When you consider that Bermuda only has about two weeks worth of food supply on Island at any one time, it makes the argument for growing your own fruits and vegetables that much more vital.

Darren Doherty, an international specialist in regenerative agriculture, will be on Island this week sharing his knowledge and experience on permaculture with residents.

Tonight he will be discussing techniques for how to grow your own food, which are “easy on the back and wallet and quick to implement”.

The talk, entitled ‘Food Security and You: Taking Responsibility for Growing Your Own Food in Hard Times’, will take place in the Visitor’s Centre in the Botanical Gardens, tonight at 7pm.

Organiser Andrea Dismont Trott said the lecture was aimed at people with little or no experience with agriculture, however, local ‘green thumbs’ will also find many of Mr Doherty’s points interesting and beneficial.

Also on the agenda during his short visit is a full day workshop tomorrow (THURSDAY) in a local neighbourhood near Devonshire Wreck, off of Palmetto Road.

Ms Dismont Trott said this was a great opportunity for area residents to learn first hand how to turn their lawns into productive gardens.

She said: “Lawns are impractical and from a by gone era. It is time that they become productive in helping to feed ourselves.

“We once were an Island with a surplus of fresh food that was exported to America, and our great grandparents rarely ate any imported produce. We were a farming society back then.

“It is amazing how quickly we have lost those roots and our connection to the earth. There was never a better time than now for residents to regain the skill of cultivation.”

Before leaving the Island on Friday, Mr Doherty will also be touring the Prison Farm, along with Omari Dill of Utopia Landscaping.

Mr Doherty was 24-years-old when he first dug his heels into a full-time career in Permaculture Design.

For many years he focused on design and development work — and was considered to be the most prolific Permaculture Designer in Australia at that time.

In 2002, after the birth of his two younger children Mr Doherty began focusing on a select few special projects and teaching around the world.

Ms Dismont Trott encouraged people to attend the talk, sponsored by private donations, tonight at Botanical Gardens. She said: “If you would like to support this event and others like it, there will be an opportunity to leave a donation during the evening.”

People are also encouraged to bring a portable chair because seats inside the Visitor’s Centre are limited.

Anyone interested in attending the workshop tomorrow should contact Mr Dill at omaridill@gmail.com or at 334-7532 for parking directions and details.

The workshop costs around $35; and is limited to 35 people.