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Contour Swales

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Contour Swales

Contour Swales

Definition

Shallow ditches dug along contour lines to capture and infiltrate water, recharging groundwater and preventing erosion.

Interpretation

Earth’s smile lines. Swales are sculpted pauses β€” ways to slow the rush of water, allow absorption, and nourish the roots. In permaculture, they are acts of reverent redirection.

Living Invitation

Find a slope near you and imagine where a swale would want to be. Ask the land: where are you thirsty?