Grades 3 and Up
Redwood Valley, CA
Near the headwaters of the Russian River, our Redwood Valley basecamp is located at the homestead of our dear friends Luke and Emily Frey in Mendocino County. The property is home to a multigenerational community of people working to live together in harmony with the land. In 2017, the fall wildfires raged through the property, burning much of the farm infrastructure and personal homes. Along with this devastation however has come incredible resilience and new growth within the community and landscape alike.
Here at Redwood Valley basecamp, we will participate in work projects in the garden and on the farm, as we join together in celebration of the spectacular biodiversity the Frey’s four-decades of organic stewardship has cultivated. Students will participate in farm work with the animals, tending the garden beds, and shaping the forest landscape through holistic forestry practices. In combination with this, we will eat fresh farm foods and explore the mystical creeks, mineral springs, and redwood forests that surround our basecamp home. Each night, we will come together around the fire to share a meal and reflect on the day’s adventures.
The First Day
Upon arrival to Redwood Valley basecamp, you will meet your Kroka instructors, make home, and settle in to life. Afterwards, we will come together around the fire to set the stage for our upcoming adventures.
Daily Activities and Flow
Each day will begin with work projects on the land, such as weeding and planting in the gardens, building and turning compost, working in the forest, and caring with the animals. Our work will be balanced by magical adventures in the redwoods and surrounding streams. We will end our days with a hot meal followed by gathering around the fire to reflect on our experiences.
Ending the Program
Our final day will begin working on the land like all the rest, followed by packing up our gear, and having a final closing circle. We will then wave our goodbyes.
