sources of community and radical ecology work, and more!

 

This is one of my favorites so if you didn't listen before, listen now!

Check out Citizens Cemetery (now Citizen Botany) on Instagram at @CtznBotany

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/

A Rebel with a Cause: Denmark Vesey and the Seeds of Insurrection

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" explores the life and legacy of Denmark Vesey, a formerly enslaved man who planned a major slave uprising in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1822. The hosts, Elliot and Andy, use Vesey's story to examine the complex social and religious landscape of the antebellum South and the role of the Bible in both justifying and condemning slavery. They also highlight the often-overlooked role of the Black church in organizing and mobilizing resistance to slavery.

Denmark Vesey: A Man Who Dared to Dream of Freedom

The episode begins by introducing Denmark Vesey, whose planned uprising was nine years before Nat Turner's rebellion and 37 years before John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry. Vesey's plan, which was ultimately thwarted, involved seizing weapons, setting fires throughout Charleston, and killing the city's entire white population before escaping to Haiti. The hosts emphasize that Vesey, unlike many other enslaved people, had achieved freedom and established a successful carpentry business. This fact makes his decision to risk everything for an uprising all the more remarkable, highlighting the depth of his commitment to ending slavery.

The Bible as a Double-Edged Sword: Justifying Slavery and Inspiring Resistance

The episode explores how the Bible was used by both slave owners and abolitionists to support their respective positions. Vesey himself used scripture to rally support for his cause, arguing that the Bible commanded the Israelites to destroy their enemies and that slavery was a sin that needed to be eradicated. He drew on passages from both the Old and New Testaments to inspire and reassure his followers, illustrating how the same text could be interpreted in vastly different ways.

The hosts point out that the authority of the Bible, rather than its specific content, made it a powerful tool for both sides. They connect this historical phenomenon to contemporary issues, suggesting that the Bible continues to be used to justify harmful ideologies and policies.

The Role of the Black Church: A Space for Community and Resistance

The establishment of the first African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in Charleston in 1817 played a pivotal role in Vesey's organizing efforts. The church provided a space for Black people to gather, build community, and develop a shared sense of identity, independent from the white-dominated churches. This independence fueled fears among white slave owners, who suspected that the AME Church was being supported by abolitionists and that it was fostering insurrection.

The hosts emphasize the importance of "meet space" - physical spaces where people can come together and build community - for fostering social and political change. They connect this historical example to the need for similar spaces in contemporary society, arguing that strong communities are essential for challenging oppressive systems.

The Perils of "Middle Ground": The Complicity of Moderate Voices

The episode examines the role of white religious leaders in Charleston, particularly Benjamin Palmer and Richard Fuhrman, who condemned Vesey's planned uprising while simultaneously advocating for the right of Black people to read the Bible. These figures represent the "radical centrists" of their time, who sought to maintain a delicate balance between preserving the institution of slavery and appeasing moral concerns about its cruelty.

The hosts argue that these moderate voices ultimately served to reinforce the status quo by discouraging more radical action. They draw parallels to contemporary political debates, suggesting that those who advocate for incremental change or compromise with oppressive systems often end up perpetuating those systems.

The Illusion of Power: Fear and the Fragility of the Slaveholding Class

Despite their outward confidence, the white elite in Charleston lived in constant fear of a slave revolt. This fear was amplified by the fact that enslaved people outnumbered white people in both the city and the surrounding countryside. The episode suggests that this demographic reality, coupled with the growing abolitionist movement in the North and Europe, created a sense of vulnerability among slave owners.

The hosts argue that this underlying fear shaped the reactions of the slaveholding class to Vesey's planned uprising. They suggest that the harsh punishments meted out to Vesey and his followers, as well as the subsequent crackdown on Black literacy, were driven by a desperate attempt to maintain control and suppress dissent.

The Legacy of Denmark Vesey: A Challenge to the "Natural Order"

The episode concludes by reflecting on the lasting significance of Vesey's story. Although his uprising was unsuccessful, it exposed the deep cracks in the foundation of Southern society and demonstrated the potential for organized resistance to slavery. The hosts argue that Vesey's use of the Bible to challenge the "natural order" of things laid the groundwork for future abolitionist movements and continues to inspire those who fight for social justice today.

They end the episode by promising to explore the specifics of Vesey's plan and the events leading up to his capture and execution in the next installment.

