Bustan Qaraaqa - West Bank
In April 2008, Alice together with ecologist Tom Henderson founded this exciting permaculture project in an ancient farmhouse nestling in a beautiful wadi (valley). The farm serves as a centre for experimentation with techniques for sustainable living and food production. During the short period since it was set up, progress at the farm has been phenomenal. Their tree nursery is a diverse collection of living trees available for distribution to local communities, and their water cistern enables them to work on rainwater harvesting and farming techniques. All this represents a precious resource for project volunteers and local groups.
To mention some of the few local activities. Together with Juzoor a Palestinian NGO based in East Jerusalem they have organised educational tree planting events, and have hosted an environmental education workshop for 25 school children. They have been running some green-water aquaculture projects in Artas community, a small farming village on the outskirts of Bethlehem, and they are working with Paidia, an American-run NGO that “exists to engage individuals, especially youth, in ethical leadership development, empowering them to transform themselves and their communities.
If you are able to pay a visit, you will find Bustan Qaraaqa both fascinating and inspiring. A look at their website www.bustanqaraaqa.org tells what they are doing and lots more. Full of exciting plans for 2011 and beyond, Bustan Qaraaqa like any charity is in need of funds. If you would like to help a fellow SMOG, here is the information. You can contribute using PayPal on the website ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ); or send a cheque made out to Bustan Qaraaqa to The Old School, Lydfords Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 NJ.