About The Owner
Background

Born in a small town in northwest Washington state, some of Blake’s earliest memories are of his mother’s vegetable garden. Walking barefoot through rows of corn, pulling up carrots, the smell of tomatoes and basil, and eating raspberries right off the vine.
As a young boy, he developed a passion for fishing the many lakes, rivers, and streams throughout the Pacific Northwest. His childhood home was located right on the south fork of the Skagit River. He used to ride his bike down to his secret spot on the river, fishing all day for trout and salmon.
These childhood experiences were foundational to his connection with the natural world – a love he carries with him to this day.
Wherever possible, Blake tries to incorporate sustainable methods and materials into his construction projects. This inspiration has expanded Swifthawk Construction’s offerings to include ecological land management and wildfire safety in the landscape around his clients’ homes.
Blake also has a background in sustainable agriculture, working on many farms and ranches over the years. His focus has been on developing practical hands-on skills to apply toward a healthier way of living for himself and his community.
He moved to Sonoma County in 2007 where he lives with his wife, who is an incredible source of love, support, and inspiration to him. A typical day for him is working on a construction project during the day and winding down in his vegetable garden in the evening.
Qualifications & Certifications
CA Licensed General Contractor Lic # 1063641
Certified Permaculture Designer
2 week Design Certificate Course with Sam Bullock, Marisa Auerbach, Albert Postema
Wise Earth Ecological Landtrust – 2006
2 week Design Certificate Course with Kendall Dunnigan and Brock Dolman Occidental Arts and Ecology Center – 2014
A.S. Degree in Sustainable Agriculture
Santa Rosa Junior College – 2010
Other Related Trainings
Traditional Ecological Knowledge Training with Dennis Martinez
San Rafael – 2010
Water Harvesting Earthworks training with Geoff Lawton and John Valenzuela – 2012 – San Mateo California
Wildcrafting with Tamara Wilder
Sonoma County, CA 2015
Advanced Rainwater Harvesting with Erik Ohlsen and Brock Dolman
Permaculture Skills Center – 2018
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Natural Building project with Sunray Kelly
Stanwood, WA – 2012
Farmhand – Foxwhelp Farm
Certified Organic Farm
Healdsburg, CA
2009 – 2012
