In Northeastern Missouri, there is a quiet—but dedicated—effort to operate a sustainable community called Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage.

Led by proprietor Alline Anderson, it’s the type of place that captures your attention at first glance (or in my case, on first click). Comprised of 36 adults, Dancing Rabbit is home to the strawbale-built Milkweed Mercantile (an online shop too), an Eco Inn, Organic Café, and plays host to a healthy round-up of retreats and seminars.
The B&B-style inn, which is set to open this Fall (reservations will be available in November), is slated to be an “entirely green alternative”—crafted from only reclaimed, recycled or sustainable materials; powered by self-generated electricity (on-site solar and wind); and completely commercial scent free. Made up of four guestrooms, all named after ecological and social hall-of-famers, the inn overlooks the rolling prairies. (Rates begin at just $65/night during the low season and include waking up to an organic, local breakfast.)
So, if you’re looking to dip a toe into the communal lifestyle pool, head toward Missouri. You can check out a list of seminars and retreats here (2010 lists will become available in late September) or get a better feel for Alline’s efforts by perusing her informational Passion for Green Business blog.


























Thanks Jessica for the lovely write-up!
Just a note: I am the proprietor of the Milkweed Mercantile but do NOT lead Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage. Our community has no leader and makes all decisions by consensus – what binds us together is our commitment to our six ecological covenants. For more on Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage, please see http://www.dancingrabbit.org
Thanks for the clarification, Alline! Please do keep us updated on the eco inn’s progress.