What We Do
Our Approach
We work at the cross-section of
Community, Culture, & Environment
to regenerate Shingal.
Culture
Preserving traditions and rebuilding sacred spaces
Community
Environment
Restoring water systems, reforesting native ecosystems, and protecting biodiversity
Building infrastructure, housing, and sustainable food systems
1. Water Management
The Problem
Shingal Mountain is a groundwater recharge area that receives 400-600 mm rainfall annually. Until the 1970s, agriculture in the mountains was irrigated by natural springs, shallow wells and connected distribution systems. This system was disrupted by deforestation, overgrazing, and the ISIS genocide in 2014. The result is reduced water absorption, dried up springs, flash flooding and soil erosion all of which make it difficult for the population to return and make a livelihood.
Our Plan
Harvest rainwater from the hillsides on Shingal Mountain, using a combination of ponds and barriers that capture and store water, draw water back into the reservoir and restore natural springs
2. Reforestation & Restoration of Orchards
The Problem
Shingal’s oak forests have been seriously compromised by deforestation and climate change and hillside terraces, which were once full of fruit trees, are now devoid of vegetation.
Our Plan
Plant oaks on the mountain and establish native tree nurseries that can supply trees and other plants to be used across Shingal. Establish cooperative farms that incorporate sustainable water harvesting measures, composting and use permaculture practices.
3. Vegetation, Soil, & Grazing Lands
The Problem
Animal husbandry is a key source of income in northern Iraq, but droughts make it hard for animals to find water and grass. This leads to overgrazing, which damages the land and causes erosion, leaving behind dry, rocky soil.
Our Plan
Create sustainable pasture systems that:
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Build on traditional grazing agreements
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Support community-led pasture management
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Design regenerative grazing plans that fit the local climate and culture
4. Housing
The Problem
Most new buildings in Shingal, including NGO-funded homes, are made with concrete—offering poor insulation, cramped space, and little long-term value. The local cement factory creates heavy pollution, damaging crops and deterring livestock breeding, while providing few jobs.
Our Plan
Improve upon traditional adobe housing with help from technologies and expertise in Spain and the American Southwest that help local builders improve brickmaking techniques to create durable, sustainable homes from local materials
5. Culture
The Problem
Much of the population has been displaced for more than a decade and communal and religions centers have been destroyed.
Our Plan
Construct community spaces, restore places of worship, and preserve cultural heritage
6. Research
The Problem
Strictly controlled checkpoints make it difficult even for experts to have access to Shingal which, in turn, inhibits development of Shingal and makes it more difficult to address the actual needs there.
Our Plan
Establish contact between local and regional experts and improve access to Shingal for international scholars and developers working on ecological, cultural, and social revitalization of Shingal
Our Plan
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Stop flash flooding by building dams, planting trees, and storing and purifying water
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Recharge groundwater and store rainwater
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Combine agricultural best practices to restore the land
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Create 22 dams
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Implement a Model Farm as a microcosm of research and development
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Create nurseries with composting sites in both the North and South to grow native plants, model sustainable agriculture, and teach regenerative practices
Upcoming Projects
Native Tree Nursery
On the site of the olive orchard, we will begin work on a nursery in early 2026, which will provide native plants, model sustainable farming and serve as educational spaces for regenerative practices.
Tree Planting Campaign with the „Million Oaks“ Project
After collecting acorns this Autumn, Regenerate Shingal‘s youth program will plant oaks on the mountain with support from Hasar Organization, whose „Million Oaks“ project has already successfully planted 300,000 oak trees across northern Iraq. This practical act or regeneration also raises awareness for climate action.
Converting Tents to Chicken Coops
As families are moving out of their tents into permanent housing, the frames are available for repurposing. These are an ideal base for mobile chicken coops, which double as mobile fertilizing units.
Our Impact in 2025
