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SelfSufficiency.csv
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SelfSufficiency.csv
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created_utc,score,domain,id,title,ups,downs,num_comments,permalink,selftext,link_flair_text,over_18,thumbnail,subreddit_id,edited,link_flair_css_class,author_flair_css_class,is_self,name,url,distinguished
1354759683.0,293,i.imgur.com,14cyaa,"Reddit, this year I raised, slaughtered, brined and fried a chicken by myself, here are some photos of my labored fruits. ",383,90,82,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/14cyaa/reddit_this_year_i_raised_slaughtered_brined_and/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/D6dYU5RwqWeFwkX3.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_14cyaa,http://i.imgur.com/uucAb.jpg,
1348533247.0,185,self.SelfSufficiency,10f829,"SolarFlower: An open source, scrap makeable solar energy collector with free animated construction tutorials. Can be made in under a week, for well under $100, anywhere in the world, using basic tools and skills.",206,21,29,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/10f829/solarflower_an_open_source_scrap_makeable_solar/,"[http://www.solarflower.org/](http://www.solarflower.org/)
[Facebook group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/solarflower.org/)
[Youtube channel](https://www.youtube.com/user/SolarflowerOrg)
[SubReddit](http://www.reddit.com/r/SolarFlower/)
Hey there good people of Reddit. This is my project, been working on it for three years now, hoping that with your help it can reach the millions of people in the world who could use a little self built energy autonomy. Thanks.
..
The Solarflower is an open source solar energy collector which tracks the sun automatically through a simple non-electrical mechanism.
It can be made almost anywhere from common recycled and salvaged materials using basic tools and skills, is portable, has no running costs or emissions, and can produce up to kilowatts of power per device.
Depending on available resources it should take one to three unskilled people less than a week to build, and cost well under €$£ 100.
Potential examples of use could include:
~ Electrical production with simple steam turbine/piston, with waste heat going to oven or hot water system.
~ Dome oven with integrated water system for temperature regulation and hot/pasteurized water.
~ Steam distillation of water for removal of chemical, heavy metal, and biological toxins.
~ Medium to large scale food dehydration, processing, and roasting.
~ Conversion of fibrous organic waste into charcoal for energy storage and low smoke cooking, with coproduction of bio-oil and bio-gas.
~ And any other application utilizing heat.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_10f829,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/10f829/solarflower_an_open_source_scrap_makeable_solar/,
1365563450.0,177,youtu.be,1c1em7,"My neighbors and I built front yard community gardens at 19 of the 30 houses on our block, sharing harvests and getting to know each other. Reddit, check out our open-source project, Food is Free.",203,26,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1c1em7/my_neighbors_and_i_built_front_yard_community/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/a541K6q3tNcgTCBu.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1c1em7,http://youtu.be/KlC-4MgfICU,
1366383032.0,167,youtu.be,1cofrl,Soap is an very easy thing to make and I make all my own head-shaving soap. A little basic chemistry & a little art. It's something humans have been making at home for thousands of years until we started to let corporations do it for us. And it's something we're always going to need.,189,22,22,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1cofrl/soap_is_an_very_easy_thing_to_make_and_i_make_all/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/-gvyNXgT2ZzCFxYW.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1cofrl,http://youtu.be/lkswzLmYt7c,
1327432678.0,160,rt.com,outql,"""If passed, ACTA will enforce a global standard for seed patenting, which would wipe out independent, local farmers and make the world completely dependent on the patent owners (read ""big corporations"") for supplies.""",169,9,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/outql/if_passed_acta_will_enforce_a_global_standard_for/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_outql,https://rt.com/news/acta-internet-censor-treaty-591/,
1343222436.0,155,lewrockwell.com,x4oba,Legalize Hemp! End the government's war on this miracle food and fiber plant,192,37,15,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/x4oba/legalize_hemp_end_the_governments_war_on_this/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_x4oba,http://lewrockwell.com/yk/can-hemp-save-the-world.html,
