A Place-Based Action-Learning Commons

The heart of the model is a living experiment focused on maximizing quality of life within a sustainable footprint hosted in an experiential, place-based learning and retreat centre.

All our work is based on the idea of the fair share footprint as the foundation of sustainability. We see this as the key to a new, healthier way of thinking about resources and the economy, one that can heal the damage done by extractive capitalism.

A small team of dedicated farmer-caretakers are given the challenge of providing the equivalent of a complete diet for the footprints we steward, with minimal outside inputs in a way that is carbon-neutral or carbon-negative and resilient in the face of climate chaos.

Visitors have the opportunity of living and working alongside this team to experience for themselves the beauty, benefits and challenges of a regenerative lifestyle. We hope in this way to inspire new lifeboat builders around the world and support their efforts through webinars and online support.

If you’re interested in visiting Spalding Valley Farm, and/or offering financial support to help make this project possible, send us an email at friends@lifeboat.academy.

Online Support for Lifeboat Builders

We offer a variety of resources to support people building place-based resilience networks, including webinars, peer support spaces, mentorship, and tools for effective collaboration. You can access these resources on our Help Desk.

Whether you’re just getting started or are already a seasoned lifeboat builder, we’re available to support you. Schedule a 1-1 call with a member of the Lifeboat Crew here.

All our work is freely offered, and we ask folks consider paying it forward when you feel you have received benefit.

Interim Stewardship Council & other partners

Bernie Amell, Ecological Designer & founder of Heartwood Cooperative, Quadra Island
CoHo BC, Collaborative Home Ownership
Paula Caird, Manager, Government of Canada
Jake Enns, Founder of the Renewing the Future Society
Lisa Fleming, Ptarmigan Arts
Ronnie Gelman, The Lifeboat Academy
Brooke Hayes, PhD, Soil Science, University of Victoria
Ben Kadel, PhD, Emotus Operandi; The Lifeboat Academy
Rebecca S. Krantz, PhD
Roland Maurice, The Lifeboat Academy
Deb L. Morrison, PhD, CLEAR Environmental
Jim Peacock, Southern Gulf Islands Community Justice Program
Karly Pinch
Heather Pritchard, Foodlands Cooperative of BC
Benji Ross, Founder of the Bioregional Catalysts and Weavers Guild
April Struthers, Social Change Consultant / Owner Wit Works Ltd.