Rundown apartments reborn as food-forest coliving Agritopia

In 2007, Ole and Maitri Ersson bought the rundown Cabana apartment complex in the city and immediately began to de-pave parking spaces to make space for what today is a huge permaculture coliving space and urban food forest.
Today, the Kailash Ecovillage has 55 residents who all help farm where there was once pavement, grass, a swimming pool, and an overgrown weed patch.
The community is well-prepared for systems collapse; they have extensive rainwater collection and storage, plenty of produce and they process their own sewage. Their permitted sanitation project complies with international building codes for compost toilet and urine diversion systems and turns their pee and poop into nitrogen and compost.
Here, nearly everything is shared. There are two community electric cars - donated by the Erssons who no longer have a private car-, shared bicycles (and bike trailers), an extensive fruit orchard, berry and grape patches, and a considerable community garden space. Photovoltaics provide about two-thirds of the energy consumed by the complex.
Neil Robinson is the community’s full-time farmer who has sold thousands of dollars of Kailash produce at farmers' markets. He moved in as a way to prepare for systemic collapse. “I wanted to learn to grow food and then have a system that could step in. We have water, we have food.”
Ole explains, “We're in this zone where it's not a question of if, but when, we're going to get a Richter 9 earthquake… that's going to break all kinds of grids, the power grid is likely going to go down, the sewer grid almost undoubtedly and it's probably going to take months, if not years, to get the sewer system going again.” Their sanitation project can absorb 60 adults for months.
Rents here are lower than the Portland average because the Erssons want Kailash to be accessible to all income levels. There’s a 300-person waitlist, but Ole hopes others will follow their example.
"If you look at it from an economic perspective no business would want a complex landscape like this because it's way too much maintenance, but what you have to do is turn the maintenance over to the residents, and then they do it: they get joy; it's an antidepressant; it's a way of creating food; it's a way of creating community; so you have to do it in a certain way, but it's definitely a lot more work than the typical grass and shrub landscape for sure."
www.kailashecovillage.org
On *faircompanies: faircompanies.com/videos/apar...

[@theaugustissue1211]

This is what we should envy and work towards. Not some stressful occupation, seeking to build big houses, drive big or fast cars and spend money on shopping.

[@MamaFreedom333]

👏🏼 YES!

[@TherealAsanD]

I agree. I think they’re can be balance. Not everything has to be so polarizing. And I think the balance is what will attract more ppl to open their eyes to this way of thinking.

[@roaringlizard]

We can have both.

[@greenleafyman1028]

Currently, I'm saving up some money so I can have my own farm and able to leave this workplace of hell.

[@LowestofheDead]

There are huge legal and financial barriers - they could only buy this place because they had 30% of $1.7 Million for the down-payment. Meanwhile there are abandoned malls and buildings that volunteers would happily transform... but they'd be arrested by police as squatters. The same system that destroyed the climate stops any attempt to repair it. We have to think outside the system.

[@billysbees3521]

I live in Portland. This guy pulled some bamboo and put it on craigslist for free. I went and grabbed it and he showed me his operation. Such a wonderful place. He is the real deal, passionate, works hard, cares about the people who live there. Inspiring.

[@Digeroo123]

Poles for beans etc are quite pricy. I like the idea of growing my own.

[@laceras1611]

Food not bombs! So happy to hear that they rent their kitchen to such an amazing voluntary organization ❤️ their entire community is beautiful and inspiring

[@RoxieRHeart]

Yes! I volunteered at the LA Food Not Bombs for 4 years before I moved

[@HareKrsnaHareRama]

San Francisco “Food not Bombs” volunteer til I’d moved to India to retire (best move ever)😊

[@asjaosaline5987]

Utopia that does not work in reality, as side project its not that bad, but as centre of life it falls short in so many ways.

[@goudagirl6095]

I'm in the Dallas area. Giant "Agenda 2030" apartment complexes are going up everywhere, complete with surrounding "heat sink" concrete and asphalt parking lots. In my small community, any green space gets built upon, it's maddening. THIS IDEA in the video would be fantastic here in Texas, where the growing season is long and very mild (hot). Things could easily grow year-round here. THIS should be the "norm" as far as end-to-end living and farming, IMHO. What a great idea this is!

[@caddycraft6823]

did you see the Back to Eden gardening? so good. -just thought you might be interested, these methods don't need to be unnecessarily expensive

[@nappertandy9089]

Don't be silly, the world Govt will take care of you along with Monsanto/Bayer. Just give the Govt your 2a and they pinky swear to always be good.

[@precisiont5188]

Yes, the people in power are not doing what they should. They complain about the environment destruction while simultaneously contributing to the problem.

[@birgip.m.1236]

@@precisiont5188 Of course cuz they have privileges for them & rules for thee. Always been that way. The

[@frostxr]

To be honest, us human breed too much.

[@juliab.9684]

This gentleman right here is the embodiment of passion. Standing ovation for this community, they are setting an example. I love the design of it all, they've done such an intelligent work!!

[@luluparl1245]

👍

[@LarennPBel]

Yeah I love his vibe

[@jp13119]

Awesome!

[@MARIALUIZA-vu3no]

that's my dream for my next incarnation since l can't move to live there right now! 😉

[@chrismill5303]

for his age, what an active guy.

[@duotronic6451]

I used this as one model for rain water retention for my duplex in San Jose. Added rain retention swales, downspout redirection, gray water to fruit trees, converted grass to planting spaces. Completely changed irrigation to targeted weekly minimal watering. Won't mature for years. Great change already. My freezer is full of pluots, nectarines & peaches.

[@chezmoi42]

Well done! 🍒👍🍅Sounds like that wonderful project in Tucson that she covered a few years ago - kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZSkfoujbt98isk I so admire people who make these projects work, and fight for acceptance by city authorities. They are the future.

[@melindam4841]

Love to hear this. Thank you for the positive reinforcement to keep trying.

[@AB-ol5uz]

that's exciting, and shows the benefit that rain water is king when it comes to renewing the earth/growing food.

[@Dbb27]

You should do a video!

[@CaliforniasGoldCoast]

Bravo!

[@PSWildlife]

This man has so much energy! He's just buzzing around. This is my dream, creating a community that has massive gardens and is a wildlife preserve. I can't wait to buy land and start doing this!