1319543432.0,150,no-patents-on-seeds.org,loank,"Patent on Broccoli will not be revoked. The European Patent Office has just canceled a hearing on the controversial broccoli patent for 26 Oct. Many organisations were planning a protest against patents for plants and animals. The broccoli was derived by normal breeding, and is held by Monsanto.",169,19,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/loank/patent_on_broccoli_will_not_be_revoked_the/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_loank.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_loank,http://www.no-patents-on-seeds.org/en/information/news/patent-broccoli-will-not-be-revoked,
1356907596.0,151,zoddix.blogspot.com,15oy5i,"Self sufficient house, strikingly hobbitesque, for under 5000 dollars. ",180,29,44,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/15oy5i/self_sufficient_house_strikingly_hobbitesque_for/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/tZe9c6eXses7Jl91.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_15oy5i,http://zoddix.blogspot.com/2011/09/how-to-build-house-for-5000.html,
1363268820.0,144,online.wsj.com,1aa7ri,"Self Sufficient Mountain Man vs. the Building Inspector. Boone, NC",160,16,52,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1aa7ri/self_sufficient_mountain_man_vs_the_building/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/lU1W0cSMufcMj15I.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1aa7ri,http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324178904578340850547093268.html,
1363386743.0,137,appropedia.org,1adli4,"Appropedia: It's like Wikipedia, but for Self Sufficiency!",154,17,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1adli4/appropedia_its_like_wikipedia_but_for_self/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/Vyk7gF28Mzm9n5Je.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1adli4,http://www.appropedia.org/Welcome_to_Appropedia,
1343761680.0,132,rt.com,xgp32,Man sentenced to jail for collecting rainwater in Oregon ,206,74,101,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/xgp32/man_sentenced_to_jail_for_collecting_rainwater_in/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/tl_XaDhmu_3s3R7K.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_xgp32,https://rt.com/usa/news/rain-water-harrington-oregon-439/,
1366832863.0,133,fallingfruit.org,1d149c,"Falling Fruit, a crowd sourced map of food to forage in your area",150,17,17,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1d149c/falling_fruit_a_crowd_sourced_map_of_food_to/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/9MMl2zsG2Q-0nHaR.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1d149c,http://fallingfruit.org,
1342471582.0,126,self.SelfSufficiency,wnvrk,Pine Needle Basket - My First Attempt,140,14,23,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/wnvrk/pine_needle_basket_my_first_attempt/,"I just made my first pine needle basket and wanted to share. I collected the extra long needles that fell off of Ponderosa pine at the arboretum here a while back but finally got around to making my first basket. I used store-bought raffia for the stitching but would like to do it with some gathered natural fibers too. Sinew would be nice but I don't think I have the right lifestyle to be scavenging much of that yet. I used a very basic coil basket technique and learned a lot from doing it.
**Some Links**
* I used [this site to help me remember the steps](http://www.nativetech.org/basketry/coilindex.html) when I was starting.
* Here's a [gallery of various attractive pine needle baskets](http://www.primpines.com/gallery.html) I liked looking through.
**The Pictures**
* [Ponderosa Pine Needles in Paper Grocery Bag](http://i.minus.com/iHBTTxq4x1sin.jpg)
* [The point where it starts feeling like a basket](http://i.minus.com/ibhYoCJ57rDu8X.jpg)
* [Side view, finished](http://i.minus.com/ibkez1pm3uBBel.jpg)
* [Top view](http://i.minus.com/ifjTqJGbTVDwN.jpg)
* [Underside](http://i.minus.com/ibhs4pA9Vk3sNz.jpg)
I've already started the next basket using oat straw and some pine needles. I hope to make a mushroom hunting basket out of it for the coming fall.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1342504194.0,,,True,t3_wnvrk,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/wnvrk/pine_needle_basket_my_first_attempt/,
1298329875.0,125,hardcorepreppers.com,fpv84,Large collection of How To PDFs (>500). Emphasis on self sufficiency and modern survivalism. ,133,8,24,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/fpv84/large_collection_of_how_to_pdfs_500_emphasis_on/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_fpv84.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_fpv84,http://www.hardcorepreppers.com/upload/index.php,
