ABSTRACT
One of the major problems with theories calling for significant changes in the way modern societies and institutions are designed is that they are too abstract, removed from practical concerns and issues. This is true of bioregionalism. In order to take this approach to the next level, we need to show how bioregionalism might work on the ground, in specific places. Vermont-a place where natural and human communities are fairly healthy-is an interesting place to explore the potential for translating bioregional theory into practice. It is the most rural state in the US; it has the second smallest population of any state; it has a tradition of vibrant local democracy, most apparent in the continuing town meeting; it has a strong independent streak (Vermont was an independent republic from 1777 to 1791); and its landscape is one that is recovering from massive ecological changes wrought by European settlement.
