2025 PiNA Design Contest
Finalists
Now we need your help to pick the best entry in each category!
Biochar Grand Prize Award – WINNER*
(Column A) *See FAQ
KITZIA KOKOPELMANA, Baja California Sur, Mexico, Buena Fortuna Gardens
New Designer Award – Finalists
(Column B)
Khari Jackson, Port Townsend, WA, North Star Grove
Megan Gilger, Traverse City, MI, Cottonwood Forest Garden
Skip Shuda, Schuylkill County, PA, Camp Broken Arrow: A Permaculture Learning Forest
Ethan Cohen, Highlands Ranch, CO Suburban Ecoscape
PINA Design Contest FAQ’s
Why isn’t there voting for the Biochar Track this year?
This year’s Biochar Track did not include a public voting phase because the number of submissions in the Professional category was very small, and only one of those entries demonstrated the level of preparation needed to successfully carry out the commitments of the project. After careful review, the panel unanimously agreed that one design stood clearly above the rest in its readiness, scope, and ability to deliver meaningful impact.
For that reason, the decision was straightforward: the prize was awarded directly to Kitzia Kokopelmana, whose submission met the full criteria and reflected strong professional capacity. In this situation, opening a voting period would not have served the purpose of member choice, since there were no comparable entries to review alongside hers.
PINA remains committed to transparency, fairness, and community participation. We fully expect voting to return next year.
Who is allowed to vote for their favorite design?
Voting is open to PINA members only. If you are not a PINA member, you can easily become one by signing up for one of our low cost membership plans.
Who were the judges of the PINA Permaculture Design Contest?
The judges for this year’s Permaculture Design Contest included PINA Board and Staff members: Peter Bane, Matt Bennett, Elizabeth Lynch, & Lindsay Brandon.
How many times can we vote?
You can vote for one design in each category between 11/15-12/15.
What are the rules for the design contest?
You can find the rules for the design contest by clicking this link. Viewing the rules will help you make a more qualified vote.
How can I vote?
You can vote for your favorite design, by following this link.
Congratulations to this Yearʻs Finalists!
Past Design Contest Winners
Inform your decision on who to vote for by reviewing past winners of the Permaculture Design Challenge. You can see what it takes to determine whether or not a project deserves to take top honors.