1375872430.0,124,dailymail.co.uk,1jvj7w,UK couple told to pull down their hobbit home built without planning permission,159,35,88,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1jvj7w/uk_couple_told_to_pull_down_their_hobbit_home/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/U2c8yo5O0TGjVwio.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1jvj7w,http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2382684/Charlie-Hague-Megan-Williams-told-pull-hobbit-home-entirely-natural-materials.html?ito=feeds-newsxml,
1318422389.0,118,inspirationgreen.com,l9h8l,EarthBag Homes,123,5,14,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/l9h8l/earthbag_homes/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_l9h8l.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_l9h8l,http://www.inspirationgreen.com/earthbag-construction.html,
1311566519.0,114,vanityfair.com,iyvhx,Monsanto’s Harvest of Fear. Monsanto already dominates America’s food chain with its genetically modified seeds. Now it has targeted milk production. Just as frightening as the corporation’s tactics–ruthless legal battles against small farmers–is its decades-long history of toxic contamination.,132,18,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/iyvhx/monsantos_harvest_of_fear_monsanto_already/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_iyvhx.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_iyvhx,http://www.vanityfair.com/politics/features/2008/05/monsanto200805,
1371676153.0,115,theearthgarden.org,1gok2e,The second Pine Needle Basket I've made! Also at the top is my first basket which some of you may remember.,133,18,16,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1gok2e/the_second_pine_needle_basket_ive_made_also_at/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/Yuo_XAyF5_XbFIQE.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1gok2e,http://www.theearthgarden.org/forum/viewtopic.php?p=609#p609,
1376431056.0,109,youtube.com,1kb2z8,Couple grows 6000lbs of food on 1/10 acre every year in LA,166,57,40,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1kb2z8/couple_grows_6000lbs_of_food_on_110_acre_every/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/pujIympw_A3e_Wdi.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1kb2z8,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU6t7s8u0VQ,
1306349042.0,103,chron.com,hjzqc,"Living off the land for 11 years, this man has bucked authorities and prepped for everything - to the point where they don't even bother trying to take him back into custody.",130,27,48,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/hjzqc/living_off_the_land_for_11_years_this_man_has/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_hjzqc.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_hjzqc,http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/7576723.html,
1353665334.0,108,readersupportednews.org,13nuw8,The City That Ended Hunger. A city in Brazil recruited local farmers to help do something U.S. cities have yet to do: end hunger. Forget the hunger games.,124,16,8,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/13nuw8/the_city_that_ended_hunger_a_city_in_brazil/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/-e1Dzs6I8XK_Xvbt.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_13nuw8,http://readersupportednews.org/opinion2/277-75/14662-the-city-that-ended-hunger,
1374132091.0,99,deals.ebay.com,1ijnq7,DIY Household Repairs That Could Save You Thousands,135,36,3,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ijnq7/diy_household_repairs_that_could_save_you/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/jFl7brsQIOCve0Vt.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1ijnq7,http://deals.ebay.com/blog/diy-household-repairs-that-could-save-you-thousands/,
1362024864.0,105,imgur.com,19dki6,Passive Thermosiphon Ice Box: A Refrigerator With No Moving Parts That Collects and Stores the Winter Cold For Use All Year,116,11,24,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/19dki6/passive_thermosiphon_ice_box_a_refrigerator_with/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/37awXG3SmqDQZMt7.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_19dki6,http://imgur.com/a/YaKDz#2,
1339742934.0,104,youtube.com,v333a,"Loren Amelang built a home that would generate free hot water, free power and free heat. 1600 watts of photovoltaic power, solar hot water panels, a sunroom/greenhouse and a solar hot air collector. All controlled by a series of microcontrollers and over 10,000 lines of custom code.",110,6,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/v333a/loren_amelang_built_a_home_that_would_generate/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/3WYdPPSSkNBLveHn.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_v333a,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5rM7QDi_5E,
