Scott Johnson

When we think about a future without reliance on fossil fuels, we have to think about locally available materials, which are healthier for both us and our surroundings. Before industrialization, roofing consisted of regionally available organic materials, slate, clay, or tar, depending on locality. Organic roofs were made of straw, reeds, palm fronds, wooden shingles or shakes, bark, or boards. In a future where we must become more locally dependent, these are the most reasonable options for keeping our structures weather tight. In this session, participants will learn the very basics of straw or reed thatching as practiced in northwestern Europe and Britain. We will discuss basic tools, materials, techniques, and considerations. Participants will have an opportunity to get some hands-on experience as well, using a practice roof pitch at ground level. This will not make you a thatcher by any means, but it will give you a first look at a surprisingly broad and deep craft.

I invite you to join this or one of the many other excellent presentations, talks and demonstrations taking place during the 2022 Wisconsin Permaculture Convergence, Sept. 23-25 near Rio, Wisconsin. If you haven’t yet, there’s still time to register for some or all of the weekend’s activities.