Are there more clouds this summer, or is it me?  I do have clouds on my radar.  They became a symbol for a conversation about water during The River’s Journey Project. 

There is a lot to talk about in regards to water these days. I’m doing my best to cut back on our water consumption. Meanwhile, I’m working away on my “89 Clouds” Series.

Based on Mark Strand’s poem, 89 cloudscapes are under construction. Stay tuned for more!

This summer we have avoided some of the record heat due to our cloud cover.  Hallelujah!  We may get some of that heat later in the year, but I am grateful for our cool temps considering I work in a barn with a metal roof.  And I don’t envy my friends and family who are experiencing those triple digits across the nation.

Low tide strolls have offered more inspiration.

I am so excited about what I am learning at White Buffalo Land Trust's Center for Regenerative Agriculture at Jalama Canyon Ranch during my artist residency. Be sure to visit their website and learn more. I will share bite size bits of information, as I have new experiences.

Cattle Round Up, Jalama Canyon Ranch Sketch Book, gouache by Holli Harmon

Recently, I learned about revitalizing our pasture land with responsible grazing methods. I saw Jalama Canyon ranch in action during a cattle round up with one of the White Buffalo partners, Richards Grassfed Beef. The cows were brought to graze the pastures over winter for just enough time to eat the tops of the grasses, leave a little fertilizer, and then move on. With a watchful eye and management, the cows become partners in regenerating the soil to hold more water and carbon. This method heals the pastures and riparian zones from over grazing. It’s actually thrilling to see a regenerative circle that includes land, animals, and humans that heals our planet.

“It’s not the cow, it’s the HOW...”

— Bobby Gill - Savory Institute

Regenerative farming is one of the best ways we can heal the earth and slow global warming. This concept gives me a lot of hope. Two short documentaries that are both beautiful and educational are Kiss the Ground on Netflix and Biggest Little Farm on Amazon Prime.

I hope you enjoy the journey and follow along. And share the message with your friends and family. We all can be part of the solution!

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