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're joined by Michiel Verspuij from Boomtree Bees in Donegal, Ireland, to discuss log hives and restoring native honeybees in Ireland. How much of a difference does raising honeybees in log hives make, and how does it upend our understanding of healthy hives and what their natural cycles look like? Michiel's mission is to help with the conservation and rewilding of the native honeybee through habitat creation and development. They make log hives that mimic the natural habitat for honeybees in the Irish countryside. Check out their work at www.boomtreebees.com & on instagram @Boomtreebees

 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For more information and updates, visit www.poorproles.com and subscribe to our e-mail list. For the supplemental reader that goes along with the podcast, visit poorprolesalmanac.substack.com

Before Murray Bookchin, another man paired ecological health with societal health, Russell Lord. In this episode, we dive into Lord's early years and his exposure to sustainable agriculture. Heavily influenced by Liberty Hyde Bailey, Lord worked as a journalist and extension program educator to advocate for the needs of farmers across the country in the early 20th century. During this time, he made a number of crucial connections which would later catapult him to becoming a forgotten but incredibly important conduit for the permanent agriculture movement's success over a number of decades.

 

To read about Russell Lord's contributions to history, check out the following substack for sources and further details: hhttps://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/russell-lord

 

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/

Did you know that one time the United States almost accidentally stopped climate change and became a leading global force in defense of ecology? A unique confluence of events came together and presented an opportunity for the United States to protect itself and concurrently its soils as well.

In the 1930s, the permanent agriculture movement gained an advocate in the White House in the name Franklin D Roosevelt. It allowed some of the most radical policies to unfold in American agricultural history, but not without hiccups. In this episode, we chat about the explosion of the movement, as well as some of the darker undercurrents that tied progressive agricultural practices with racism and feudalisim.

 

To read about this unique period in history, check out the following substack for sources and further details: https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/the-20th-century-permanent-agriculture

 

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/

 

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" centers on biochar, a soil amendment with purported benefits but also potential risks. Hosts Elliot and Andy, along with guest host Matt, discuss what biochar is, how it differs from charcoal, its potential applications, and the complexities of using it effectively.

What is Biochar and How is it Made?

• Biochar is a type of charcoal produced by heating biomass in the absence of oxygen to high temperatures (600-950°F). This process, known as pyrolysis, breaks the bonds in the biomass and creates a porous material with a high surface area.
• While regular charcoal is produced at lower temperatures, biochar's higher production temperature results in greater purity and a reduction of hydrocarbons.
• This high-temperature pyrolysis creates unique "chemisorption" properties in biochar, allowing it to attract and hold substances on its surface at a molecular level.
• Biochar can be made using a variety of methods, ranging from simple DIY setups using metal containers in a wood stove to more sophisticated designs like the Annela stove, which utilizes a secondary burn of the off-gases to reach higher temperatures.

Biochar as a Soil Amendment: Benefits and Challenges

• Biochar is commonly touted as a soil amendment that raises pH, acts as a carbon sink, and improves soil health.
• One of its key benefits is its ability to increase water retention, particularly in sandy soils, which are known for poor water retention. Studies have shown that biochar can increase water retention by up to 20% in sandy soils.
• Biochar's "chemisorption" properties enable it to absorb and hold nutrients, potentially improving soil fertility. However, freshly produced biochar has a low cation exchange capacity (CEC), which limits its ability to immediately release those nutrients to plants.
• The CEC of biochar increases over time through oxidation in the soil. This means that the benefits of biochar are not always immediate and can vary depending on factors like the soil type and the biochar's feedstock (the material it's made from).

The Complicated Nature of Biochar: A "Yes and No" Story

• Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the complexity of biochar and the lack of definitive answers regarding its use. They often use the phrase "yes and no" to highlight this uncertainty.
• While biochar can be beneficial, there are also instances where it has had negative effects on soil health. For example, the pH change caused by biochar can suppress beneficial microbial communities, and freshly produced biochar can temporarily absorb nutrients, leading to deficiencies.
• Some studies have shown that biochar's benefits may only last a few years, and in some cases, it has even suppressed plant growth. There are also concerns about biochar potentially accumulating pollutants and heavy metals, drawing them closer to plant roots.
• In some cases, the effects of biochar have been negligible, with no observable changes in soil health or plant growth.
• The hosts underscore that more research is needed to fully understand biochar's interactions with soil and its long-term effects.

Charging Biochar and Practical Considerations

• The hosts discuss the concept of "charging" biochar to enhance its nutrient content. Soaking biochar in nutrient-rich liquids like urine, compost tea, or fish emulsion can increase its CEC and nutrient availability.
• The episode also touches on the importance of choosing the right feedstock for biochar based on the intended use and location. Hardwood biochar is generally considered better for forest soils, while corn stover or similar materials might be more suitable for pastures or prairies.
• While there are no hard and fast rules for biochar application rates, a general guideline is around 20 pounds per acre, incorporated into the soil at a depth of 5-10 inches.