1303649173.0,105,opensourceecology.org,gw9x7,"A modular, DIY, low-cost, high-performance platform that allows for the easy fabrication of the 50 different Industrial Machines that it takes to build a small, sustainable civilization with modern comforts.",111,6,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gw9x7/a_modular_diy_lowcost_highperformance_platform/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_gw9x7.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_gw9x7,http://opensourceecology.org/,
1359331309.0,103,youtube.com,17e9q9,Medieval Spanish ghost town becomes self-sufficient ecovillage,113,10,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/17e9q9/medieval_spanish_ghost_town_becomes/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/SJBUMIcdXOzFrpuF.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_17e9q9,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91pBFyLWIx4,
1328027990.0,101,lifehacker.com,p4pd3,"Not only can you be self sufficient where you live, but your garden beds can be self-sufficient. Go hugelkultur!",111,10,12,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/p4pd3/not_only_can_you_be_self_sufficient_where_you/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/QqXtLNuHZxzoPKYa.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_p4pd3,http://lifehacker.com/5880237/hugelkultur-can-create-irrigation+free-garden-beds,
1372566776.0,99,thebuildingblox.com,1hclcv,How houses in Bermuda are built to specifically collect rain water and withstand huricaines.,113,14,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1hclcv/how_houses_in_bermuda_are_built_to_specifically/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/T8Lt5IfhNrSkGjWj.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1hclcv,http://www.thebuildingblox.com/bermuda-roofs/,
1320761039.0,97,ted.com,m4scb,Ted talk: Global village construction set (open source blueprints),107,10,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/m4scb/ted_talk_global_village_construction_set_open/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/Wc2XCUFILb2GOKwM.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_m4scb,http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/marcin_jakubowski.html,
1370282430.0,99,imgur.com,1flepo,my boat rooftop veg garden!,121,22,16,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1flepo/my_boat_rooftop_veg_garden/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/7fi0BMX25XkI_bCa.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1flepo,http://imgur.com/a/Wa6jQ#0,
1349990177.0,97,self.SelfSufficiency,11bwna,How we built our earth sheltered home,115,18,31,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/11bwna/how_we_built_our_earth_sheltered_home/,"I have been lurking this reddit for while and figured I would contribute, my wife and I have been on a mission for self-sufficiency for 15 + years. We were finally able to build our dream home 3 years ago, any questions fire away
http://thehomesteadingboards.com/forum/general-homesteading-group2/construction-and-diy-projects-forum5/our-earth-sheltered-home-thread673",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_11bwna,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/11bwna/how_we_built_our_earth_sheltered_home/,
1328210912.0,102,youtube.com,p8307,Some very frank discussion on the least number of acres it takes to feed one person without external inputs,148,46,21,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/p8307/some_very_frank_discussion_on_the_least_number_of/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/q_MbH9SjoBOvIQkj.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_p8307,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8zNfiNA-3A,
1325999228.0,96,treehugger.com,o7m9w,Seeking a little privacy in a crowded world? All you need is the coat on your back.,104,8,10,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o7m9w/seeking_a_little_privacy_in_a_crowded_world_all/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/xek75NjbvsDiqnaT.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_o7m9w,http://www.treehugger.com/sustainable-fashion/carry-your-house-on-your-back-with-vessel-by-justin-gargasz.html,
1315011223.0,99,plantingshadetrees.wordpress.com,k32ny,Sick of your refrigerator running up your electric bill? Make a zeer!,109,10,32,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/k32ny/sick_of_your_refrigerator_running_up_your/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_k32ny.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_k32ny,http://plantingshadetrees.wordpress.com/2011/03/10/no-fridge-no-problem-make-your-own-use-a-zeer/,
1348539336.0,93,i.imgur.com,10femg,Nothing beats it.,106,13,25,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/10femg/nothing_beats_it/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/u4jAfp3UcWwo8ujb.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_10femg,http://i.imgur.com/mqIUt.jpg,
