Matt had been exploring ecosystems worldwide for shows like BBC's Planet Earth when he realized he wanted to "learn every bird's nest" in his own corner of the world.

[For the "fairylands" reference by the Swarbricks go to 11:48 within video]

Using a no-dig method that relies on good composting practices, the couple began using permaculture principles of regenerative farming to restore the soil health of the vegetable beds. Today, on just one acre, they can provide produce for 100 families. 

On the remainder of the property, they began planting trees to convert pastures into savannah grasslands, or what Matt calls "the most productive ecosystems on earth." Relying on agroforestry techniques of maximizing highly productive "woodland edges," they divided the pastures into 35 fields lined with fruit and nut trees. This not only produces a crop but it provides smaller spaces for the rotational grazing of their cows, sheep, and chickens, which in turn improves soil fertility with minimal input.

With a big loan to pay, the couple decided to create a campsite on their property for extra money. Their first small shelter is an affordable take on the traditional Celtic roundhouse. Using cob, straw bale, and lime for walls and sod from the fields for the roof, the circular structure resembles something out of Tolkien's Middle Earth, and they have nicknamed it the hobbit/fairy/witch house.