Conclusion: Proceed with Caution and Observation

The episode concludes by emphasizing the need for caution and careful observation when using biochar. It's not a magic fix for all soil problems, and in some cases, it may even be detrimental. However, biochar holds potential for improving soil health, particularly in certain contexts like sandy soils and areas with low pH. The hosts encourage listeners to experiment with biochar, but to do so responsibly and with an awareness of its complexities.

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're joined by Dr. Ryan Shmid & Katya Busenitz from the Ecdysis Foundation to discuss the impacts of grazing on both native and non-native insects. How can regenerative grazing improve honey production while also helping increase native diversity?

 

To learn more about the Ecdysis Foundation, visit www.ecdysis.bio

 

Support this podcast through Patreon at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

 

In this episode we're joined by David Holmgren to discuss the past 50 years of permaculture and some of his thoughts on its evolution. We dive into some of the uncomfortable subjects of native habitat loss,  invasive species, land back, indigenous sovereignty, the PDC structure, permaculture at scale, among other things in what I hope will be an incredibly insightful conversation for listeners curious to dive into these subjects.

 

David Holmgren is an Australian environmental designer, ecological educator and writer. He is best known as one of the co-originators of the permaculture concept with Bill Mollison. He still actively manages Melliodora Farm, a 2.5 acre permaculture homestead, writes extensively, and offers training on his homestead. You can find his work here: https://holmgren.com.au/

 

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/

 

We're joined by the Denver Compost Collective to discuss the concept of urban composting and utilizing compost as a tool for building community. How can we leverage our mutual understanding of the importance of soil health and local, healthy food to build inroads with our neighbors? And more importantly, how can their model be replicated across urban spaces globally?

 

The Denver Compost Collective provides a weekly compost collection service for apartment dwellers. Their community farm partners regularly receive their compost and add it to their soils, which supports the soil greatly: improving its structure, adding fertility for crops, retaining water, and reintroducing critically important microbes back into the earth. This supports the farm’s efforts to grow healthy, natural food for their communities right in Denver.

Check out the Denver Compost Collective on Instagram (@DenverCompostCollective) & Facebook, and visit their website for more information: http://www.denvercompostcollective.com

 

Support this podcast by visiting www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac or sign up for our newsletter at www.poorproles.com 

 

Did you know that one time the United States almost accidentally stopped climate change and became a leading global force in defense of ecology? A unique confluence of events came together and presented an opportunity for the United States to protect itself and concurrently its soils as well. We talk about the lead-up to this movement under the FDR administration and the players involved in the development of the resources for this unique opportunity.

 

To read about this unique period in history, check out the following substack for sources and further details:

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/the-20th-century-permanent-agriculture

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/

 

Peter Gelderloos joins us again to discuss his recent book "The Solutions are Already Here: Strategies for Ecological Revolution from Below". The conversation is framed around ecological collapse, the complexity of tackling these issues, and detangling climate change from the conversations around the carbon footprint. How does capitalism utilize climate change to continue its path to exploit the resources on the planet through tools like the green new deal, and how do we respond to this greenwashing?
 

We explore the concept of community-building, the power of utopia, and what kind of tools are at our disposal to find ways to gum up the system destroying the ecosystem.

 

You can get Peter's book from Pluto Press: https://www.plutobooks.com/

Find Peter on Twitter @PeterGelderloos
 

 

Support this podcast through Patreon at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

We're joined by Tim Clemens at Ironwood Foraging to discuss fitness, health, and the left's relationship with sports. What does fitness really mean, how do we engage with fitness when so many of us have complicated relationships with food and sports?

Tim founded Ironwood Foraging in 2017 to offer hands-on plant and mushroom foraging workshops. He is the past president of the Minnesota Mycological Society, a Minnesota Master Naturalist, and a certified wild mushroom expert. Tim holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology/Archaeology from the University of Minnesota and a certificate in Environmental Education from Cornell University. You can also find Tim on Instagram @mnforager.

 

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/

 

 

How deep is your understanding of the soil beneath your feet? Jeff Lowenfels, a lawyer-turned-gardening expert, takes us on an insightful journey from using Miracle-Gro to becoming a staunch advocate for organic gardening. Through fascinating stories of his transformation, Jeff reveals how interactions with JI Rodale and Dr. Elaine Ingham opened his eyes to the wonders of the soil food web. Discover the pivotal role of mycorrhizal fungi and the critical movement of nutrients from soil to plants, all explored in his latest book, "Teaming with Bacteria."

Ever wondered about the secret life of bacteria in your garden soil? This episode uncovers the complex relationships between plants and bacteria within root meristem cells. Learn how bacteria and plants engage in a symbiotic dance involving superoxide and nitrate production for mutual growth benefits. We also discuss the broader implications for soil health and sustainable agriculture, stressing the importance of bacteria-produced slime in maintaining soil structure and the dangers of chemical interventions.

