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The willow feeder system, developed by permaculture expert Paul Wheaton, offers a "freaky-cheap" and sustainable alternative to conventional septic systems and sewage treatment plants. This system employs a unique method of managing human waste, transforming it into a nutrient-rich fertilizer known as "willow candy." Unlike composting toilets, which rely on decomposition, willow feeders utilize sealed garbage cans to create a dry environment that mummifies the waste, effectively eliminating pathogens while conserving valuable carbon and nitrogen. A small amount of sawdust is added to each can, primarily for aesthetics. After aging for two years in these sealed containers, the resulting pathogen-free "willow candy" is ready to be applied as fertilizer. However, not all plants can handle the high nutrient content of this unique fertilizer. "Poop beasts", such as willow, cottonwood, poplar, and bamboo trees, thrive on "willow candy" and readily absorb its nutrients. The willow feeder system exemplifies permaculture principles by turning human waste into a valuable resource, fostering sustainable gardening practices and minimizing environmental impact. Paul Wheaton, a prominent figure in the permaculture community, has implemented the willow feeder system at his property, Wheaton Labs, and actively promotes it through his online platforms, including permies.com. He often refers to waste as a "feed" for another system, encouraging a shift in perspective towards a more holistic view of resource management.

WOFATI structures demonstrate remarkable effectiveness due to their unique design features and emphasis on passive systems. The "two-skin" system, characterized by a double layer of membrane, protects the structure from moisture, ensuring dryness and longevity. WOFATI designs prioritize the use of natural and locally sourced materials, primarily wood and earth, significantly reducing the building's environmental impact and embodying the "freaky-cheap" philosophy pioneered by Mike Oehler. The core principle of "Annualized Thermal Inertia" harnesses the earth's thermal mass to regulate temperature fluctuations, providing passive heating in the winter and cooling in the summer. Large windows strategically placed on the uphill side, along with a spacious gable roof on the downhill side, often incorporating glazing, maximize passive solar gain, further enhancing energy efficiency. By minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems, WOFATIs achieve substantial energy savings. Allerton Abbey, the first WOFATI built at Wheaton Labs, exemplifies the practicality and success of this building technique

The "freaky-cheap" aspect of WOFATI is fundamental to its appeal and accessibility. Inspired by Mike Oehler's pioneering work in earth-sheltered building, WOFATI prioritizes utilizing readily available natural materials, primarily wood and earth, minimizing reliance on expensive, manufactured products. By embracing the "freaky-cheap" ethos, WOFATI construction drastically reduces building costs, making sustainable living a more attainable reality. The emphasis on "soil on wood" construction eliminates the need for a traditional concrete foundation, further reducing expenses. This approach also facilitates rapid building times, as demonstrated by the construction of WOFATI structures at Wheaton Labs, such as Allerton Abbey. The use of recycled or salvaged materials, whenever possible, further contributes to the affordability of WOFATI buildings. By minimizing material costs and construction time, WOFATI empowers individuals to create sustainable and comfortable dwellings without incurring significant financial burdens.

"Woodland" management, as described by Ben Law in his books The Woodland Way and The Woodland Year, promotes active human participation in shaping and nurturing the ecosystem. This approach prioritizes the long-term health and resilience of the woodland, recognizing its value not only for timber production but also for food, medicine, wildlife habitat, and overall ecological well-being. The choice of "woodland" over "forest" in describing Wofati design reflects a deliberate shift away from extractive forestry practices towards a more harmonious and sustainable relationship with the natural world. This distinction highlights the importance of language in shaping our understanding and approach to land management, emphasizing the need for conscious and mindful stewardship of the Earth's resources.