Borealis is an ecovillage development and environmental education centre
based in the Boreal forest ecosystem. The Boreal forest is the largest
terrestrial ecosystem in the world and is a key component to our planet's
health. It covers much of northern Canada, Scandinavia and Russia. The
Boreal forest areas represent 33% of the world's total remaining forest cover
and produces a significant portion of our planets oxygen. These resources are
major global carbon sinks which require increased protection to minimise
threats associated with climate change.

Founded in 1991 by a small cadre of Green Foundation volunteers as an educational training centre, its 20-acre site has hosted numerous forest forage and earth-centred workshops.

• 150 km East of Jasper National Park
• 210 km West of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
• 20 km North of Edson, Alberta

Surrounded by National Forest.

The area surrounding Borealis is Boreal forest containing Aspen, Spruce, Pine and Larch.

The following large mammals are at home in the Boreal forest and have
been sighted in or within 10km of the Borealis site:
Black bear, elk, moose, deer and wolves.

The land is a combination of small hills and meadows bordered by the Edson River. Elevation is approximately 2800 ft. The Educational Centre and administrative offices currently serve as a focal point for all ecovillage and workshop activity.

An Ecovillage of 10 to 15 units is in the planning stage. Construction is expected to start Spring/Summer of 2002. Camping facilities are currently available. Visitor cabins are planned to be available by Spring 2003/2004.

Click here to view the Permaculture Design Site Plan for Borealis

The ecovillage habitation site is designed to maximize solar orientation, in a cluster design of 10 to 15 units. Each occupent will have the option to design their own home, or utilize on-site expertise by resident Straw Bale designer/builder Paul Belanger (see Living Design Systems website). An on-site well will provide all of the community's water requirements. Home design parameters include: natural building materials, off-grid energy efficiency, herb gardens, private yard space, walk paths and community garage.

If you have ever considered living in community, email us at: tree@auraborealis.com

Skills/professions desired:
Teacher, carpenter, herbalist, electrical engineer, plumber, artist, industrial designer, electirician, solar technologist, writer, nurse, computer repair, bodyworker, environmental engineer, hydrologist, orchard keeper, psychologist/psychiatrist, beekeeper, civil engineer, animal husbandry, botanist, market gardener, biochemist, mechanic, MD, welder, software engineering, forester, ND, lawyer, accountant, social ecologist.

Average approximate hours of daily sunshine: 12.32 hours

Average annual precipitation: 568mm (22.4 Inches)