This photograph captures a group of curious people, as they are taken on a tour of the chicken coops and rabbits pens. The Farallones Institute members chose these two animals because they are small, easily managed, and produce useful goods. Chickens provide eggs, feathers, and meat. Rabbits provide pelts and meat, and breed quickly. Both are fed with vegetables from the garden, and provide rich manure for composting.
As in this other photo from the same collection, this photo shows a variety of people from different age groups. A greater sense of community was built around the Integral Urban House. Volunteers could help harvest crops to take home and meet like-minded people at the same time. Public classes on anything from beekeeping to building solar heating structures were offered. A membership program to the Farallones Institute ensures the house would continue operating. In a way, this community outreach became a support “ecosystem” where people could offer their labor in exchange for food or gardening tips.