[@user-kh1zo4sc9l]

I closed on 40 acres in May and will be getting started with an intentional tiny house community in February. I've tried the corporate dream, and it just doesn't work for me. I'm a country boy and there's no changing that.

[@garolopez887]

Likewise with myself!

[@flowerykid]

The joy in their faces when they talk about all this (especially the dude when he talks about the composting toilet and separating pee and poo) is simply delightful. They are so lovely!!

[@livehabesha4642]

yea that part was awesome and funny 😅

[@tothelighthouse9843]

I'm a gardener. I started the video & was like ok this guy's flaky & those plots are too tiny to be a food source...& then he took us to the orchard with 20 foot trees. & then he showed us the mud pond which does almost nothing except be a thriving ecosystem for hundreds of species of wonderful insects & animals...& then we hit the sh*t & p*ss section of the video & my heart actually starting beating faster. This community but especially this founding individual has thought of so many critical little steps that can be taken to ensure not only that they're not destroying the environment around them, BUT THAT THEY'RE ACTUALLY REPLENISHING & REBUILDING SOIL, AQUIFER, ECOSYSTEM, HUMAN COMMUNITY. This is so inspiring. It's not often you learn something valuable from a youtube video lol, but as a gardener that sh*t & p*ss section has me completely floored. Never have I realized the nutrient value of urine, & how substantial a source of fertilizer it can be for our gardens. Urine is a resource we're completely wasting! The possiblities are so exciting, & it just about makes me cry to see that they've transformed their human waste into 10 cm of beautiful loamy soil that the earth is parched for. This man can die knowing he GENUINELY made a difference on this earth. That community is a shining example of what's possible. Truly, the dream of the 90's is alive in Portland!!!!!!!!

[@rebekahyglesias7826]

well put, hear hear....

[@misscindy6474]

Very well said. Wasn't sure I would make it threw the whole video but I got more interested as he spoke. He is very knowledgeable and can explain this that anyone can understand. He's a great teacher, didn't skip a beat and captured all the little aspects with such detail. And man as I was watching couldn't believe he was answering the questions I actually had. This work is definitely inspiring and can say this is actually the first Video I've seen like this which is truly working. This takes a community of people working together and it's HARD work but can be done. The results are phenomenal and rewarding.

[@MARIALUIZA-vu3no]

l wish this dream could live forever and in all over the world. 👍❤

[@o0o0ll0o0o]

Cow urine is used as fertilizer for some farms so makes sense

[@paxhumana2015]

Portland, Oregon, the land of pedophiles and perverts...well, at least it is a part of it, alongside San Francisco, anyway.

[@dustygreene3335]

They DID it.....they actually did what many of us aspire to do......great job.

[@nicolasboullosa]

Cheers, Dusty, glad to see you around in prime time. I can see how this project resonates with some of the ideas you've shared with me lately. What I like about this particular community is the number of simple improvements that create impressive outcomes in action when combined together, but the best part is that they can be easily implemented by others.

[@kimberluna2226]

Apt availability?. What is lease amounts and terms?

[@crxess]

But did they? Look far deeper. Even successful Off-grid families must frequently make purchases from the outside world to fulfill needs.

[@lisaspencer3194]

I think as far as "making it", they produce enough to trade for other things.

[@cathleensmith4717]

Manhandle other people's poop!

[@kareenguilloux1991]

As someone who has to move a lot because of work and who stays inside a lot. I would love to live in a place like this. This brings such an amazing value in the purpose of what a community should be.

[@grandavepermaculture]

Could be.🌻

[@FainTMako]

@@grandavepermaculture You literally read the entire message and thought it was useful for you to reply with a "could be"? trying to almost correct the poster? Dude can you try adding something actually useful like the poster did?

[@narvarealestate1424]

in my care 11 apartment complexes, I can only imagine the impact of this type of eco-system can be created there. Thank you for sharing this. Absolutely love it.

[@obsoleteoptics]

Humans - despite their artistic pretensions, their sophistication, and their many accomplishments - owe their existence to a six-inch layer of topsoil and the fact that it rains.

[@francescamiddleton5884]

Quote of the century.

[@Sunnbuzz]

And the Sun ;)

[@tothelighthouse9843]

Don't forget the sun!

[@dcyphyr]

Actually, most humans alive today owe their existence to oil. When its gone, (and I do mean when) the majority of humans will starve to death, or die in conflict over food and resources. Without fossil fuels to create fertilizer, billions will die. We have overshot earths carrying capacity and that will be our doom.

[@dcyphyr]

@@drunkvegangal8089 hey thanks for the thought, and I appreciate your optimism., but, respectfully, its not about the food, at least not just the food. Veganism isn't going to save humanity from climate change. However, I do encourage you to work to ensure your own food security. Plant a garden, Drink Vegan Gal - you just might need it.

[@TheDavidN]

We really need more of these - sustainable co-op communities on a realistic scale. Not isolated in the middle of nowhere, but in cities with what's available.

[@newsviewstoday5689]

Well what are you waiting for David....get crackin mate! You can do it, we did. : )

[@mrsducky3428]

@@newsviewstoday5689 exactly! If you build it, they will come!

[@b.c.4902]

I wish every city had a bunch of these

[@tigercrossing4242]

@@browncatwithblurredbackgro2461🎼 as the song goes…… “it ain’t necessarily so”.🎼 (Depends on how the waste is processed!)

[@tangooscar633]

In most of Eastern Europe families have 'dachas', plots of land just outside of the city limits, or along train/highway routes where they grow most of their produce. Interesting to see that this is unique in North America.

[@tamcon72]

Right, or allotments in the UK.

[@mooneyes2833]

Most people in America do not grow or cook anything ...unfortunately

[@j2muw667]

Sad isn’t it. Maybe as grocery stores continue to have less, more people will opt in to this type of living?!

[@Rev-RN]

@@mooneyes2833 That's verifiably false but keep pushing your agenda.

[@venusfirenza2547]

@@mooneyes2833 Well, Oregon is different. Many do aspire to return and tend to the Gardens of Eden/Life. Growing food, caring about the living creatures and preparing foods is a spiritual movement. A very real existence for many types of intelligent people. Even to the point of natural medicines first (if possible) instead of using synthetic medicines which may contaminate the compost and pollute the ground and water. If we didn't have orchards, gardens, herbs and cook our own foods how would we survive? Going to trade hours of work to go buy food from sources we will never be able to visit and see their conditions not to mention the fuel costs to transport clear across the country? Close ourselves from the natural world and suffer from depression and stress? There may be many people worldwide that turn away from nature but also a great many have phobias against things in nature including the knowledge to learn the processes of nature.

