As pointed out in the update of Ecological Dimension of SIAD, SEA was going to hold a bio-dynamic farming and gardening course. Such a course did take place starting 22 January to 24 January 2016. Around 26 people attended the course.

The BD course emphasized both theory and practice. Many topics were covered. One of the most important was how to build a bio-dynamic compost pile in actual practice.

The Course participants observed and took notes. But most important they also helped build the bio-dynamic compost pile.

They also asked a lot of questions. These were immediately answered on the field. However, extensive  conversations also took place in the classroom.

And in the end the morning light descended on the pile of plant substances that were ready to be composted. It was quite an effect.

Participants also had a chance to acquaint themselves with other bio-dynamic practices in the field. Below is a picture of participants activating BD Prep 500 for enlivening the soil.

SEA then explained the importance of the timing of the application of BD 500 especially in connection with lowland rice. The participants then applied the activated BD 500 and applied it to the soil with rice plants on them. Others observed.

SEA also introduced participants to the use of machineries, in this case, a rice thresher that Vidar Farm 2.0 also used to thresh soybeans.

The Course had a curriculum. But a lot of the substance of the Course came from the questions of the participants themselves.

In the end that was the most important of all. Participants networked among themselves and were all excited to put their new knowledge into practice. A network on bio-dynamic research also emerged among the participants. SEA was tasked to guide this process.