​The build took a year and the landscaping is a work in progress, but we are happily installed in our straw bale house.  The rain harvesting system was a source of wonderful drinking and bathing water for almost 5 months. It took a while to realize that the harsh winter of 2024 - when temperatures dropped between 1 - 4 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of ten days - had damaged valves feeding the cisterns. Our motto is to learn from everything, so we are brainstorming options to avoid future headaches.

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On the land, over 70 fruit and nut trees were planted, and soil rebuilding efforts have provided the nutrients they need to grow strong. Food forest and companion plantings have produced two seasons of vegetables that we have enjoyed and shared.

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This spring, we hope to add sheep and chickens to the farm, all the while learning more permaculture approaches to improve the health of our ecosystem and lighten our load as farmers.

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Finally, with the installation of solar panels on the barn roof that are connected to a battery system, we are able to generate electricity when the sun is shining, as well as charge back-up batteries in case of power outages. We may not be fully off-grid, but are definitely reducing our usage of natural resources.

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Progress!