[@potatozinc]

I always thought google's algorithms are now able to think a "step ahead" to predict a person's next search or product thoughts, etc. This KZbin suggestion is that personified. Almost all my dreams, wishes, plans for the last 10 years just 100% personified into one entire apartment complex. Love it. I hope more complexes become like this nation-wide, especially where I live. Realistically, very few of us will ever own anything land/house wise in the future, and this project makes a place you rent truly feel like you own.

[@tamcon72]

Sometimes the algorithm gives you what you need : )

[@eightybananas4515]

This man needs to write a book. His wealth of knowledge is staggering. Great video!

[@ogadlogadl490]

I was totally thinking that! He DOES need to write all his knowledge down.

[@estebancorral5151]

The book has already been written. The Permaculture Dessign Manual by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren.

[@eightybananas4515]

@@estebancorral5151 whoa! Thank you!

[@estebancorral5151]

@@eightybananas4515 I hope you read the part about the banana circle so would always have a hundred and never feel twenty bananas short.

[@samgunn12]

As a single person approaching retirement, this would be a perfect home in which to reside. Structure, community, and purpose. All retirement communities should be like this. I wonder if there’s a will to build something like this here in Scotland.

[@janet5360]

I too am approaching retirement and would love to find somewhere in the UK.. Scotland has always been my favourite option.. I think there are similar projects scattered around the UK and seem to remember one being in Scotland.

[@potatopotatoeOG]

I hope you find that community soon please please don't stop looking. I'm in my teens and I've wanted this sort of community for my local community. I hope & wish you the best on this journey

[@cupbowlspoonforkknif]

There is an entire generation coming up that are eager for change! We have energy and ambition but no land or money. A partnership between generations is the only way we can make our dreams come true. Start connecting with local groups to see how you might help each other. If a few older folks can afford a building or land, there's plenty of young people who would happily put in the labor.

[@calxtra5361]

Would love this in England too Sam :)

[@janinafisher101]

Check out the Findhorn Foundation community in Findhorn village and Forres. If there's a will in Scotland, you'll surely find the kind of people there!

[@liviadix1433]

The man not only looks fit . But I’m amazed at his knowledge on how to grow an organic farm. Not only nothing is wasted, soil is.preserved snd new soil is added.. I’m amazed. Great video.

[@megmoore335]

This man is an absolute treasure! Just wow! I'm amazed, and in love with what they've done! I sure hope this place lives on for generations 💕 And I hope we see this type of project all over the country and the world 🌎

[@HablemosDelHuerto]

Self sufficient community that sets a very nice example. This is supposed to be the way. Kudos

[@hannathompson7998]

So cool! I lived in portland for 20 years and can’t believe I never heard of this place before! Such a beautiful place full of forethought

[@cranberryeater7459]

Isn't it great. Disproportionate reward system. One guy does majority of the work, while the rest do mediocre, and some do none... yet all get equal share.

[@devin11007]

@@cranberryeater7459 _Is that all you got from this video? You need to watch it again and stop worrying about who's doing more work then whom. Some of us are born chiefs and some of us are born Indians. All men are not created equal. That was a lie._

[@mrwess1927]

If everyone becomes self-sufficient there will be no one left to work the min wage jobs no one wants to work.

[@williamwegmann874]

@@devin11007 I don't think you understand what they meant by "All men are created equal." Maybe read the next line, might give you a clearer picture.

[@briangarrow448]

I am impressed by the vision of this group. I love the idea of alternative waste removal systems. And I was a wastewater and water treatment plant professional for many years. I also love that they removed that parking lot for their garden. A very good idea brought to success by motivated folks. Well done Portland, you have made a feel good story that shows you are more than public unrest.

[@chezmoi42]

The public unrest was also Portlanders standing up for peoples' rights, to create a more equitable, healthy society in their city, as were all the other cities who were protesting the attacks on our liberty to speak out and to live, whatever our origins or beliefs.

[@melreslor2114]

The outhouse (urine collection shack) was built over 10 years ago. The material cost was $200. The builder offered to donate it to Kailash.

[@briangarrow448]

@@chezmoi42 You are correct. I made that comment about protests for the people who watch Fauxnews and have a right wing bias that is negative towards anyone who isn’t a white Evangelical Christian. We all have a right to protest against the wrongs perpetrated against the people of our country.

[@rainbowl4745]

@@briangarrow448 why put this kind of nonsense on this channel? The ability for people to feel so self righteous is seen repeatedly in all the atrocities throughout human history.

[@briangarrow448]

@@rainbowl4745 Get back to me when you and your family have been threatened with violence and arson by right wing extremists. You may live in a happy unicorn farting rainbow world, I have lived with neonazis and right wing extremists for decades. So my “give a damn” towards these folks has been dead since I got those anonymous phone calls at night.

[@danthomas6587]

What a lesson in permaculture. And incredibly relaxing to watch. Thanks Kirsten.

[@stevemiller7949]

Kristen, I bet these videos will be a great help in " mainstreaming" the concept of humanure. As I gardener, I can tell you I have tried a lot to obtain rotted manure from local stables and have had no luck so far . America is NOT composting waste like we should.

[@marisap09]

I could watch many more hours of footage of this. The founders need to write a book and help others create more communities off of this model. It combines so many wonderful things about co-op living with permaculture and urbanism etc. So many people are craving this way of life in community and it’s beautiful to see what they’ve created here in the city.

[@dawnbern2917]

I believe writers will find Ole and do the writing for them (and us) with the inspiration provided by this project. Ole is very busy doing what he loves so much!

[@kamivelasquez3119]

I agree! I definitely wish to be part of getting a community like this going in my area.

[@Evie170]

This is literally like a reversal of the song, "They paved paradise, put up a parking lot." Well done! :)

[@softwinemarket8605]

Winning comment.

[@sallysallysally]

Joni Mitchell - Big Yellow Taxi ☺️💗

[@MarlowWhere]

They depaved a slum, to fill up a pee bottle

[@realfoodman]

They made paradise, took off a parking lot.

