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The Burtasovo settlement is 80 hectares of land on the banks of the small and clean Poksha River, surrounded by untouched forests, far from civilization.
The settlement that was founded in 2007, is currently home to 30 families. Another 10 plots remain vacant. Residents of Burtasovo are very careful in choosing their neighbors. Anyone can visit the settlement at any time, but a family wishing to move here must be approved by all residents at a general meeting. However, there are not very many requirements for new residents. In Burtasovo they are looking for «people who want to live on their land in harmony with nature, neighbors, and themselves.» The settlers describe their ideology in more detail in an official document, the Charter of settlement. It lists five core ideas:
1. Healthy lifestyle. Health of body, spirit, and soul is important for all settlers. They strive to understand the laws of Nature and live in accordance with them.
2. Traditional family values. Large families are always welcome here. Coexistence of several generations, respect for parents and ancestors are encouraged.
3. Honest work for the benefit of the family, Settlement, and the entire planet.
4. Mutual assistance. A communal way of life and cooperation in achieving common goals are important for the settlers.
5. Study and dissemination of traditional Russian culture.
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Residents of Burtasovo say that they have managed to build a strong community. Any holidays are celebrated here together: New Year, Kupala (solstice), or birthdays. The entire infrastructure of the settlement was created by the combined forces of its inhabitants. For example, at the beginning of this year, a children's center was opened in Burtasovo. Instead of the usual activities and lessons, much attention is paid to creativity and active pursuits: children play a lot of traditional outdoor games and go hiking.
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The children's center is not the only result of the well-coordinated work of the settlers. Residents made a good road from the nearest city on their own, created safe shallow dams on the river so that children could play safely in the water. The pond, located in the center of the settlement, freezes every winter and turns into a skating rink. They also clear it of snow by joint efforts.
All residents of Burtasovo have found a way of earning. Some are engaged in creativity, unite in musical bands, and even tour to other kin's settlements. Most grow or collect organic products: vegetables, berries, or honey. One of the families recently launched a unique business to create fermented «Ivan tea» — a healthy herb that they collect nearby the settlement.
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