History

In 2022, Jasmine bought 12 acres of raw land in Carlow, New Brunswick with a dream of having a safe forever home for herself and sharing the land with others. We believe that we are stronger and can achieve a better quality of life by sharing and working together with others who value community, science and balance between our modern technological lives and the systems of nature that ensure our survival.

The Land

Lockheart lays in an area once inhabited by Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik First Nations. Today, the nearest band reserves are Tobique/Neqotkuk and Woodstock with each about 30 minutes away.

The Shiktehawk River runs south and west of our property, crossing over Lockhart’s Mill Road that gives Lockheart its (intentionally misspelled) name. We have 12 acres, with a bit less than half of that being forested. The land was partially logged in 2021, with much of the logging debris composting naturally. A small stream runs along the south end of the property, with fiddleheads found naturally in spring. A trail running through our forest and around the perimeter will show you over 2km of nature with sweeping valley and mountain views, all without leaving the property. We share the land with deer, moose, ravens, eagles, hawks and other birds, coyote, porcupine, squirrels, chipmunks, and at least one dog. The driveway was put in by the loggers and runs nearly the length of the property, providing good initial access. The land is at a 320m elevation, sitting on the western ridge of a hill that overlooks nearby mountains. Our west view includes Mars Hill, a 28 windmill installation in Maine, and Moose Mountain, both offering winter skiing and beautiful sunsets. Our community garden, coming in 2024, covers more than one acre.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rk4H5EMKN9AJatzk8

Community Members

In addition to the shared 12 acres, we have several members who already live in the area or preparing to build, including two (potentially three so far!) members with nearly adjoining parcels of land. We are also connected with an established land share community, Knowlesville South Land Share, who run the Knowlesville Art and Nature School.

Progress

In 2023, the first structures on the land were built. First, a small bathhouse with a composting toilet and handwashing sink was constructed using local and milled timber. Next, we ordered a 10x24’ building from Old Hickory Buildings to serve as an initial meeting space.

Structure

Once we have 3 or more members, we will form a legal non-profit housing cooperative. Members will contribute to and form consensus on the incorporation of the co-op, with major decisions being made annually by consensus.

To learn more about joining Lockheart Community and living on site, read more about membership in our forming co-operative.