Exploring Long Creek Haven: A Thriving Permaculture Sanctuary

Tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Maryland, Long Creek Haven is a 25-acre permaculture site dedicated to regenerative living, ecological harmony, and organic food production. This mixed woodland and food forest sanctuary, nestled along the banks of a tranquil, meandering creek, offers a diverse range of eco-zones that serve as both an abundant resource and an ever-evolving classroom for those eager to learn from the land and permaculture practices.

A Home Rooted in Natural Building Traditions

In 2016, we realized a long-held dream: the completion of our roundwood timber-framed, strawbale home. Built using locally sourced materials, this circular structure is a testament to the beauty, craftsmanship, and efficiency of natural building. The thick, strawbale-insulated walls provide exceptional thermal performance, keeping the home warm in winter and cool in summer while reducing energy consumption. Beyond functionality, this home embodies our commitment to living in harmony with nature, showcasing the potential of sustainable architecture to create comfortable, beautiful, and resilient living spaces.

See our progress and learn more about this natural building technique.

A Living, Breathing Food Forest

At the heart of Long Creek Haven is its expansive food forest, a dynamic, multi-layered ecosystem designed to mimic the resilience and productivity of a natural forest. Spread across multiple zones and at various stages of maturity, our food forests boast over 500 varieties of cultivated fruits, nuts, and medicinal plants. These carefully selected species not only provide sustenance but also contribute to soil health, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.

Regenerative Gardening and Water Harvesting

Our gardens are thoughtfully designed using raised-bed swales and hugelkultur beds, techniques that work with the natural flow of water and nutrients to create self-sustaining, highly productive systems. By passively harvesting rainwater, these structures help prevent erosion, improve soil moisture retention, and create microclimates that support a rich diversity of plant life. These regenerative methods allow us to grow an abundance of fresh, nutrient-dense food while reducing the need for irrigation and external inputs.

Mushrooms: Food, Fertility, and Forest Health

Mushrooms play an integral role in the Long Creek Haven ecosystem. Throughout our landscape, we cultivate a variety of culinary and medicinal mushrooms, which not only provide a delicious and nutritious food source but also contribute to soil enrichment and forest regeneration. Mycelial networks enhance soil fertility, break down organic matter, and create symbiotic relationships with trees and plants, strengthening the resilience of the entire system.

A Living Classroom for Ecological Learning

Long Creek Haven is more than just a permaculture homestead—it is a space for learning, experimentation, and community engagement. Whether through hands-on workshops, guided tours, or immersive experiences, we are passionate about sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas, and inspiring others to cultivate deeper connections with the land.

From food forests and fungi to water-wise gardening and natural building, Long Creek Haven demonstrates how regenerative practices can restore landscapes, nourish communities, and create a more sustainable future.