Blackwood Educational Land Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to land-based learning that encourages the spirit and feeds the soul as it challenges and educates the mind. Located near Hempstead, Texas (about 45 minutes from Houston), a formerly neglected tract of land has been turned into a living learning environment. Created and inspired by permaculture designer Cath Conlon, Blackwood offers students a bridge between the indoor school classroom and the outdoor classroom as well as adult workshops and corporate and private retreats in a peaceful, natural setting. Blackwood is an ecosystem and living classroom that inspires and teaches students of all ages to explore the natural web of life and to develop a healthy, respectful relationship with nature.