1297952141.0,99,youtube.com,fn78s,"""Splitting wood: we've been doing it wrong."" (found on r/gardening, I'm totally going to be using this method from now on!)",114,15,21,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/fn78s/splitting_wood_weve_been_doing_it_wrong_found_on/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_fn78s.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_fn78s,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRuk_jd1f8M,
1366228642.0,94,littlecountryhouse.blogspot.com,1cjzdc,This is what my fiance and I are doing on our homestead to become more self reliant.,107,13,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1cjzdc/this_is_what_my_fiance_and_i_are_doing_on_our/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/0XVM92xy40kTxiIO.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1cjzdc,http://www.littlecountryhouse.blogspot.com/,
1363205384.0,97,vice.com,1a8jld,Future of food? /This Man Thinks He Never Has to Eat Again,118,21,76,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1a8jld/future_of_food_this_man_thinks_he_never_has_to/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/BMe1bFtCfP0_9wMk.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1a8jld,http://www.vice.com/en_uk/read/rob-rhinehart-no-longer-requires-food,
1308540549.0,96,bangordailynews.com,i40np,Our off-grid shipping container home featured in the newspaper!,99,3,54,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/i40np/our_offgrid_shipping_container_home_featured_in/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_i40np,http://bangordailynews.com/2011/06/18/news/have-container-will-settle-couple-homesteading-in-ellsworth-woods-put-a-new-twist-on-going-off-the-grid/,
1355725777.0,94,lowtechmagazine.com,14zdih,How to Make Everything Ourselves: Open Modular Hardware,109,15,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/14zdih/how_to_make_everything_ourselves_open_modular/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/XQVUL6M12S913oBq.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_14zdih,http://www.lowtechmagazine.com/2012/12/how-to-make-everything-ourselves-open-modular-hardware.html,
1318402249.0,95,kickstarter.com,l9b0w,The Global Village Construction Set needs our help! Please donate to their Kickstarter fund-raiser. The ultimate in self sufficiency: DIY civilization!,101,6,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/l9b0w/the_global_village_construction_set_needs_our/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_l9b0w.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_l9b0w,http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/622508883/global-village-construction-set,
1361894062.0,90,phys.org,199i19,Tapping drinking water from the air,101,11,9,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/199i19/tapping_drinking_water_from_the_air/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/Ql9APS0xP2FLuw-7.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_199i19,http://phys.org/news/2013-02-lima-billboard.html,
1291834412.0,95,amazon.com,eifm4,"Let's try this again... I lived out of this book for a year (after my husband moved me out to a farm with no notice). All of her recipes, canning instructions, chicken raising and the like really work (even for a city girl who didn't want to be there). Plus, we managed to do it all on $500 a month.",100,5,34,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/eifm4/lets_try_this_again_i_lived_out_of_this_book_for/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_eifm4.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_eifm4,http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1570615535/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=0912365951&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=07BV25DYYVFRHB9JZTGV,
1344182578.0,87,naturalsociety.com,xpumn,"Monsanto’s GMO Crops Ravage US, USDA Ignores Dangers.",132,45,16,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/xpumn/monsantos_gmo_crops_ravage_us_usda_ignores_dangers/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/A5C93YDM5SUjGQxO.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_xpumn,http://naturalsociety.com/monsantos-gmo-crops-ravage-us-usda-ignores-dangers/,
1343366269.0,90,self.SelfSufficiency,x8fb1,"Off-grid for more than a decade, and still loving it!",108,18,88,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/x8fb1/offgrid_for_more_than_a_decade_and_still_loving_it/,"My wife and I have been living off the grid for about 12 years, now. We have 2 sons, one is 4, the other is 1.
We built our homestead from scratch, house and all. This is the second off-grid homestead we've built in the last decade.
Our power comes from solar and wind. Our water is from rain catchment. We raise most of our food from gardens, chickens, rabbits, pigs, etc.
Let me know if you have any questions or comments.
