Homestead Strategies

Homestead Strategies
1 Energy – to become energy independent relying on alternative sources and energy conservative
• Establish solar as standard for outside lighting including outbuildings
• Reduce indoor electric consumption each year to minimal, sustained level

2 Water – to rely on natural water for non household needs
• Establish water capture systems on all structures
• Minimize garden/orchard water needs
• Minimize livestock water waste
• Implement grey water plan

3 Food – to produce, utilize and preserve a majority of food needs from organic, non processed, whole ingredients
• Establish food production systems to include vegetable garden, soft fruits, and tree fruits
• Forage and gather locally available native food sources
• Implement a balanced diet based on grown and gathered foods
• Eat in season and preserve surpluses

4 Shelter – to develop and utilize natural materials, processes and the environment as a permaculture based system
• Develop natural areas as wind and weather breaks
• Maintain high levels of domestic and native diversity
• Manage natural areas to maximize their potential as sound ecosystems

5 Garden – to create and maintain organic gardens and orchards
• Establish annual and perennial garden spaces
• Establish soft fruits orchard
• Establish fruit and nut tree orchards and groves

6 Livestock – to manage and improve breeding stock in a self sustaining and nature system
• Select appropriate breeding stock
• Establish breeding system plans for appropriate production and improvement
• Maximize the welfare and health of livestock

7 Transport & Communication – to maintain a consistent level of transport and communication utilizing appropriate technologies
• Develop multiple modes of appropriate transportation
• Utilize integrated digital technologies for communications

8 Safety – to develop appropriate emergency plans and procedures while maintaining a sense of community
• Establish emergency plans for natural, social, and human disasters
• Establish positive and assistive relationships within the community

9 Money – to maintain financial security and utilize local economies
• Maintain contingent fund supplies
• Utilize local businesses when practical
• Periodic review of personal and homestead finances

10 Skills & knowledge – to develop skills and knowledge leading to greater independence and resiliency
• Develop resources for developing lifelong skills and knowledge
• Maintain a desire of independence and resilience
• Establish a learn first, do second philosophy