Footprint toolkit v2.1
The Footprint Toolkit is a set of cards that represent elements in our agro-ecosystem. These include annual vegetables like zucchini or lettuce, but also perennials such as apples and plums. Each card has detailed information relating to the inputs required (eg. nitrogen and water), the micro-climates necessary to support it (eg. solar environment), the inherent characteristics (such as the micro-climates, plant spacing, and possible companion plants), and the outputs (including the food energy, protein, calcium and vitamin A that characterize each). Importantly, the toolkit recognizes the quantitative and spatial qualities of each with reference to what people typically eat. In this way, the toolkit can help students understand, and plan for an agro-ecosystem that is (more) self-sufficient.
Unlike a book this small deck of cards can be arranged on a map or chart in a way to help new or experienced farmers make planning decisions. In addition to the yield predictions noted on the cards, the scaled model on the cards can also be traced over on a map to help generate a clear vision of what the planting scheme could look like. The kit works well by itself or in-partnership with the Urban Agriculture Design Guide – a pocket book that provides more guidance on topics such as reading the landscape, companion planting, urban agriculture design processes, and seasonal food harvests.
Click the link below to purchase a printable digital version appropriate for temperate climates. You will be redirected to Paypal where you can purchase multiple copies if needed ( Eg. class sets)
$15 NZD/copy