I’m looking for an earthwork contractor who can install swales on our property near Spokane. I’d also love to find someone knowledgeable who can review my plan and make sure I’m not doing anything unwise before we start moving dirt.
Our Situation:
We have 10 acres of gently rolling Palouse hillside. My wife is a horse person, and the property came with a house and a big horse barn (currently empty). The land is fenced and cross-fenced with barbed wire from when the previous owner ran cattle. Before we bring in horses, we’ll need to re-fence—and I’d like to take that opportunity to plant tree rows along the new fence lines.
My idea is to run swales along these tree rows to catch water, build soil, and help establish trees. Our goals are to increase biodiversity, support wildlife, and grow some food over time. Right now, the property is essentially just grass.
I previously did a remote consultation with permaculture consultant Nick Ferguson when we first moved here, which was helpful for general direction, but I think it’s worth getting additional input before making big changes to the landscape—especially since I’m unsure how large the swales should be.
We have two young kids and not a ton of free time, so this is a long-term project, but I’d like to get the earthworks right as a first step.
If you know of any good contractors or consultants in the Spokane area—or if you have personal experience or advice with similar projects—I’d love to hear from you.
Thanks in advance!
rough-plan-so-far.png
overall site plan and potential new fence lines and tree rows
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