[@cassandrabrown4834]

I almost never watch an hour long video like this all the way through but this man’s excitement and the scope of what they’ve been able to do is truly inspiring!

[@jacquelinelion9879]

For me, this is one of the most interesting channels on You Tube and helps me keep up to date on future (and present) lifestyles. I am an old woman now, but this channel makes me so excited to be reborn and hopefully in a stronger position for tiny homes or collective eco living etc. It is one of the few inspiring channels that keeps me optimistic. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@dianethompson2458]

Words from my own heart as well. The world is changing for the better. We will not see it in this lifetime and I can not wait to come back and enjoy a clean harmonious Mother Earth. Blessed Be from Canada.

[@Nemesis_T_Type]

America has so much land that is being neglected. Just imagine abandoned mall parking lots turned into a communal garden. Heck you can even house people inside the malls because it has all the necessary facilities in it. It would easily solve homeless and unemployment problems.

[@marylafrance9547]

gosh no kidding. There's so many dead malls in my community.

[@amexicanandaredneckfathert365]

That is a great observation.

[@chandadarnell6932]

i totally agree, and thought about the same thing! there is so much more that needs to be done about homelessness! i would like to help start a community like this! but need to find like minded people to work with,

[@mrs.garcia6978]

Most homeless are w/o a home bc they want to be on the street. There is 0 unemployment problems in America, just a too busy laying in the govt hammock to work problems mostly.

[@Serenityroseevents]

@@chandadarnell6932 I feel the exact same way. I wonder how many like minded people we could get together. 🤔 just scared the government would try to stop us.

[@EmmaAppleBerry]

This guy is awesome! People like him need to run countries and be our leaders.

[@potatozinc]

I love the fact they create topsoil again, creating aquafers again. Just so much of this is beneficial to an urban place that would have never seen that.

[@azureflametarot]

The cattails in your found pond also have herbal medicinal uses. Great find! Edit: Get a good lawyer in advance to help you protect this place, keep in continual contact with that lawyer. Keeping your own rainwater away from the city’s sewage system and creating a communal food space like this runs the risk of getting attention from certain people who work from the city zoning and code offices, or who work for the state, or even higher up in government. Don’t fear, just be prepared in the event that potentially comes up. Praying this project remains successful and protected 🙏

[@CelticLady01]

This is sooo awesome. Can you imagine how things would be if we could do this everywhere? Just think of all of the abandoned hotels and apartments you could convert and turn into low cost housing for the homeless and low income

[@aquaganda]

And abandoned malls and department stores, with all that parking lot space surrounding it.

[@dawngrogan1232]

Clearly, he's extremely PASSIONATE about this and it's quite CONTAGIOUS! Makes me feel like starting my own garden.

[@c0ttage]

how's your garden coming?

[@thesp1r1twalk3r]

He's absolutely a dream weaver

[@batmscot6149]

That's the idea you're already on the journey in your head now put that into practice, you do not need a lot of land even if you live in a small apartment you can still grow things .Good luck .

[@cynthiacarr2093]

Go for it! This is my 2nd year backyard vegetable and flower gardening I love it! Mainly containers and grow bags, sitting on pallets with trellises and a section of "No Dig Garden," area! It gets bigger each year lol my 4 yr old GreatGranddaughter is my assistant when she comes to visit😁 she especially loves the 💐! I'm learning from the great KZbin University Teachers😁❤❤ A Forever Student! Good Blessings you'll Love it!

[@lisakukla459]

I can't stop coming back to rewatch this. It's like a dream come true. I wish this would catch on everywhere. Could completely transform society.

[@vickio9074]

Love his enthusiasm and easy to understand explanations so much information uncovered in an hour. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@dragonqueen4152]

Love this, we need more community building, housing and sustainability for each block or street in the United States. We have to reimagine and build our neighborhoods, schools, health clinics, work and infrastructure all on a foundation of taking care of people.

[@smallfootprint2961]

We are called Communists if we work together to make something good happen, like this. Too much power is given to politicians, and not enough power taken by politicians to speak up against the powers that keep people from acting.

[@FlatEarthLogic]

This works (for a while) with very like-minded individuals ONLY. People are very complicated and it's a little scary when people point to ANYTHING as some sort of Utopia and answer to our problems. I think we ALL appreciate practical and sustainable solutions to problems. It just gets really scary when I hear some people genuinely think THEY would be HAPPIER if society was torn back down to the basics. We all do or once lived in a COMMUNIST system. It's called our family. Mileage varies on that too- doesn't it?

[@darlenebradley6756]

@@FlatEarthLogic Excellent response! I, too, can see the value in a project such as this -- I have been developing a miniature 'farm' in my backyard, but we must not lose sight of human nature and people's preferences. Projects like this are a success because the participants have chosen it and are invested in it, not forced into it.

[@karenscoville6307]

Could you imagine if we had community gardens at every school!?! If used for food for the students we could possibly cut out kids being hungry at school, healthier meals, younger generations learning better living techniques, etc., etc. The possibilities are endless!

[@tempgirl00711]

I agree, but other roadblocks are local city government. I've seen live stories on KZbin, where jealous I'm assuming they were jealous, cause the garden was beautiful. And organized. They called city officials, and reported them for growing food. And they inspected and gave them fines, and demand letter to tear it all down! It's insane!!! Told them to put the grass back!!!and I've seen places that don't let u grow, even in pots! And even where I live my condo association, has a huge empty grass field, huge and no community garden. They had one years ago but stopped it. Anyway, I agree with like minded people, it can work, but also other obstacles with city ordinances etc. Outdated thinking..

[@JordanAK907]

Incredible! This is the way I've been craving to live, even before I was old enough to understand why. I hope that eventually I can find or help build a community like this 💚 Thank you!

[@keilana6]

Me too. I hope your dream materializes one day.

[@debbiekrallman7482]

This is how we used to live. 3 generations on the farm. I came from a family who always had a garden, chickens, and pigs. Then my dad was injured and we sold the farm and moved to cali. Mom still had a garden but nothing like midwest gardens. I credit my lack of disease to my mom and her gardening and canning our veggies and fruits. Monsanto couldn't touch our home grown food.

[@tinamoyer7411]

OK so how much does it cost to live here or how much is it to buy a space here

[@michellenorthington5872]

This actually is a great idea for all the homeless people. Building self-sufficient communities like this for the homeless with the free solar panels you always see advertised for the state of Oregon is absolutely IDEAL!!!! They can grow, share and care together..... "FOOD FOR THOUGHT!!!"

