I'm in Bastrop, TX (Hill Country edge, Lost Pines area) on a 1/3-acre lot with a gentle compound slope (N/S and E/W, not steep). House is lower, backyard slopes up toward the fence/back easement. Compacted clay soil (amendments ready: biochar charging, compost, Azomite/greensand, wood chips incoming). Aerobic septic installed close behind house with surface sprinklers â must stay 15â20 ft away from tank/lines/sprinklers for any earthwork.
Goal: Passive water retention (micro-swales/berms on contour to slow/spread/sink runoff) + food forest (fruit trees, berries, kiwi, herbs, annual veggies). Budget $5Kâ$8K total (want to do it right once, no future fixes). Gutters planned to IBCs on side of house.
I have a helper new to permaculture and a landscaper (conventional background) with skid steer access for spreading/implementing, but I need a proper contour map and septic-safe design first.
Looking for a permaculture consultant/designer in Central Texas (Austin/Bastrop area preferred) for a site visit + contour mapping + swale/berm plan + basic planting zones. Budget $500â$1,200 for design-only (not full install). Available this week/next if possible.
Happy to share photos of slope, septic markers, soggy areas, back flat easement. DM or reply if you do this work or know someone good. Thanks!