You can follow our experiences here: http://velacreations.com
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_x8fb1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/x8fb1/offgrid_for_more_than_a_decade_and_still_loving_it/,
1314906988.0,93,biolitestove.com,k1ng0,This stove burns wood clean and takes the excess energy generated to charge batteries or a cellphone. ,101,8,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/k1ng0/this_stove_burns_wood_clean_and_takes_the_excess/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_k1ng0.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_k1ng0,http://www.biolitestove.com/BioLite.html,
1366681975.0,90,act.watchdog.net,1cwnqw,Tell EPC Member States: Dont Let Monsanto Buy Up Mother Earth!,126,36,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1cwnqw/tell_epc_member_states_dont_let_monsanto_buy_up/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/qRHEfddrRqx2yn5H.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1cwnqw,http://act.watchdog.net/petitions/2739?ls=u-3r0uYTuEo,
1318798021.0,90,foodfreedom.wordpress.com,ledmy,Wisconsin Judge Rules No Right to Own a Cow or Drink Its Milk,115,25,39,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ledmy/wisconsin_judge_rules_no_right_to_own_a_cow_or/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_ledmy.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ledmy,http://foodfreedom.wordpress.com/2011/10/03/wisconsin-judge-rules-no-right-to-own-a-cow-or-drink-its-milk/,
1327486501.0,83,insteading.com,ovwgj,Public Garden Plots Put Town On Path To Food Independence,90,7,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ovwgj/public_garden_plots_put_town_on_path_to_food/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/g3FfY2zhWyhs_dGm.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ovwgj,http://insteading.com/2012/01/24/public-garden-plots-put-town-on-path-to-food-self-sufficiency/,
1356844631.0,82,self.SelfSufficiency,15nslz,"My only goal is to design and build a low-impact, sustainable forest house within the next 10 years of my life. ",96,14,35,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/15nslz/my_only_goal_is_to_design_and_build_a_lowimpact/,"Looking for any helpful/relevant books, resources, tips or personal experiences in regards to design, building and materials, finding/purchasing land, lifestyle etc.
EDIT: Serious thanks to each and every person who leaves feedback here!! ",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1356879598.0,,,True,t3_15nslz,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/15nslz/my_only_goal_is_to_design_and_build_a_lowimpact/,
1334273918.0,84,self.SelfSufficiency,s71gr,Are there ANY at home jobs you can do that are not a scam and yield some kind of return?,95,11,90,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/s71gr/are_there_any_at_home_jobs_you_can_do_that_are/,"It is so hard to decipher which of these ventures are worth it. Medical Billing from home? Running your own middleman microsite? Do any of these yield any somewhat decent return ($1000 month?)
I want to help someone become more independent but they have limitations but I believe they can start with something like this",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_s71gr,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/s71gr/are_there_any_at_home_jobs_you_can_do_that_are/,
1303225076.0,78,self.SelfSufficiency,gtmsx,"Has anybody else tried farmsteading and come to reject the entire notion of ""self"" - sufficiency?",89,11,83,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gtmsx/has_anybody_else_tried_farmsteading_and_come_to/,"Long story short: began creation of a mini-farm from raw land and realized that I was *more* dependent on others and other external inputs than when I started the project. What I noticed is that my inputs changed from the grocery store to the seed catalogs, the farm stores, the other farmers for hay, livestock and knowledge exchange and the big box stores for construction materials and fencing. And, then I was constantly in need of customers to purchase surplus eggs, produce and livestock to fund the whole thing (which operated at enormous loss the whole time, even though profit was never a goal, just a necessity). Far from being ""simple living"" this required a very complex set of interdependencies that literally required a diverse community.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_gtmsx,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gtmsx/has_anybody_else_tried_farmsteading_and_come_to/,
1372771330.0,78,littlecountryhouse.blogspot.com,1hhtnb,"I finally got around to building a worm bin. Check out my Vermiculture system located in my utility room. No smell, no mess.",94,16,24,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1hhtnb/i_finally_got_around_to_building_a_worm_bin_check/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/U4Dzdlkgf49BPpgL.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1hhtnb,http://www.littlecountryhouse.blogspot.com/2013/06/vermicomposting.html,
1253364461.0,78,survivaltopics.com,9m4ox,"When you have to build a cooking fire outdoors: the
Dakota Fire Hole is safer, burns hotter, uses less
fuel, produces less smoke and visible light, and
provides a more stable cooking surface compared
