Spring 2009, April 25-May 4
BPC Announces the first
Ethnobotanical Andean Foray: Exploring past & present cultural strategies for life on Earth
Come join us! For 10 days in Spring of 2009 a small group of us will walk the land and explore the plants, customs, and archaeology of the Andean realm of the Urubamba Valley in south central Peru, a region of rugged mountains, pastoral landscapes, and mysterious ruins.
Immerse yourself in a vibrant ecological tapestry woven by the reciprocal relations of distinct flora and fauna, stunning geography, and traditional cultures whose roots reach far into the past drawing essential nutrients from their ancient traditions.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn the basics of the dynamic science of ethnobotany, conservation based plant and seed collecting, traditional agriculture, indigenous Andean spirituality and cross cultural shamanism. Examine some of the most alluring archaeological sites in the world, and consider how the triumphs and faults of past cultures reflect our modern dilemma of how to live on this wondrous planet we all call home.
See here for the trip ITINERARY and other details.
There is still a few spaces available for the trip, let us know asap if you are interested in joining us!
info@botanicalpreservationcorps.com
Our Guides:
Ben Kamm – Director of Botanical Preservation Corps and Sacred Succulents nursery and seed bank. Ethnobotanical researcher and student of and the herbalist traditions of the world. A conservation horticulturalist working with ecologically innovative methods of propagation and seed germination of rare beneficial plants. Ben is dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of traditional and contemporary plant knowledge as well as the plants themselves.
Matthew Magee – Teacher of cross-cultural shamanism and indigenous spirituality. Author of Peruvian Shamanism: The Pachakuti Mesa. His work has been covered by organizations such as National Geographic and National Public Radio (NPR). Despite several college degrees, Matthew’s true education was derived from 11 years apprenticeship in the curandero traditions of Peru and 2 years spent living with the Mi’kmaq peoples in New Brunswick, Canada.
Neil Logan – Ethnobotanist and Living Systems Designer. Neil is the developer of the Bioregional Ethnoecology Database and a consultant for Integrated Living Systems Design, LLC. Trained in ethnobotany, horticulture, agroforestry and permaculture design; Neil offers insights into ancient agricultural systems, wild and cultivated species assemblages of human utility as well as modern sustainable systems.