From composting and vermicomposting to innovative methods like Korean Natural Farming, Jeff shares traditional and modern soil-building techniques that nurture the soil food web. Highlighting the importance of endophytic bacteria in seeds, Jeff advises against sterilizing seeds and soil. Stay tuned as we explore the future of beneficial bacterial identification technologies and reflect on the groundbreaking insights from Jeff's series of books, starting with "Teaming with Microbes." This conversation is a treasure trove of knowledge that will inspire you to embrace organic gardening and understand the science behind it.

If you’re not familiar with Jeff, he describes himself as an “reformed lawyer”, who also happens to write the longest running garden column in North America, having never missed a week in 41 years. The combination of garden writing and law earned him the moniker of “America’s Dirtiest Lawyer,”. He is the former President of the Garden Writers of America, a GWA Fellow and in 2005 was inducted into the GWA Hall of Fame, the highest honor a garden writer can achieve.

Jeff is also the founder of a now national program that started as “Plant a Row for Bean’s,” the soup kitchen in Anchorage, and is now “Plant A Row for The Hungry.” The program is active all 50 states and Canada and has resulted in millions pounds of garden produce being donated to feed the hungry every year.

As of this recording, Jeff has just released his newest book of the Teaming With Series. You might be familiar with Teaming with Microbes, Teaming with Nutrients, but his newest book, Teaming with Bacteria, sheds an entirely new light on some of the most cutting edge soil science research, and that’s what we’re here to talk about today.

You can find Jeff on Twitter @GardenerJeff and you can buy his book series at jefflowenfels.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/

J. Russell Smith might be the most well-known figure in history in regards to tree crops in North America— largely because of his book “Tree Crops: A Permanent Agriculture”, which has been a foundational text for many people in permaculture and agroecological spaces. While this book is worthwhile for any novice and experienced horticulturalist to read, his work expands much further than this one book. In fact, his successes and imprint on industries for generations were so expansive, often working on international or groundbreaking projects in different fields concurrently, instead of organizing this piece on a linear timeline, it will be much easier to understand by clustering in the fields of academic, geography & industry, youth public education, food systems, conservation, and food production.

 

In this episode, we dive into the second half of the life of ecologist and tree crops specialist J. Russell Smith.

 

Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/j-russell-smith 

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/

 

In this episode, we're joined by Brandon Rust, founder of Bokashi Earthworks and known for his extensive expertise in cannabis growing. Brandon's work walks the tight rope between understanding conventional agricultural practices and how to maximize yield and data tracking while also embracing many natural farming methods. Why is this balance important, and what does it look like?

 

Check out Brandon's incredible work on Instagram @Rust.Brandon and if you're looking to buy products from Bokashi Earthworks, visit: https://www.bokashiearthworks.com/?wpam_id=21

As of this episode drop, there is a 25% sale using the code BLACKFRIDAY

 

To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

The Vietnam War gave birth to a new generation of veterans, ones who came back from war feeling abandoned by their government and by their fellow civilians. Unlike prior wars, the enemies were largely non-white and the terrain of war was entirely different. Guerrilla war and traps created the conditions of dehumanization that bled racism into anti-communism. Upon returning home, many found themselves disgusted by the United States government and found the country they returned to much different than the country they had left, as progressive policies had taken hold through the late years of the 60s and early 70s. We highlighted this with the rise of the Back to the Land movement, and how the countercultural revolution fed into new visions of the future.

Many point to the startling rise in white supremacy in the late 20th century to the aftermath of the Vietnam War. As narrated by white power proponents, the Vietnam War was a story of constant danger, gore, and horror. It was also a story of soldiers’ betrayal by military and political leaders and of the trivialization of their sacrifice. This narrative increased paramilitarism and separationism through homesteading and communes within the movement. In his speeches, newsletters, and influential 1983 collection Essays of a Klansman, movement leader Louis Beam urged activists to continue fighting the Vietnam War on American soil. When he told readers to “bring it on home,” he meant a literal extension of military-style combat into civilian space. He referred to two wars: the one he had fought in Vietnam and the white revolution he hoped to wage in the United States.

In this episode, we explore how the politics of the 1960s and 70s drove the homesteader movement and shifted the focus of growing food as a means of resistance and purity. How did this movement shape homesteading, and how prominent was it?

To read about this movement further, check out the following substack for sources and further details:

https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/homesteading-and-white-supremacy

This episode is sponsored by: Eric Toensmeier at https://www.perennialsolutions.org/

Check out his upcoming class!

