Ecosystem Restoration Communities

Get Involved

Take up the Task of Earth Restoration

Ecosystem Restoration Communities offer hands-on experiences at sites around the world, where you can learn practical restoration skills, deepen your connection with the earth, and contribute directly to healing the land. Whether you join an online or in-person event to build your knowledge, or volunteer your time for a meaningful, immersive experience – on site or on the ground – you’ll become part of a global movement restoring ecosystems and strengthening communities.

Upcoming Events

The Magic and Science of Soil

19 June 2026, 15h00 - 17h00

ERC Furnace Brook, East Sussex (UK)

Join Soil Association Ambassador and founder of Compost Club Michael Kennard for a two-hour dive into the fascinating world of soil!

We’ll learn how soil works as an ecosystem – from bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, right up to worms! Did you know that worms have five hearts?!

Whether you’re just starting out in your garden, an allotment or a seasoned farmer, there will be takeaways for everyone. Perhaps even a look through the microscope into the exciting world under our feet.

Ecosystem restoration can take place in our own gardens, starting with the soil – and reconnecting to that is the best place to start!

Soil Film Night

19 June 2026, 18h00 - 21h00

ERC Furnace Brook, East Sussex (UK)

Join us at Furnace Brook for a special film screening exploring the power and importance of soil, as part of our Summer Solstice Weekend celebrations.

Set in our lakeside barn, this relaxed evening is an opportunity to come together, reflect and learn about the vital role soil plays in supporting life on Earth — from food systems to ecosystems and climate resilience.

This screening is part of our wider programme celebrating the Summer Solstice, marking the height of the growing season and our connection to the land.

Introduction to Scything

4 July 2026, 10h00 - 12h30

ERC Siolta Chroi, Monorgan (Ireland)

Join Chris Hayes – expert scythe user and teacher – and discover history and theory, bodily alignment and hands on use of the scythe!

This workshop is all about getting to know the scythe, with a special focus on the Austrian scythe. You’ll learn what all the parts do and pick up practical mowing techniques—like how to stand and move properly so you don’t end up with a sore back. The session also covers how to keep your blade in top shape through sharpening and peening, plus an interesting look at scythe history from an Irish angle and how the industrial revolution changed things. You’ll discover smart ways to manage grass and learn how to cut and dry everything from grass to cereals and other fibrous plants. If you’ve got your own traditional scythe, feel free to bring it along, and Austrian scythes will be available to buy on the day. Wrap it all up with a chance to ask questions about any specific challenges or concerns you have with your land.

Introduction to Permaculture Design with Huw Richards & Matt Swarbick

4 - 6 September 2026

ERC Henbant Permaculture Farm, Caernarfon (Wales)

This Introduction to Permaculture Design course is ideal for anyone wanting to understand how to work with nature to create more resilient gardens, farms, homes, and communities. Rooted in the real-world experience of a working permaculture farm, this course blends inspiring theory with practical application. Upon completion of the course you will be issued with a certificate accredited by the Permaculture Association showcasing you have completed your introduction to permaculture. Matt Swarbrick is a regenerative farmer and co-founder of Henbant Permaculture Farm . Huw Richards is a passionate permaculture gardener, Sunday Times bestselling author, and YouTuber dedicated to making growing food simple, accessible, and rewarding.

Ecosystem Regeneration Camp

2 - 8 November 2026

ERC Quinta Vale da Lama​, near Lagos (Portugal)

The Ecosystem Regeneration Camp (ERC) is an immersive learning, action, and networking experience which shares, develops, and puts into practice seasonal knowledge of agroforestry and ecological regeneration. People from diverse backgrounds come together to act as regeneration agents for 7 days in a residential camp near Lagos, Portugal.

Participants come away from this training program with more knowledge, skills, and confidence in ecosystem restoration, while also creating powerful relationships with fellow attendees.

The program is taught in English, and the price is based on a donation model. Hit the link for more information.

Introduction to Food Forest Design

7 November 2026, 10h00 - 16h00

ERC Siolta Chroi, Monorgan (Ireland)

Join us for an introductory course on designing and implementing a food forest – a layered, self-sustaining edible ecosystem modeled after natural forests! Whether you’re a homesteader, community gardener, educator, or permaculture enthusiast, this course offers the essential tools and insights to begin creating resilient, low-maintenance landscapes that produce food, restore soil, and support biodiversity. Through a combination of classroom theory, hands-on exercises, and collaborative design work, participants will explore the art and science of food forest design, including ecosystem mimicry, succession planning, plant guilds, and soil regeneration techniques.

 

Ongoing Events

Drylands Agroecology Research (DAR) Vounteer Days

1st and 3rd Thursday of every month, 16h00 - 19h00

ERC Elk Run Farm, Colorado (US)

Join us from May until October alternating between our two gardens:

Food Solidarity Garden days will be spent tending DAR’s one-acre annual and perennial garden at Yellow Barn Farm.

Elk Run Farm days will take place up the road in the Forest Garden, DAR’s pilot site and conceptual model for much of our perennial ecological stewardship.

We’ll spend our time together planting, weeding, mulching, harvesting, food processing, snacking, building community and so much more!

Tuesdays of Regen

Every Tuesday, 10h00 - 13h00

ERC Quinta Vale da Lama​, near Lagos (Portugal)

Spend time learning about and engaging in regenerative agricultural practices by being directly involved in a variety of hands-on activities around the farm. Come get your hands dirty while enjoying nature, and being a part of a like-minded group of earth stewards.

Anyone wishing to explore or be involved in ecosystem restoration can participate, whether you are a curious beginner, have some previous experience, or have been doing regeneration work for years. Everyone is welcome. This program is open to locals and visitors to the area alike.

Each session is planned and facilitated by Hugo Oliveira, Landscape Ecologist and Permaculture Designer.

Field Good Fridays

Every Friday, 10h00 - 16h00

ERC Field Good Fridays, County Clare (Ireland)

Field Good Fridays is part of the Our Common Knowledge initiative, and is open to anyone looking to connect with nature and each other, through a hands-on restoration experience. Come join us on our 20 hectare/50 acre site in Kilfenora, Co. Clare, as we collectively grow our skills, restore ecosystems, build community, and feel good! Everyone is welcome, just bring along a bout of enthusiasm, a willingness to get your hands dirty, and connect in this special community!Typical activities include digging wildlife ponds, removing invasive plant species, planting trees, managing wildflower meadows or harvesting fresh organic vegetables. And of course a nutritious lunch and plenty of time to connect and share over a cup of tea!

Volunteer at an ERC

Know Before you Go

Before visiting an Ecosystem Restoration Community you will need to read and accept our Terms & Conditions and our Code of Conduct.

The restoration communities are mostly run by a very small team of dedicated volunteers who are rather stretched, especially because they spend most of their time physically restoring the land. So please understand if communications are a little slow.

Every Ecosystem Restoration Community is different: some have minimum/maximum stays for volunteers, and some charge a stipend (basic fee) for food and accommodation because many are non profit organisations not able to cover the cost of volunteer expenses. You’ll need to enquire directly about the duration and cost of your stay. 

If you’re volunteering, we suggest a video call check-in with the ERC leader before you arrive, to make sure you’re both prepared for the experience and to manage expectations. We also recommend some pre-departure reading about the ERC location including geography, culture and environmental challenges to ensure an informed and rewarding experience!

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