Building an Off-Grid Desert Oasis: The Power of Berms and Swales

🌵Berms and swales are ancient techniques that catch flowing water and create sustainable landscapes.

💧Berms and swales help conserve water in arid environments by storing it in the soil and allowing trees and grasses to flourish.

🌳Planting native trees along berms provides multiple benefits, including wind and fire breaks, privacy screens, and food forests.

🌍Berms and swales contribute to environmental sustainability by sequestering carbon and reducing greenhouse gases.

🌧️Berms and swales are designed to handle heavy rain events and divert water to safe areas on the property.

What is the purpose of berms and swales?

—Berms and swales are designed to capture and store rainwater, creating a sustainable oasis in arid environments.

How do berms and swales benefit the environment?

—Berms and swales contribute to environmental sustainability by sequestering carbon, reducing greenhouse gases, and increasing biodiversity.

What type of trees should be planted along berms?

—It is best to plant native trees that are well-suited to the local environment and can thrive in arid conditions.

Do berms and swales require a lot of maintenance?

—Once berms and swales are properly established, they require minimal maintenance. The trees and grasses planted along the berms help maintain the structure and provide additional benefits.

Can berms and swales prevent flooding?

—Berms and swales are designed to handle heavy rain events and divert water to safe areas, reducing the risk of flooding.

00:00Meet Ashley and Jonathan, who are building an off-grid desert oasis using permaculture-inspired designs.

01:55Learn why berms and swales are essential in capturing rainwater in arid environments.

06:32Discover the benefits of planting native trees along berms, from wind and fire breaks to privacy screens and food forests.

10:55Understand the environmental benefits of berms and swales, such as sequestering carbon and reducing greenhouse gases.

13:35Follow Ashley and Jonathan as they mark and plan the construction of their main berm and swale.