I became interested in permaculture in the late 1970's when a friend began building a sustainable homestead near Traverse City, MI. That interest led me to devour issues of Mother Earth News beginning with Vol. 1, No.1. Using the knowledge I acquired there and elsewhere, I built my own sustainable homestead with the construction of a passive solar, poured pumice-crete home on five acres of land in Santa Fe, NM during 1990 - 1991.

During 1992 I continued my passionate quest in permaculture by taking certification courses in Permaculture Design, Advanced Permaculture Design, and Permaculture Trainer's Training through the Permaculture Drylands Institute of Santa Fe, NM. In 2003, I had the good fortune to participate in an Eco-Village Design Course, given by Max Lindeggar of Crystal Waters. I continued developing my own project, teaching courses, and doing consultations until 2005, when I sold my property in New Mexico and 'retired' to Panama. I am active in continuing consultations and occasionally host WWOOFer's and other interested persons from around the world.

Since coming to Panama I have purchased a 75 ac. tract of mountain land near my home with the vision of building a permaculture community and am simultaneously developing a small permaculture homestead in Chame, Panama. I am interested in connecting with others who have the vision and means to join in developing the permaculture community. Those with a serious interest may contact me at vdnanzal@yahoo.com with Valles de Nanzal as the subject.