[@badnomad357]

Yes but good for only a very very small portion of the homeless. The largest percentage is drug addicted or alcoholic and completely unwilling to work. Perhaps it could work for a few more if the community was locked down and away from town where they checked for drugs.

[@gracec3418]

@@badnomad357 With respect, it could be that your perception that the largest percentage of the homeless are drugs / alcohol addicted, or unwilling to work, may be a bit off-truth. Very many people were made homeless during the 'pandemic' period : many of them single parent families. I loved that there was sufficient trust in the community, that a young girl had been allowed out to the gardens on her own to seek out the hammocks. You hardly ever see kids out on their own where I live. And I live in a good, safe neighbourhood. Kids have so much less freedom these days than we had in our youth and teens. But I digress. My point is, that very many perfectly sound, able but vulnerable families were made homeless during that pandemic. I am sure the Errsons wish they had many more units to offer to people. Though sadly, the units themselves are far from cheap. No doubt due to the extortionate amount the City charged them for that blasted parking lot. But da h, my response - briefly stated, is there is probably an absolutely huge number of homeless families and individuals, who would love to be part of a community like this one. What's not to love? Gardens, gardening, organic food on your doorstep? Decent folks around you on all sides? Doesn't get a whole lot better, no matter who you are. God Bless us all. These are bad times.

[@sandradoan2964]

I agree that this could be a solution for functional homeless, but here in Jacksonville, there are many obviously mentally ill. An alternative program would need to be established to provide a structure that meets their needs.

[@northgeorgiamom8956]

Having been full time with a homeless ministry in a large US city for years, I wish I could agree. Sadly, the majority have issues that would not make this possible. I do understand that we have “new homeless” due to economic reasons, but the majority statement still holds true. 😔

[@GrayWithMe]

Where I am in northern NV there are a lot of people who are homeless that are mentally ill and/or have substance use disorders - this would require a lot of organization and effort. From what I understand Portland is in an even worse situation with drugs and homelessness.

[@theloniuspoon]

ten years later this is still one of my favourite most calming channels to watch, people caring about the environment, old dudes with fulfilled lives

[@tinawindham6958]

And a plethora of information

[@elisahamilton73]

When my son was potty training he'd often run out to the garden and pee on the grass. After a while you could see lush thick grass in patches. More people should do what this man has created, so good for people both socially and for mental health he's created a lovely community.

[@ssmith5127]

I have a fenced back patio with potted roses, gardenias, a small cherry tree and some tea bushes. Everything does great but I couldn't get blooms on my gardenia until I convinced my partner to pee on it a few times at night each month. Now it blooms beautifully. I call it his magic fertilizer. Lol

[@yogachick1955]

I really could not love this more. I'd love to live in a community like this with all my favorite people

[@stevemiller7949]

These stories that involve multiple households are definitely my favorites! Please keep doing more of them.

[@RunAMuckGirl2]

I live in Portland. This is why people love it here. So many people like this man and his wife do things like this on a small scale in single family homes. It's a real shame what is happening to the city due to poor management at the top right now. Great vlog! Thank you.

[@duvine3882]

We live in the same city & this is gentrification by closing a street, next gated to finally HOA & parking lots again as the circle of greed life!.

[@RunAMuckGirl2]

@@duvine3882 Yup, you're right it is totally gentrification, but that's not always a bad thing.

[@duvine3882]

@@RunAMuckGirl2 I wish, so our local economy would be the best; the art of divide & conquer taken out of the book, The Art of War.

[@JustMe-gs9xi]

What happens if you take medication. It's gonna

[@j.reneewhite915]

I have lived near Portland all my life and it used to be fun to go into town to experience some of what a city has to offer. Now it saddens my heart to drive through with all the homeless goings on and the unrest that we all witnessed was brought in from other locations. Most Portlanders are very kind people.

[@Healianthus_tellurian]

Wow! I used to live about 9 blocks away from this beautiful garden. I was always so curious about this project and how it came to be. Very inspiring. So relieved that Portland still has a strong community behind the permaculture movement.

[@josephhuth3714]

Incredibly inspiring, motivating, and educational. As always, Kirsten's brilliant film-making enhances these three qualities, allowing us to view this place in all it's complexity and turning her film into a work of art.

[@UrbanomicInteriors]

With 400 people on a waiting list - I wonder - why is no one else taking any initiative to replicate this model elsewhere? I would love if this community offered a teaching and mentor ship program where students could live there for a period to learn how such a co-op is run, and could then go off and start one elsewhere.

[@catnip1487]

I get that lovely fuzzy warm feeling inside when watching this. The wisdom and the passion is just amazing.

[@Graces421]

Phenomenal!! This is what dreams are made of. Not this generic brand of happiness we’ve become accustomed to. Growing your own food, making friends and helping others out of Love. We’ve got it all twisted… material stuff does not equals happiness.

[@jaegrant6441]

Except for the 1%, and the 19% below then who think they can be part of the 1%, but can't and never will but are useful so the next 60% think they could be part of the 19%,

[@DustyC75080]

Preach, sister! Kirsten, ever thought of allowing a list for ppl who want to find, create something similar to this (regional based, etc.)? I’ve noticed ppl expressing such. Tks! :)

[@nedhill1242]

This is a very minimal thing they are doing. If you want to see the real way to do it the real way to be sustainable go watch some of the fantastic homesteading channels on KZbin. But be prepared to be offended there are guns and animals get killed in these people are mostly Christian and conservative the way America was founded in the way America mostly still is if not for the brainwashing and propaganda by the media.

[@sandradoan2964]

Kirsten: You are providing a wonderful education for those of us learning about variations of "natural living." All age groups benefit, but it is particularly helpful to seniors who find themselves alone, widowed, with children grown and gone. I am tempted to get on the waiting list in Portland! Thank you for your wonderful videos.

[@s4ta440]

Seriously, this has been the most inspiring video I’ve ever seen. I’ve rewatched it more times than I can count. So many ideas I’d never heard of and pushed me to grow and discover. Thank you so much for talking about all of this!!

[@ihaddox1199]

he is so enthusiastic showing everything off, it's inspiring, I want to create something I am that proud of.

