Asheville Permaculture

Permaculture Classes, Gatherings and Events

Permaculture at Ruby Ranch

It’s hard to believe that our Permaculture Design Course of 2025 comes to an end in October! What an incredible journey it has been. It is always inspiring to witness the amount of knowledge that our students bring to class. And it’s even more amazing seeing what they do after their certification. We are continually blown away by the heart, drive and motivation these students bring to the world.

In 2024, we decided that we wanted to start offering a different schedule for earning your Permaculture Design Certificate that might better align with different schedules. When hurricane Helene hit, our Permaculture Design Course dreams took the back burner, and we considered not offering it at all. After speaking with colleagues and mentors, and as we began to shift away from catastrophe into healing and repair, we felt clear that we should offer this course.

We are excited to announce our 2026 Permaculture Design Course. This course meets for three long intensive weekends in April, May and June. Students learn permaculture in Asheville, North Carolina, with three main instructors and many experienced guest teachers. Whether you plan to use this knowledge for your career or in your personal life, you’ll acquire the skills to create self-sufficient ecosystems and sustainably manage the land. This course also dives into social permaculture as well as race in agriculture and beyond. 

Class primarily takes place at the Ruby Ranch, with multiple tours and hands-on activities at other farms in the Asheville area. Participants can camp onsite or in the region, or book one of many air BnB’s or hotels in the area. Click the ‘Learn More’ button for more information about this offering!

April- October 2025

 

"Nature is not a place to visit. It is home."

— GARY SNYDER

FAQs

Luke Cannon Plant Walk Asheville

  • This depends partly on why you are coming to the Ranch. This is a mostly outdoor space in the WNC mountains, which means the weather can change quickly. Be prepared with layers, a water bottle, snacks and/or sunscreen. Each specific event will let you know if you need to bring anything else. It is a working farm. Farm appropriate footwear encouraged.

  • We have a heated indoor bathroom available to the public.

  • We accept venmo, check, and cash. Most events will also accept credit card payments.

  • There is ample parking on sight. Four wheel drive is not required.

  • Horses are big, powerful animals that form relationships just like people. When meeting them for the first time, you may do so with the guidance of Ruby Ranch support staff. Of course you may quietly engage with them from a distance over the fence.

  • The Ranch is a kid-friendly space. Unless an event indicates otherwise, all events are family-friendly.

  • At this time, we ask that you leave your beloved furry canines at home. This is to keep the peace and security of the animals already living on site.

  • You can volunteer on our community workdays (click here). If you have a specific volunteer request, or want to volunteer as a specific group, please reach out to us.