Welcome to the Occidental Arts & Ecology Center, a unique and transformative hub for ecological and social change. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Sonoma County, California, this 80-acre site has been a beacon for sustainability and community innovation since its founding in 1994. But the roots of this vibrant community stretch back even further, to the 1970s, when the land was home to the Farallones Institute Rural Center. This center was a pioneering force in the sustainable living movement, offering workshops on passive solar design and organic farming long before these concepts entered mainstream consciousness.
In 1994, the land was reborn as the Occidental Arts & Ecology Center, thanks to the efforts of Brock Dolman and the six other founding members of the Sowing Circle LLC. Their vision was to create a space that would not only educate but also inspire sustainable living practices and community resilience. Over the years, the center has become a living laboratory where ecological design, permaculture, and traditional ecological knowledge are practiced and taught.
The OAEC is renowned for its Permaculture Design Certification courses, which have been offered since 1996. These courses immerse participants in sustainable systems design, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to create regenerative practices in their own communities. The center also plays a vital role in local and state policy advocacy, influencing greywater regulations and salmon and beaver restoration projects.
One of the center’s crown jewels is the Mother Garden, a biodiverse haven with thousands of plant varieties. This garden not only serves as a resource for seed saving and propagation but also hosts some of California’s largest seed exchanges, fostering a community of plant enthusiasts dedicated to biodiversity and food security.
Throughout its history, the OAEC has been a gathering place for notable figures in the sustainability movement, including chef Alice Waters, whose early support helped sustain the center during financial hardships. The center’s programs draw from the rich traditional ecological knowledge of the Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo people, ensuring a deep connection to the land’s cultural heritage.
As you explore the Occidental Arts & Ecology Center, you’ll discover a place where ecological stewardship, community living, and creative expression come together to forge a resilient future. Whether you’re here for a course, a retreat, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty, the OAEC offers a glimpse into a world where humanity lives in harmony with the earth.