[@mbtrautwein8624]

He is! and he'd been at it for well over ten years -- amazing

[@leahsfieldnotes]

Wow this is officially my favourite video on this channel 🤩

[@minahlee6381]

aaa you're here! whenever i watch vids like this i kinda expect you to be in the comments haha. i love your channel!

[@nicolederry-harry8839]

Same 😁

[@ruanddu]

I agree! So wonderfully done! Love how much time was taken to go in depth. This gentlemen’s energy and vision is outstanding. So inspiring.

[@nataliemichelle2848]

Mine too!!!

[@anasazirose]

I'd say it's my 2nd favorite. The greenhouse in the snow is still my #1.

[@lam6572]

As Agritopia consultants, Ole and Maitri Ersson could further enjoy the satisfaction of seeing their lifestyle model take root across the US.

[@Charliesmomiji]

This is the kind of community I'd like to live in ❤

[@angelagentry562]

This is one of the most amazing vlogs you have done. We need these all over the country. The world really, what an amazing human being with an incredible vision. The amount of money he had to put down for the bank to accept this is astounding. I would love to live in a place like this. Food and water sustainability is going to be a great necessity in the future. Our young people are going to have to pick up the gauntlet for more places like this. Loved this!

[@Opa773]

We need these all over the world. This is what i heard about a few decades ago . Community living , and its not about making money . Beautiful concept .

[@kimlittleton4943]

Agreed. Kirsten finds the most amazing stories.....but this one is TOP NOTCH !!!

[@AgFairnessAlliance]

There's a new federal Office of Urban Agriculture. You can call your reps and tell them you want farm subsidies going to projects like this.

[@smallfootprint2961]

@@Opa773 .... You heard about it a few decades ago, and I heard about it, but where did it all go. Big oil, Big pharma.... Lobbyists with money and power, and complacency on our part... These people really followed through, but there's not many that will.

[@bradkelley8732]

As a person who lives here, I will attest that Ole is an amazing person, with great vision, and fun to be around. And there are lots of other amazing people, with their own amazing knowledge bases. If there is anything I want to do or try, I put it out on our gmail list to the group and usually within a few minutes, I'll have my answer, and a willingness to help. Those apples you saw in the buckets? I might be wrong, but I'm pretty sure that those very apples--not that type of apple but those particular apples-- became cider and hard cider that we enjoyed at an (outdoor, masked, distanced) community vegan potluck. I'm pretty sure that the idea to turn our surplus of apples into cider came right about the time, maybe a little after, this was filmed. And I will tell you, our first batch was spectacular!

[@MickyELee]

Very inspiring especially for elderly who really would have increasing difficulties in the iconic cottage in the woods as they age.

[@tlockerk]

I've always wondered this as I saw intentional communities forming that require a lot of physical strength and activity...what happens when hips go, limits on sight, hearing, smell, etc. THIS guy reminds me of my Gram, but not everyone has the luck, genes, and life that allow for aging this actively. I'm guessing raised beds and arbor arch could be put in as an ADA area..might require some stable wheelchair base, cement? Our local nursing home encourages residents to garden in pots, they usually put out a decent crop, albeit with some supervision and assistance at times.

[@Bobcatspiritdude]

I can't say I'm not a little bit jealous ! This is what I really want to do in life . You guys are all Awesome . Thank you Kirsten for sharing thing beautiful transformation back to God's organic living , in the the city !! Namaste

[@harrykersey3181]

I had vision of this way back in the 70s and pretty much lived this out my whole adult life as a youngster my Mother and I grew a lot of our fruits and veggies organically in east central coastal Florida everyone thought us a couple short for using compost to feed our garden.This should be common place by now , growing collectively and making sound common sense decisions of how to manage your green spaces.

[@Ferelmakina]

A community is how we all should live

[@tlockerk]

Ah, but not everyone wants to. Some of us introverts prefer our own gardens, not better or worse, just different..

[@tonileigh8660]

It's great for people who WANT to live like that. Many people don't. Including me. I avoid people as much as possible.

[@tonileigh8660]

Why? It's fine for people who like it, but not everyone does. Many people prefer a solitary lifestyle, including me.

[@SW-ii5gg]

@@tonileigh8660 they are coming to find you and make you live with them.

[@mrs.garcia6978]

No thx

[@Opa773]

“It’s not our mission to make money” wwwwwwooooooowwwww! That is a new concept . I love it.

[@Factory051]

Not necessarily a new concept. Housing Co-ops?

[@Opa773]

@@Factory051 Aren’t the cities get subsidies by the government for those kind of developments ?

[@Factory051]

@@Opa773 Can't speak for the US, but in the UK and most of the rest of the world coops self finance. They also rarely receive the same sort of support as charitable organisations.

[@goatboy3562]

Fools

[@elizabethb3436]

This is how it should be greed is the ultimate killer of life.

[@scarlettfrancesca]

This is one of the most amazing, incredible and inspirational transformations I've ever seen! I never knew this unique community was in the Portland area. This is phenomenal and an absolute treasure. If there's 300 people waiting, I can imagine that other communities could be created and would thrive with that kind of interest! Keep up the great work! 💥💞🌟💫

[@RustyBobbins]

Window quilt, genius! And what a great way to keep the art of quilting alive!

[@93marymat]

I’ve just learned about solarpunk and this is this vision turned into reality! I would love to live there.

[@alexnoman1498]

Oh, great! It's a whole genre, I love it. The Permaculture Design Manual by Mollison lays out an incredible vision for a low energy future and its structures and inhabitants. Highly recommend the whole book.

[@93marymat]

@@alexnoman1498 thank you! I’m checking it right now.

[@susanneward7029]

$250 seems to be the average price for this seemingly out-of-print book. Yikes!

[@benedict667]

this is the future we want, great people, great results.

[@livingwithtri]

I hope they develop the tiny house community! This man is full of knowledge!!!

[@suzfagan4834]

Wow! Got to be one of your GOAT videos. This type of community living should be replicated everywhere.

[@kristimcgowandarkoscellard3126]

This is how people are supposed to live. People think “high tech” means computers and laser beams, to the contrary this is high tech living with very little wasted! At some point we lost the knowledge of how to live with nature (maybe it was taken from us) and started conquering it instead. This is why you hear ridiculous stories like the royalties living in palaces urinating and defecting in the corners! The original architects of such amazing structures surly would have taken into account people have to go to the bathroom! This place is amazing and I thank you for sharing it 🙏🏻 Cheers

[@gerry343]

What an inspiring organisation! The contrast with that dull group of buildings right next door is immense. Using the garden for the production of fresh fruit and vegetables makes so much more sense than leaving it to lawns, with their noisy, polluting mowers.

