The Completion and Delivery of the KPA Farm Project
The transformative journey that began in the heartland of the United States has now reached a significant milestone. The KPA Farm project, located on a 400-hectare ranch in Frederick, Oklahoma, has been successfully concluded and delivered by the dedicated team at Terracrua Design.
From the moment the Terracrua Design team set foot in Oklahoma, they were enveloped by the warmth of Southern hospitality. The genuine friendliness of the people, extending from Frederick to Fargo, became a cornerstone of their journey, creating a welcoming atmosphere that went beyond professional boundaries. This sense of community and collaboration became integral to the project’s success.
Addressing the Challenges
The primary challenge at KPA Farm was the landscape’s struggle with erosion and relentless winds. The team’s mission was to enhance soil fertility while preserving the natural integrity of the land. Over eight immersive days, the Terracrua Design team meticulously analyzed the terrain using advanced tools like QGIS and drones. This detailed data collection was essential, but the project also demanded a deep understanding of local plant species to align the farm’s vegetation with the region’s natural succession.
The project’s vision was heavily influenced by the surrounding natural beauty of the Wichita Natural Reserve, Hackberry Flats, and the Red River. These diverse landscapes provided unique hues and textures that inspired the design process. Emphasizing water management and access, the design respected the land’s natural contours and rhythms, ensuring that every element was seamlessly integrated.
Collaborative Efforts with Local Stakeholders
A critical component of the project’s success was the collaboration with Kinder Equipment and their dedicated team. Their expertise in pasture operations, seasonal strategies, and rotational techniques was invaluable. Understanding the machinery used at the farm and its operational calendar allowed Terracrua Design to optimize the layout of keyline pastures and hedgerows, making the farm both efficient and sustainable.
The Masterplan I Framework
Central to the successful delivery of the KPA Farm project was the implementation of Terracrua Design’s Masterplan I, a streamlined framework for earth modeling and landscape optimization. Inspired by the efficient P.E.A.R. system, this service provided a clear and organized plan for transforming the property into a productive and sustainable landscape.
Key Features of Masterplan I:
- Water Landscape Optimization:
- Strategic planning to maximize water features, ensuring efficient water use and conservation across the property.
- Access Planning:
- Design of efficient pathways to enhance connectivity and ease of movement throughout the farm.
- Permanent Vegetation Layout:
- Detailed design for enduring greenery, aligning with the natural succession of local plant species.
Key Deliverables:
- Project File in Geopackage Format:
- Comprehensive project data provided in a user-friendly Geopackage format for ease of access and manipulation.
- Tablet GPS Delivery via Geopackage/Qfield:
- The masterplan is accessible on-the-go, allowing for enhanced project management and implementation convenience.
This hassle-free service ensured that the KPA Farm project was delivered within the planned timeframe, providing a robust and efficient framework for future productivity and sustainability.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
As the Terracrua Design team bids farewell to Oklahoma, we carry with them not just data but a profound appreciation for the land’s humility and beauty. The completion and delivery of the KPA Farm project mark a significant achievement in our ongoing commitment to regenerative design. The echoes of wind-swept prairies and the silent stories of the Red River will continue to shape Terracrua Design’s future projects.
Stay tuned for more updates as Terracrua Design’s commitment to regeneration and sustainable design continues to blossom across diverse landscapes.
This project team:
Project Director and Initial Drafts: Nuno M. Santos
Qgis designer: Miguel Clemente
Brainstorm sessions included: André Carvalho
Estimations and timeline: Nuno M. Santos