Stories from Main Street: Episode 2
Shelby’s Foodways: Alex Meander
More species of plants can be found in the mountains of North Carolina than any other area of similar size in North America. At large, the state itself fosters a multitude of native plants, many of which offer medicinal or nutritional properties. Alex Meander and his partner Stacey run Ardea Homestead in Cleveland County, North Carolina. There, they dedicate themselves to the practice of permaculture, a set of design principles that are focused on aligning human activity with observed patterns and resilient features in local ecosystems. Taking advantage of naturally occurring patterns offers a more sustainable partnership, ideally better for humans and their environment alike. Foraging and gathering (there’s a difference!) are both at the core of the practice of permaculture, and Alex practices both daily.
Wandering the woods he harvests and encourages the growth of native varieties of plants, including sumac, a plant that has been used in the area for hundreds of years. Its recent re-entry to the local palate is a manifestation of western North Carolina’s food history, and a reminder of how place affects culture, ritual, and tradition. The name Ardea refers to the great blue heron (Ardea herodias), a bird that Alex and Stacey both find strength in together. If you find yourself in Cleveland County, stop by and learn about their place.
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Find the interview transcript here.