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/

In this episode, we're joined by Kathleen Draper, the Board Chair of the International Biochar Initiative. We chat about the past 3 decades of biochar research, its limitations, and its potential. While biochar gets most of its attention around building soil, it has a number of other potential uses which should be getting just as much attention as its role in some soils. Tune in to learn about some of the many research projects going on across the globe around biochar!

 

Kathleen Draper is the co-author of BURN: Using Fire to Cool the Earth & is the Board Chair of International Biochar Initiative

Learn more about IBI, IBI Membership, and read IBI’s monthly newsletter.

IBI offers a Biochar Certification Program to help producers prove the high value of their biochar products.

Access training with IBI’s online Biochar Training Program, a 19-part video training series designed to teach the how-to of biochar production and use, how to commercialize products through the study of biochar production technologies, biochar standards and classification. 

Follow IBI on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and see their library of videos on YouTube.

 

 

Support this podcast by visiting www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac or sign up for our newsletter at www.poorproles.com 

The role of corn in our diet cannot be overstated, whether it's through animal feed for meat production, ethanol to transport our food, high fructose corn syrup, corn flour, or any of the other ways it has been introduced. Corn is a staple for good reason; it stores well, grows incredibly efficiently, and we've gotten really, really good at growing it. Despite this, there's an underbelly to this industry that often gets overlooked in the conversation about what the future of our food looks like. How did we get here, and how does the modern corn we eat today related to the crops indigenous people across the Americas have been harvesting and breeding for thousands of years?

In this "Tomorrow, Today" crossover episode, we're joined by Helen Anne Curry, author of "Endangered Maize: Industrial Agriculture & the Crisis of Extinction" and Kranzberg Professor of the History of Technology in the School of History and Sociology at Georgia Tech. We chat about this complex relationship between modern corn and its relatives, often called landrace or unimproved corn varieties. But are these actually unimproved varieties? Researchers became aware that the corn we grow today had a very narrow genetic pool, and it was imperative to make sure the diversity of corn that existed across the continents was protected. Like most things, it was more complex than that. How did the cold war, multinational corporations, and the green revolution impact the evolution of corn? Tune in to find out!

Historian Helen Anne Curry on her book "Endangered Maize: Industrial Agriculture and the Crisis of Extinction" from University of California Press.

www.ucpress.edu/book/978052030769…/endangered-maize

Find Helen Anne Curry on Twitter at @HACurry

 

Support this podcast through Patreon at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" continues the story of Efraím Hernández Xolokotzi and examines his experiences at the National Agricultural College in Chapingo (NAC). The episode highlights Xolo's criticisms of the college's curriculum and teaching methods, noting that he believed they were too rigid, lacked socioeconomic context, and did not incorporate indigenous knowledge systems. Xolo argued that agronomists should be "fundamentally biologists with agricultural studies" and discard "old concepts" of rigid categorization. He advocated for higher pay for instructors, the requirement of doctorates, and a greater emphasis on research that was relevant to the specific conditions of Mexico. However, his recommendations were largely ignored.

The episode explores the NAC as a representation of the larger issues surrounding the Green Revolution in Mexico. The school became a platform for modern agricultural technology and practices due to substantial funding from the Rockefeller Foundation, successfully promoting the American approach to agriculture. The institution's emphasis on technology and industrial-scale farming was in direct opposition to the traditional, small-scale agriculture practiced by most Mexican farmers. Xolo's worries about the loss of indigenous knowledge and the possible detrimental effects of modernization resonated with a growing number of students who grew increasingly critical of the school's curriculum and focus.

Despite the NAC's emphasis on discipline and conformity, there was a strong undercurrent of revolutionary spirit within the student body. This was influenced by the school's history, particularly a traumatic incident during the Mexican Revolution where students witnessed an execution on campus. Students voiced their concerns about the disconnect between their education and the realities of Mexican agriculture, criticizing the quality of instruction, the lack of practical knowledge, and the school's focus on training "agronomic factory workers" rather than researchers and innovators. Student activism was expressed through protests, boycotts, and critical articles in the student newspaper.

By 1960, the negative impacts of the Green Revolution were becoming more evident, and Xolo's criticisms grew more pointed. He openly condemned the destruction of Mexican identity and the environmental harm caused by the drive for modernization. He claimed that the Green Revolution was producing "poor imitations of agriculture in other countries" and failing to address the socioeconomic realities of Mexican farmers. Xolo continued to advocate for the integration of traditional knowledge into agricultural education, emphasizing the importance of learning from campesino farmers. He recognized the elders and adults within indigenous communities as essential sources of knowledge, highlighting their "empirical method" that had been tested over generations.

