Testimonials for Whatcom Permaculture

“Workshop was beyond my wildest expectations! Loved it!” Mary, L.


“Attending the 2022 PDC or “permaculture camp” was the highlight of my year. From seed saving to soil health to tool care to design projects- the skills learned are invaluable to the times we are in. Plus you make incredible connections and friendships.” ~ E. Burke

My experience with the PDC was life changing! The course equips participants with tons of practical takeaways and skills for working with systems and building a resilient landscape, but the real value for me was the connections I made to a lovely and wholesome community throughout Whatcom county. This course was incredibly enriching, and did an excellent job of engaging all the interconnected topics, from nerdy soil life sessions, seed saving and building a shower out of hot compost to social emotional learning, sharing meals and conversations about how we can restore our relationship with the land. Really couldn’t recommend it enough, and the cook was amazing. ~ S. Kamkoff


“The 2022 Whatcom PDC was a transformative experience for me. The course provided an in-depth understanding of permaculture principles and their practical application, tailored to our local environment. Learning at both Inspiration Farm and Queen Mountain Homestead offered a unique, hands-on experience that was both educational and inspiring. The knowledge and connections I gained have been invaluable in my journey towards pursuing a sustainable career. This course, with these wonderful instructors, is a must for anyone passionate about permaculture and ecological stewardship.” ~Brent B. of Bellingham Foodscapes

“I appreciate getting to know you, appreciate you sharing your wealth of permaculture & scything knowledge and look forward to future connections.” ~Gary B.

“I just wanted to say thanks again for a really great workshop at your farm. The format worked very well, loved all the hands on. Please extend thanks to all the instructors they did a great job.” ~Mat P.

“Thanks for all your effort in putting the Permaculture Design Certification course together.  It was an exceptional learning experience.  I marvel at how much you guys know and how enthusiastically the material was presented.   Your guest presenters were outstanding and gave the course a welcomed perspective. I believe the hands-on experience such as making a thermophilic compost pile, constructing a cob rocket stove, planting a food forest, harvesting rye grain and kale seed, were invaluable to the course’s effectiveness.   Brian’s home-made machines, ( e.g.  the bucket grain thresher, the solar dehydrator, etc.) are a continuing challenge to all of us to be creative.    Overall, the presentation reflected your deep respect for natural processes and dedication to making a positive contribution to our world.   I’d recommend the course to anyone interested in permaculture or just wanting to learn about lifestyle possibilities available to us all.”  ~Kevin

“I feel this class has met my expectations and can see it exceeding them as it continues. I really look forward to the upcoming modules and guest instructors.” ~Steve W.


“The best class I have ever taken by far.” -Cody J.


“Really superb! From my two years of reading about Permaculture I thought doing an in person PDC would be life-changing. You guys met and exceeded my expectations. This experience will stay with me forever!” ~Brian D.

“I spent 6 blessed-fantastic-very full days at Inspiration Farm exploring and learning about permaculture… studying: energy systems, design principles, nature’s patterns, ecosystems, climates, nitrogen & carbon cycles, biodynamics, the wild world of mushrooms, topography, base map creation, forest ecology, guilds, earthworks, soil building, water/rain & grey water systems, composting systems, sacred geometry and sooooo much more with a great bunch of fun, playful, wise & passionate human-beings. Tons of gratitude and thanks to Brian Kerkvliet, Dave Boehnlein, Paul Kearsley, Larry Dobson, all at Inspiration Farm and the many pioneers that keep this fire burning!” ~Stephanie

“Attended permaculture workshop and it was the perfect mixture of lecture and hands on experience. Beautiful and productive landscaping. I learned a lot!” ~Marnie W.


“Permaculture, a design system that reconciles human communities with the ecological imperatives of a living planet.” ~Ben H.


“I think Brian is a permaculture genius. He has taught me so much. This is an incredible place and it keeps getting better all the time.”

~Larry D.

“I Can’t recommend Brian enough. A real wizard when it comes to intelligent, sustainable design and he is the gold standard for water management!” ~Terri K.