[@kenyonbissett3512]

He’s right the building across does look like a barracks. Very stark.

[@darlenebradley6756]

@@kenyonbissett3512 What he misses is that not everyone shares his vision of how things 'should' be. Some people like the minimalist look. Some people haven't the time, energy, and money to do what this guy has done. We need a little less of this sort of virtue signaling. I am an avid gardener and have been developing my suburban yard into a miniature 'farm' for the last ten years. But I don't look at my neighbors yards full of beautiful flowers, shrubs, and lawns and say, "What a pitiful waste". We are all pursuing our individual lives and getting along quite happily.

[@kenyonbissett3512]

@@darlenebradley6756 I don’t have a problem with gardens of flowers or vegetable or a combination of. I am a fan of trees and shrubs. I believe that in the majority of cases 1/2-1 acre of grass is wrong. To much energy, fertilizers and water are used to maintain yards for a non productive space. Even in areas of extreme drought people fight to use drinkable water for lawns.

[@adrilazzaro]

@@darlenebradley6756 lawns of sterilized manicured grass and monoculture, though common and accepted. Are indeed a waste of land and resources, purely for aesthetic display

[@darlenebradley6756]

@@adrilazzaro Beauty matters, and people who maintain lawns (and not all are sterilized grass...mine has big patches of clover, but I digress. I see nothing wrong with aesthetic display. Maybe if vegetable crowd paid a little more attention to the aesthetics of their little patches of squash and beans, others wouldn't have as negative an attitude toward their gardens as some of the vegetable crowd has of those that prefer a neater, less straggly look, too often a feature of most vegetable gardens.

[@mixthepasta]

It's so nice to see someone so knowledgable of a variety of different things. He's a well educated man that has built his sanctuary that actually works and contributes positively to the community and beyond. Amazing and super inspiring!

[@claudiabottom4086]

man these old guys have got it together and they are ready for everything. that is good to see, i wish we had more wise ones like this.

[@Autism_Forever]

It seems that they are mostly elderly folks who live there, and this is exactly my kind of a retirement community! :) I don't like to touch pee and poop, but what they were able to achieve there in a relatively short time is worth of a huge respect ♥

[@leebeedav]

Not so! A wide range of ages here.

[@subtropicalpermaculture]

When you see what it does for your plants you start to get over that a bit. It becomes money ..fertilizer costs money ..knowing the nitrogen in my pee makes my bananas grow is a very connected feeling too lol way better than knowing I'm polluting fresh water with it which seems gross to me now

[@jekalambert9412]

There have been recent studies about what happens when the person growing plants from seed places the seeds in their mouth. Apparently plant intelligence uses information from the saliva to produce appropriate nutrients to balance the grower's nutritional needs. I'm assuming that urine and feces would have the same effect.

[@DustyC75080]

@Jeka Lambert - wow, really? That’s fascinating, Will have to look more into that, thanks for the rabbit hole!

[@informativem5248]

Incredible what they've done, more people should be living like this

[@timbushell8640]

Ecotopia 0.5... ... just needs to buyout the 'hood to expand.

[@larsstougaard7097]

Yes amazing if only more people would do like them, but it takes money, work and the right mindset of change, creating and maintaining the garden.

[@Thinking.Of.Some.Handle]

@@larsstougaard7097 right mindset yes!! Unfortunately so many just want modern 'stuff' and the newest electronics, or to be left alone.

[@larsstougaard7097]

@@Thinking.Of.Some.Handle build something up over years together with others really takes commitment and the art of compromise from all parties. In today's world most want fast and me first. It would be super interesting to get an insight into their proces ( good and bad) and dynamic over the last 14 years. They must have learned a lot.

[@Trish.H487]

Beautiful! Sharing and community is so beautiful to see. What a beautiful man. There is no greed in his vision for not raising the rent. Love and blessings to them. Green is life.

[@rebeccahenry6376]

My mind has been blown by the sophisicated simplicity of this genius!

[@alexnoman1498]

Yes, more Permaculture! Great episode!

[@the_str4ng3r]

Another great watch, Kirsten. They are doing awesome things in that community

[@oneshakyvideo943]

Inspiring. Ole is eloquent and seems like a highly educated man. Thanks for sharing.

[@laurengayle6543]

WOW!!!!! What a GREAT idea!!!!!!! THIS is a WONDERFUL model for so many run-down and abandoned properties!!!! It's GREAT for the environment and for humanity. This is a great public service. Thanks for all your hard work! GOD bless you 👍💕👍💕👍💕👍💕👍💕👍💜👌👌

[@barbararunge5378]

Love the fact that Humanure methods are being utilized!! Was introduced to this concept a number of years ago in Peace Corps but haven't known of a communal group who had implemented it. I'm in my 70's and I still wish to live in community with other like-minded people.

[@TH-eb5ro]

They exist, keep looking.

[@LoveMusic-pd5iz]

I am also in my 70's with the same desire. Where do you live? Have you found any communities near you?

[@barbararunge5378]

@@LoveMusic-pd5iz I'm in NE Ohio. No, haven't found anywhere close by.

[@carolynrae1845]

I'm also in my seventies now & have found a way to create a new community as there are none here. I'm looking for like minded souls of all ages to join me. I live in the South Island of New Zealand. This will be a place to educate & heal lives as well, providing services for the wider community that are in need. Our world is changing rapidly now & the need is growing so we must grow too. We are the ones with the wisdom & knowledge that must be passed on.

[@tradutorajuliana]

me too

[@dnicolle]

When I see people doing this stuff I know we still have a chance to save this world for our kids and grandkids. Nothing digital, all mechanical.

[@eviesmail5447]

Its late for this world but if we receive Christ as our Savior and cultivate our hearts with Him Well be ready to enter the new Heavens and the new earth eternally

[@jenniferbee1500]

@@eviesmail5447 He might ask you why you ruined a perfectly good Eden for everyone else and then what will you say?

[@Farida-A.R.]