The episode emphasizes the fundamental conflict between Xolo's approach and the prevailing paradigm of the Green Revolution. Xolo's emphasis on biodiversity, ecological balance, and the preservation of traditional knowledge was in stark contrast to the focus on maximizing yields through technological interventions. His vision for sustainable and culturally appropriate agriculture clashed with the push for uniformity and standardization that characterized the Green Revolution. The episode sets the stage for Xolo's ongoing resistance to the Green Revolution and his efforts to promote a more holistic and equitable approach to agriculture in Mexico.

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/

Through the previous two episodes, we outlined the realities of honeybees and the limitations of the ecosystems around us to support honeybees. With that in mind, if we choose to continue to live alongside European Honeybees, what should that look like?

Decoding Bee Society: An Introduction to Honeybee Biology and Behavior

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac," titled "Episode 138 #3: Beekeeping 101 for Beginners," offers an introductory exploration into the captivating world of honeybees. Hosts Andy and Elliot engage in their signature blend of informative and humor-laden dialogue, covering the basics of honeybee biology, their social structure, and the intricate roles within the hive. Although framed as a beginner's guide to beekeeping, the episode provides valuable insights for anyone curious about the fascinating lives of these buzzing pollinators.

Honeybees: More Than Just "Butt Stabby Sky Caterpillars"

The episode kicks off with Andy's humorous, albeit inaccurate, description of honeybees as "butt stabby sky caterpillars". This lighthearted introduction sets the tone for the discussion, which quickly dives into a more scientifically accurate classification of these insects.

Honeybees belong to the order Hymenoptera, which includes wasps, ants, and sawflies. Within this order, honeybees are further categorized under the genus Apis mellifera, encompassing a diverse array of over 7,500 species.

The hosts emphasize that honeybees are considered "eusocial" insects, meaning they exhibit a high level of social organization and cooperation within their colonies. This intricate social structure involves a complex division of labor, cooperative brood care, and overlapping generations within the hive.

The Circle of Life: The Eight Stages of a Honeybee's Existence

The episode provides a detailed overview of a honeybee's life cycle, which unfolds in eight distinct stages, beginning with an egg. The hosts briefly touch upon the intriguing possibility of bee eggs as a culinary delicacy, albeit acknowledging the lack of widespread consumption.

From Egg to Larva: The Role of Royal Jelly

The hosts explain that upon hatching from the egg, the honeybee larva resembles a "tiny white glistening worm-like" creature. During the initial stages of development, all female larvae are fed royal jelly, a nutrient-rich substance secreted by nurse bees.

The quantity and duration of royal jelly consumption determine the fate of the female bee. Those destined to become queens receive a continuous supply of royal jelly throughout their larval stage, spanning four and a half days. Worker larvae, on the other hand, transition to a diet of bee bread, also known as brood food, after just two days.

Drones: The "Five-Headed" Members of the Hive

Drone larvae, the males of the colony, follow a similar dietary pattern but extend their royal jelly intake for six days, which the hosts attribute to their "giant ass head". The hosts highlight the physical distinction of drones, noting their larger size and prominent eyes.

The episode also reveals a fascinating detail about drone cell placement within the hive. Worker bees strategically position drone cells around the edges of the brood frames. This placement ensures that during periods of cold weather, the drones, deemed less essential for the hive's survival, are the first to perish.

From Larva to Pupa: Metamorphosis Within a "Secret Cocoon"

As the larvae mature, worker bees cap their cells, initiating the pupation stage. The hosts describe this transformation as occurring within a "secret cocoon" spun by the larva. Inside this cocoon, the larva undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis, developing the characteristic features of an adult bee: three distinct body parts, six legs, four wings, and compound eyes.

Emerging from the Cocoon: Life as a Worker, Drone, or Queen

The episode outlines the varying emergence times for each bee type: worker bees take 21 days, drones 24 days, and queens a mere 16 days. This discrepancy in development time, particularly the shorter duration for queens, is attributed to the richer diet they receive as larvae and their crucial role within the hive.

Newly emerged queens engage in a fierce competition for dominance, seeking out rival queens and queen cells in an attempt to eliminate any contenders. This "Highlander" scenario ensures that only one queen reigns supreme within the hive.

Drones: The "Lottery Winners" of the Hive

Drones, upon emerging from their cells, enjoy a life of relative leisure. Worker bees cater to their needs, feeding them until they are self-sufficient. The hosts humorously characterize drones as "teddy bears with dicks that can fly," highlighting their lack of involvement in hive maintenance tasks.

Worker Bees: The Backbone of the Hive

Worker bees, comprising the majority of the hive population, shoulder the responsibility of all hive operations, excluding reproduction and mating. Their tasks range from building and maintaining the hive structure to foraging for food, caring for the queen, drones, and larvae. Despite their tireless efforts, worker bees typically have a lifespan of six weeks, although this extends to six months during the winter.

