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The Market Gardener Podcast Ep. 19

Urban Permaculture & Rethinking Regenerative Agriculture

with Benjamin Fahrer

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About this episode

This week, we speak with Benjamin Fahrer, a permaculture designer and farmer, who combines ecological principles with innovative rooftop farm designs across cities in California.

Benjamin shares how his background in building and permaculture design shaped his vision for creating resilient food systems. We explore the importance of soil health, biodiversity, and regenerative practices in addressing both climate and social challenges. Benjamin highlights the value of fresh, nutrient-dense produce and the potential of urban agriculture to reconnect communities with truly healthy food.

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[03:00] Importance of design in farming.
[04:30] Benjamin’s farming and building roots.
[07:04] Discovering permaculture design.
[10:09] Lessons from pioneers like Bob Cannard.
[12:46] Wendell Berry on perfection and humility.
[20:39] Urban farming challenges and opportunities.
[25:08] Esalen Institute: blending farming and spirituality.
[39:33] Food freshness and nutrient density.
[50:28] Key steps for regenerative ag: Reckoning, restoration, resilience.
[55:08] Tillage and soil health: timing matters.
[1:03:36] Farms as ‘refugia’ in climate change.
[1:09:18] Insights from rooftop farming projects.
[1:26:05] Designing for diversity and nature’s role.
[1:31:04] Soil microbiome and farming practices
[1:50:01] Rapid fire Q&A
[1:50:26] The Tao Of Leadership by John Heider & Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu

Mentioned Links & Resources

Benjamin Fahrer

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Welcome to The Marketer Gardener Podcast!

Your gateway to the vibrant world of organic small-scale farming. JM Fortier and Chris Moran explore the big ideas, challenges, and solutions that shape our food system. Join us and the leading voices in sustainable agriculture as we dive into insightful conversations that empower, educate, and inspire action.

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