Best renovation of the building and the area around. Amazingly informative video. Thanks

[@jkfenley7]

WOWZER SAYS IT ALL! The concepts, practical examples and potential benefits to people who live here, the surrounding area and to the collective conscious are immense. Let's spread the word! Showing the WAY. Gratitude for your efforts on all levels.

[@pattin4015]

He brought to fruition what so many can only dream of. What a hardworking man (he walks so fast!) with so much knowledge! If only more urban homes/complexes throughout the country can adopt this way of living. The prototype is here!

[@larsstougaard7097]

Agree a great man, I hope he inspire the local area and people around.

[@carlosreid51]

Very much this is recycling and restoring an old apartment complex to make it green and cheap and no politics but community

[@elizabethb3436]

Now he just needs a younger generation to take over his vision and keep it going.

[@theaofthemountains5922]

I am amazed, excited, challenged, inspired, motivated, etc. I've been part of a community garden for the last 5 years. Our situation has limits set upon us by federal government by-laws, and the members have their own opinions, so yes it's hard to get anything done. But as an individual with a 8 x 4 plot. I have learned so much about pests, weather, organics, and how to tend to the flowers and vegetables, how to can/pickle, and just find a moment of calm and joy in my lil garden. This is an amazing video. Thank you Kirsten, however you found out about this place, thanks for filming and showing Us out here in You tube land, that if there is a will, there is a way. Amazing !

[@harrykersey3181]

Funny thing you said that . WILL / WAY is the name of my urban garden project that I am working on now in N.Eastern Georgia USA.

[@justlove3140]

Great work! This should be the direction in every city. Less parking lots, more gardens.

[@KhesaPinkard]

I love this!!! I sometimes imagine that something like this was done in Chicago as well. I love that you did this! I think a lot of these cities could be made much more livable and sustainable if more things like this were done. Especially in the poor and underserved minority communities.

[@Aidenjh11]

So utterly inspiring. This guy should be studied by design and planning professionals. Thank you, Kirsten - one of your best yet.

[@desertduck10]

Reminds me of back in the 60's and 70's when Portland had community gardens in many ( especially North West) neighborhoods in Portland and the Sellwood District. Great idea!

[@direstraights]

Paved Paradise and put up a parking lot. - Corporations and Mega Housing

[@maryhodgson8604]

This man is a GENIUS ,we need more people like him. I am amazed.

[@sarahforsythe5955]

a beautiful future looks like this for humanity -thank you :)what a great place and man:transforming the rest of the neighborhood too

[@firatsoylu5132]

The most inspiring communal living project I've ever seen. So many good ideas in action.

[@nicolasboullosa]

We've seen some projects over the years too. The garden is as good as it looks on camera. Mind the video was shot in summer, but it still looked gorgeous and was in full action. When some crops and/or fruits are dormant, others are ripe. It's also true that food forests blossom in stable, mild weather. The Pacific Northwest is ideal for such implementations.

[@firatsoylu5132]

@Nicolás Boullosa The food forest is definitely impressive. The thing that I found most impressive is how they were able to implement many of the practices people implement individually/at a small scale at a larger scale (whole apartment complex), in a city environment. This shows that sustainable living doesn't need to be a niche thing and it can be implemented even in apartment complexes, in city environments. I am surprised that they can get away with the human manure and the urine systems (which are fantastic ideas), though that's probably because Oregon is more progressive than most of the other states. That would have been inconceivable where I live (Deep South). BTW, I've watched all of your previous videos and I so much appreciate the work you do. Thank you!

[@barkingdog365]

I'm in envy overdrive but I just read there's a 300 wait list. It's wonderful. Congratulations.

[@voidisyinyangvoidisyinyang885]

this dude has done most of the work I think.

[@nancyfahey7518]

He wouldn't have it any other way.

[@DeanTheDoctor]

@@nancyfahey7518 😌🌎🌄

[@melreslor2114]

@@voidisyinyangvoidisyinyang885 Maitri and Ole have done much of the work but with resident gardeners and volunteers and a full-time gardener their workload is becoming a smaller percentage of the overall work.

[@voidisyinyangvoidisyinyang885]

@@melreslor2114 thanks for the clarification. I didn't understand the concrete pad set up with the beveled drain in the center. Where does that drain go to if the run off is not to contaminate the ground water? My understanding of code for my state is that a low density population area requires three feet of separation between any septage and the ground. thanks

[@itsalwaysnow4098]

WOW! I have watched a few preper's videos where they say "you have to, get armed, and get out of town" where there are no people". I have done the opposite. I don't have land to grow food on, so I have done the alternativee. Your solution is the best one. When the **** hits the fan, like what happened to Baltimore some years back, there will, trajically, be lots of abandonned properties available. Thank you for sharing.

[@LaVictoria6751]

This video is very impressive. Hard work that pays for the nature's bounty. Mother nature provides to us when there's care and LOVE.

[@gordonauchincloss9161]

How many calories did you burn trying to keep up with him? He’s got wheels! Cool video, as usual. Thanks

[@kimlittleton4943]

Totally agree......very passionate man. Wish we could spread his passion and knowledge. Contagious for sure.

[@kimfindlay3500]

OMG, I wish I had half of that man's energy. He doesn't walk, he jogs. I guess it takes someone like that to get this off the ground. Well done, such a passion project that brings joy & security to many

[@potatopotatoeOG]

😆so true. I was thinking about how much heaving I'd be doing following him

[@TheKentuckylady717]

He's like a Saint here on earth helping watch over God's people.....you can tell he values his work even down to making use of his own urine.....how many people do you know who does that ? He's the first one I know about ? !!!

[@SW-ii5gg]

@@TheKentuckylady717 some that like to make fertilizer or nitrates for fireworking instead of having to buy it.

[@xtinamarie9078]

Wow! This is one of the top masterclasses in sustainable living & systematic ecological succession by a genius that I’ve seen. Bravo to the wife & farmers too! Gives me hope. 🙏❤️👏

[@bluerayfrequency7335]

Brilliantly simple. Eloquently sustainable. Why isn't this happening everywhere? GREED.

[@YukiTogawa]

Bravo. Every leader, banker, investor, city planner, architect, educator, media publisher, prison, detox house, half house should go there for a week and experience it.

[@simmoneb4524]

I'm so glad this clip appeared in my feed this afternoon. An hour of blissful inspiration. Thank you to everyone involved in making this film.