The Queen: The Egg-Laying Monarch

Queens, the largest bees within the hive, possess elongated abdomens for their primary function: egg-laying. Their lifespan typically ranges from a few years to a maximum of eight years. The queen's presence within the hive is marked by a pheromone that allows other bees to recognize her.

The episode underscores that the queen's development into a reproductive female hinges on her consistent diet of royal jelly during her larval stage.

The Mating Flight: A "Giant B Orgy in the Sky"

The episode concludes with a description of the queen's mating flight, which the hosts humorously dub a "giant B orgy in the sky". Around a week after emerging from her cell, the queen embarks on a mating flight to a drone congregating area. There, she mates with multiple drones from other hives, ensuring genetic diversity within her colony. This mating frenzy typically lasts for two to four days.

Upon returning to the hive, the queen begins laying eggs within 48 hours. If weather conditions or other circumstances prevent the queen from completing her mating flight within 20 to 30 days, she loses her ability to mate and can only lay unfertilized eggs, which develop into drones.

The episode wraps up with a promise of more in-depth explorations of specific aspects of bee biology and behavior in future episodes. Listeners are left with a tantalizing glimpse into the intricate world of honeybees, sparking curiosity and appreciation for these essential pollinators.

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 Erna Bennett, a lesser-known figure whose life intersected with major historical events and intellectual currents. The episode highlights Bennett's unconventional path, starting with her adventurous (and occasionally fabricated) military career, and moving towards her significant contributions to the field of genecology, a discipline that explores the relationship between genetic variation and environmental factors. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize Bennett's sharp wit, rebellious spirit, and unwavering commitment to her principles, even when those principles put her at odds with powerful institutions.

**The episode begins with a humorous acknowledgement of Bennett's obscurity, noting that finding meaningful information about her life requires digging through a "treasure trove" of obituaries, scholarly articles, and a four-hour audio interview held by the National Library of Australia. **

A Rebellious Youth: Early Signs of Bennett's Independent Spirit

The hosts trace Bennett's rebellious streak back to her childhood in Belfast, where she described the city as "rather awful." Her father, a socialist and policeman, encouraged her to challenge conventional thinking, a value that would shape her trajectory. **Her willingness to question authority is illustrated by an anecdote involving a priest who visited her home for her baptism. Rather than passively accepting religious doctrine, the teenage Bennett engaged in a spirited debate about creationism, ultimately driving the priest away. **

Wartime Adventures: Deception, Defiance, and a Growing Political Consciousness

Bennett's adventurous spirit took center stage during World War II. She lied about her age to enlist in the British army, and later, when relegated to kitchen duties, she boldly claimed to be a skilled pilot, despite having only a "theoretical" understanding of flying. Her first flight was a chaotic test of the plane's limits, leaving her instructor speechless and terrified, while she discreetly vomited in a corner. This episode in her life highlights both her audacity and her capacity for learning on the fly (pun very much intended by the podcast hosts).

**Her wartime experiences in Greece proved to be a political awakening. ** Assigned to British intelligence, Bennett's task was to identify Greek activists who were sympathetic to British interests. However, this work exposed her to the brutal realities of power politics and the manipulation of resistance movements. Witnessing the British government's collaboration with the Nazis to undermine leftist factions within Greece, she became disillusioned with the Allied cause.

Defection and the Embrace of a New Cause

Driven by her evolving political convictions, Bennett made the radical decision to defect from the British army and join the Greek partisans. She acknowledged the risks and moral complexities of her actions, recognizing that her work with British intelligence had been harmful. She expresses gratitude towards the Greek partisans for accepting her despite her past. This period solidified her commitment to socialism and exposed her to the richness and resilience of traditional agriculture, which she saw being threatened by "progress" imposed by outside forces.

Post-War Struggles and a Forging of a New Path

Upon her return to England, Bennett faced consequences for her desertion, being court-martialed and ostracized by former friends. The onset of the Cold War further compounded her difficulties, as her communist affiliations made her unemployable in many fields. Despite these setbacks, she pursued her education, earning degrees in botany from London and Durham Universities. She persevered through financial hardship and isolation, eventually securing a position at the National Library of Science and Technology, where her linguistic skills proved valuable.

The Scottish Plant Breeding Station: Laying the Groundwork for Genecology

Bennett's career path led her to the Scottish Plant Breeding Station, where she worked with Jim Gregor, a renowned geneticist known for his studies on microevolution. It was during this time that she began to articulate her ideas around genecology, a branch of ecology that examines the interplay between genetic diversity within species and their distribution across varied environments. This work focused on understanding how plants adapt to specific ecological conditions, and how those adaptations might be lost in the context of domestication and monoculture agriculture.