to typical camp fires",85,7,17,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/9m4ox/when_you_have_to_build_a_cooking_fire_outdoors/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_9m4ox.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_9m4ox,http://www.survivaltopics.com/survival/the-dakota-fire-hole/,
1339452949.0,77,ourcrazysociety.com,uwv8s,"Selling my solar-powered camper, live, cook, sleep in it",88,11,17,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/uwv8s/selling_my_solarpowered_camper_live_cook_sleep_in/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_uwv8s,http://www.ourcrazysociety.com/listing-local.html,
1351048857.0,74,tumblr.com,11zjuw,"The Smear Campaign Against Organic Food-The Stanford Study. ""Mega-corporate global genetically modifying poisoner of food, Cargill, was recently exposed as being behind a so-called “Stanford study” purporting the negligence of benefits offered by organic foods.""",133,59,19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/11zjuw/the_smear_campaign_against_organic_foodthe/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/nq_XCDVXdJHVYtZp.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_11zjuw,http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/organic-food,
1321969281.0,77,youtube.com,mlfis,The End of Farming in Iraq: US Military Impact,90,13,15,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/mlfis/the_end_of_farming_in_iraq_us_military_impact/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/-HJAZ817u-nEtb8O.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_mlfis,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43rv7yl2tUY,
1304222179.0,70,homesteadgardenandpantry.com,h17n8,How to preserve eggs for 6-9 months without electricity - The Water Glass Method,88,18,22,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/h17n8/how_to_preserve_eggs_for_69_months_without/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_h17n8.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_h17n8,http://homesteadgardenandpantry.com/agrarian-life/self-reliance/preserving-eggs-with-water-glass/,
1366610414.0,74,youtu.be,1cukmv,How to build a wicking bed garden out of free materials from Food is Free Project. I didn't water my first one for 4 weeks in 100+ degree weather.,85,11,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1cukmv/how_to_build_a_wicking_bed_garden_out_of_free/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/E3lXgNaef3zhhoJX.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1cukmv,http://youtu.be/TEgnK-veV4Q,
1346104390.0,75,online.wsj.com,yxcja,"For Spain's Jobless, Time Equals Money. As Europe's leaders struggle with a five-year-old economic crunch, young Spaniards are increasingly embracing bottom-up self-help initiatives - barter markets, local currencies, and charity networks that repurpose discarded goods - to cope.
",83,8,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/yxcja/for_spains_jobless_time_equals_money_as_europes/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/92npdmjiHdUQWFmP.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_yxcja,http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443404004577577352038273664.html,
1341174401.0,77,online.wsj.com,vw3tb,"People who scythe put up with a lot of Grim Reaper cracks. Then again, long-handled, crescent-bladed scythes don't use gas, don't get hot, don't make noise, do make for exercise, and do cut grass.",87,10,10,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/vw3tb/people_who_scythe_put_up_with_a_lot_of_grim/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/YiOUgz3HsyJPY3lz.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_vw3tb,http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304782404577490583379647566.html?mod=WSJ_hp_editorsPicks_1,
1324597949.0,69,youtu.be,nn9cs,"Just caught this over at /r/documentaries and
thought you'd all enjoy a year in the life of a
Russian trapper in the Taiga. [1h30m]",76,7,19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/nn9cs/just_caught_this_over_at_rdocumentaries_and/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/jxPcyVNX5X78DOIs.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_nn9cs,http://youtu.be/V26jauHZgtw,
1323727923.0,69,npr.org,na5br,Who Are The Young Farmers Of 'Generation Organic'?,77,8,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/na5br/who_are_the_young_farmers_of_generation_organic/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/I9suRLiINDSTBK__.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_na5br,http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2011/12/09/143459793/who-are-the-young-farmers-of-generation-organic,
1373382085.0,71,self.SelfSufficiency,1hxrro,Inheritance: 100 acres of mainly forest,79,8,83,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1hxrro/inheritance_100_acres_of_mainly_forest/,"Recently I have acquired through the family the acquisition of 100 acres of mainly forested terrain on the island of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
I was interested in turning this old family property of ours into some sort of self-sustaining and self-paying (in terms of paying for itself the property tax) country estate. I am very curious in sustainable living as well as in innovative and creative techniques. Is there any suggestions people have on what I should do or develop?
I am also a recent university graduate and not much capital available for any big infrastructure investments - just so you have a general idea of where I am coming from and what I am capable of.
Interested in hearing from you!
