Regenerating a farm as an opportunity
We spent a while deciding to start a farm in Lanzarote. Now that we're doing it, we realize it's a big responsibility.
We are not here to capitalize on the island but to extend its possibilities
Although we own this land on paper it only gives us the right to take care of it.
This principle guides our approach to managing this farm efficiently. Our primary goal is to optimize its potential, prioritizing its well-being during our stewardship. Enduring a climate characterized by 11 arid months annually, compounded by the impacts of climate change and the distinctive attributes of our locale, we face numerous hurdles. However, through strategic planning and perseverance, we continue to strive towards sustainable success.
The guiding planting principles implemented on our farm revolve around the straightforward concept of permaculture. This methodology involves dividing the farm into different zones and ensuring that roots remain in the soil as extensively as feasible.
By regenerating the land gradually and transforming it into a lush green expanse, we aim to achieve sustainability. It is crucial to have rooted plants on terraced land to combat erosion effectively. The ongoing process of converting the barren black lava soil into a verdant area not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to water conservation efforts in the long run.
We've set up three vegetable gardens and plan to add a fourth and a big plant nursery later on. Over 250 new trees and bushes are planted, totaling over 320.
By choosing to visit our finca or stay here, you become a vital contributor to our cause. We aim to expand our efforts in the coming years by imparting our knowledge to the local community and all those who come to experience our space.
Planting for the future
Not only is Lanzarote known for its arid conditions, the issue of water scarcity looms large over the island. To combat this challenge, our initial efforts have focused on implementing water recycling systems.
Looking ahead, we are exploring the installation of fog and dew catchers to maximize water collection potential throughout the year. Our ultimate aspiration is to amass a substantial water reserve, enabling us to transform the currently desiccated pond situated atop our agricultural land into a thriving green sanctuary. This revitalization project would not only rejuvenate the land but also allow us to reforest the barren slope adjacent to it, envisioning a more sustainable and verdant landscape for all to enjoy.
Booking at Hektor gives you the opportunity to support our fog and dew catcher installations.
A quest for water
Artists as changemakers - Changemaking as an art form
Our Artist/Activist in Residency program actively contributes to our life at the farm. Whether it is Salomée Souag, researching the possibilities of natural pigments sourced on the farm and island or Truls Martenssons installation that exemplifies Lanzarote’s strong natural forces: they all help us question the actions we take.
Other artists focus on the communities and natural possibilities of the island: Matthew Carney united the queer community on a hike in the wild and Hilde Bouchez came to practice what she preaches in her own book A Wild Thing, leaving behind a collection of inspirational and playful objects that might or might not last forever.