The Looming Threat of Genetic Erosion: Bennett Sounds the Alarm

**By the 1950s, Bennett was already raising concerns about the potential negative impacts of the Green Revolution, which was rapidly expanding across the globe. ** Her focus was on the alarming loss of genetic diversity within crops, as traditional varieties were replaced by high-yielding but genetically uniform cultivars. She saw parallels between the destruction of traditional agriculture in Greece and the processes unfolding in other parts of the world, as industrial agriculture spread its reach. Her research highlighted the importance of preserving the genetic resources found in wild and locally adapted crops, which could hold the key to future resilience in the face of disease and environmental change.

Joining the FAO: A Platform for Advocacy and a Watershed Moment

The episode concludes with Bennett joining the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1967, a position that allowed her to advance her ideas on a global scale. Her work with the FAO centered around collecting and preserving plant genetic resources, particularly in the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. **She observed firsthand how the introduction of "improved" crops was leading to the displacement of local varieties, resulting in a homogenization of agriculture that posed significant risks for food security. **

The 1967 FAO Technical Conference marked a pivotal moment in Bennett's career and in the growing awareness of the importance of genetic diversity. It was at this conference that the term "genetic erosion" was coined, underscoring the urgent need to protect the genetic resources that underpinned global food systems. Bennett delivered a powerful keynote address, warning of the long-term consequences of neglecting genetic conservation and urging the agricultural community to adopt a more holistic and ecologically sound approach.

**The episode foreshadows the conflicts and challenges that Bennett would face as she continued to advocate for her vision of a more sustainable and diverse agriculture, a vision that ran counter to the dominant logic of the Green Revolution. **

To hear her own autobiographical retelling of her story, tune in here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvPtCF4i-UZl8qEepMmXuVgHs9gGVK-VK

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're joined by writer & producer Joe Yates, who is part of the Yawk'laanaas tribe. We discuss the PBS award-winning show 'Molly of Denali', the importance of TV that reflects very complicated realities around representation and finding common threads across audiences. If you're not familiar with the show 'Molly of Denali', it is an animated children's show created by Dorothea Gillim and Kathy Waugh. The series is the first American nationally distributed children's show to feature an Alaska Native as the lead character.

 

You can learn more about Joe's work at alaskanfilms.com

 

Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac

The prole boys finally tackle the most divisive of nuts-- the black walnuts. Are they feety? How important have they been historically, anyway? Is juglone actually a problem-- and if so, what can be done about it? Lastly, what about the black walnut industry can we take away for other potential wild tree crops as potential food sources for our communities? This will be the first and (hopefully) last episode you'll ever need to understand the black walnut.

 

Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/black-walnuts

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/

 

 

We're joined by Chris from Kentucky Heartwood to discuss protecting old-growth forests and unique ecosystems that are home to rare and endangered species from clearcutting by the forestry service. Your first thought might be, "Why is the forestry service clearcutting public lands?" We chat about this, and how their solutions fall short. 

​Kentucky Heartwood was formed in 1992 by people concerned about logging, mining, and off-road vehicles on the Daniel Boone National Forest (DBNF). We advocate for the greatest protections of Kentucky’s public lands, with the twin values of protecting and restoring ecological integrity and a reverence and respect for wild nature as our guiding principles. Through public education, outreach, forest monitoring, and the suite of administrative and legal avenues of public participation and recourse, Kentucky Heartwood continues our tradition of effective advocacy.

 

You can learn more about Kentucky Heartwood at KYheartwood.com & at @KentuckyHeartwood on Instagram

 

Support this podcast through Patreon at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

We're joined by two activists working to defend the Atlanta Forest during an attempt to tear down the forest in order to build both a mock city for police to develop urban trainings, which would train police nationally. We talk about what different tactics have been successful and what tactics people should be bringing to defense projects where they live.

 

The intro to this podcast comes from the Defend the Atlanta Forest website

Learn more about the movement: 

https://defendtheatlantaforest.org

 

Learn more about the contractors hired to destroy the forest and build Cop City and Hollywood Dystopia: 

https://stopreevesyoung.com

 

Anonymous communiques from forest defenders:

https://scenes.noblogs.org

 

An article exploring the meanings of this movement and the projects its fighting against:

https://www.e-flux.com/architecture/horizons/493130/stop-the-metaverse-save-the-real-world/

 

A recent Rolling Stone article on the movement:

https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/defend-atlanta-forest-copy-city-climate-change-defund-the-police-1397188/

 

 

Support this podcast through Patreon at www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac