Public framework sheet

GODREAMET Framework Sheet

By Mark D’Cruz, developed from his Applied Permaculture Diploma research and Academy teaching

GODREAMET reworks lessons from the US Forest Service DREAM research framework into a cautious, iterative process for small-scale regenerative silviculture.

Collection
Design Frameworks
Reading time
4 minutes
First published
15 August 2026
Last reviewed
15 August 2026
The nine-stage GODREAMET cycle for regenerative silviculture: Goals, Observe, Design, Resources, Experiment, Apply, Manage, Evaluate and Transform, with ethics and feedback throughout.
GODREAMET is Mark D’Cruz’s adaptation of lessons from the US Forest Service DREAM research framework. It is presented for cautious, iterative woodland design and does not imply Forest Service endorsement. Open full-size infographic.

What the framework is for

Useful for long-lived woodland systems where climate uncertainty, succession and delayed feedback make small experiments and continuing management essential.

Stages and movement

  1. GoalsDefine the regenerative direction and responsibilities.
  2. ObserveRead land, patterns, seasons and stakeholder needs.
  3. DesignDevelop a flexible silviculture strategy.
  4. ResourcesMap physical, social and financial capacity.
  5. ExperimentUse small trials before wider commitment.
  6. ApplyPut tested strategies into practice.
  7. ManageSteer succession and ongoing woodland care.
  8. EvaluateCompare ecological and practical evidence with the goals.
  9. TransformChange strategies or relationships in response to learning.

Ethics and feedback remain active throughout. Move back when evidence changes the question.

A concise application

At Vila Pinheiro the process frames trial planting, species and resource choices, phased care, monitoring and revision. It remains an evolving design in progress, not proof of universal outcomes.

How to use it responsibly

  • Begin with a defined purpose and the people and living systems affected.
  • Use only the tools that improve evidence or judgement.
  • Record assumptions, decisions and responsibility for continuing care.
  • Return to an earlier stage when observation changes the question.
  • Do not transfer a worked example to another place without a new survey.

Authorship and lineage

DREAM means Desired REgeneration through Assisted Migration and is a US Forest Service research framework. Mark D’Cruz created the GODREAMET adaptation for Design 8; the Academy does not imply US Forest Service endorsement.

Sources and provenance

  1. US Forest Service, Desired REgeneration through Assisted Migration (DREAM).
  2. Mark D’Cruz, Design 8 within the Diploma journey.