-----
edit: http://www.reddit.com/r/SettlementofWilds/ - Making a subreddit for just this whole affair. Perhaps it may be best to organize and such. People who would be interested in perhaps partaking in some sort of settling experiment/community etc.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1373548553.0,,,True,t3_1hxrro,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1hxrro/inheritance_100_acres_of_mainly_forest/,
1362707409.0,69,gunsandammo.info,19vv5f,Guns101: Gun Basics - understanding the basic components of a gun,101,32,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/19vv5f/guns101_gun_basics_understanding_the_basic/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/IEevESkoF-8_Y5Mm.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_19vv5f,http://www.gunsandammo.info/guns/guns-101,
1355418821.0,73,survivallife.com,14sjyv,Basic Skill (Commonly Forgotten About) that Could be as Important to Survival as the Food in Your Pantry...,91,18,12,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/14sjyv/basic_skill_commonly_forgotten_about_that_could/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/jx6a5EKAq1gIFrXJ.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_14sjyv,http://www.survivallife.com/2012/12/13/sew-what/,
1353792954.0,70,readersupportednews.org,13qaes,Mexican Officials: Allowing GM Corn Will Devastate Crops.,94,24,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/13qaes/mexican_officials_allowing_gm_corn_will_devastate/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/-e1Dzs6I8XK_Xvbt.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_13qaes,http://readersupportednews.org/opinion2/271-38/14695-mexico-officials-allowing-gm-corn-will-devastate-crops,
1310834438.0,73,youtube.com,ird0v,I'm building my own Earthship. Here's my first vid about it.,81,8,60,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ird0v/im_building_my_own_earthship_heres_my_first_vid/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_ird0v.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ird0v,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOBKVbmnz98,
1317065560.0,70,self.SelfSufficiency,ks3vn,A few words about my brother,96,26,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ks3vn/a_few_words_about_my_brother/,"This is a throw away. I honestly don't expect this to get much attention as it will be boring and a wall of text, but I find it therapeutic to type it out for the simple reason someone will learn about my brother. I have a hard time talking to people about personal things in real life and I just need to get it out.
My brother was an amazing man. He was the older brother that was just better than you at everything. He was a troll before the term was created; when I was very young he was watching college football on TV and I didn't know any of the teams playing so I asked him what league it was. He told me it was the Gay Football league. For the next year or so I believed it.
Our mother passed away in 1994 when I was 12 and he was 18. My father was not really in the picture since he was working a lot. My bro was really the father figure I looked up to. I had _so_ much respect for him, he could do no wrong and I would do anything for him. He clashed with my father around the same time and left the house to live in his car. He lived in his car out of spite and while working for a Deli. Any time I needed him he was there for me despite family issues. He's what drove me during tough life decisions as he was the ""fuck it, and fuck you"" type of guy and got shit done. For better or worse, it was his mindset. I remember some mafia type people coming to our home saying he owed them 20,000 dollars for gambling debts when he was only 16-17. Even then I knew he wasn't right for putting himself in that position, but I certainly respected that amount of balls he had at the time.
After living in his car and friends couches for a couple years he bought a house on his own at the age of 20. He busted his ass and converted his basement into an apartment and rented it out. He worked so much and finally bought his own deli. By the time he was in his late 20's he ran and partially owned 3 Deli's. During this time I was moving up the ranks in IT, trying to achieve his stature to no avail.
I got into legal trouble around this time and I called him asking for money, something that I thought I would never do as I grew up and was trying to be better than him. But I needed him. I told him I was fucked and needed $5,000. Without missing a beat he said to stop by his house after work and he'll have it in cash. At this point in life I knew he just had something I didn't, no matter how stubborn and motivated I was. I was defeated and proud at the same time.
Soon after this, his pregnant, longtime girlfriend was diagnose with Melanoma cancer. It broke him. She had the baby and then started to really succumb to the disease. She started growing tumors all over her body over night. Some on her face and head, it really showed me personally how vicious cancer can be. My brother was phased by all this, especially when she said ""don't let me die"" when she gained consciousness on her death bed. Being the guy he is, he looked everywhere and wanted to fly her to mexico for some strange treatment while he was raising his new born child. She died, and he wasn't the same.
My brother started taking and abusing pain medication after this that wasn't subscribed to him. He abused it and wasn't the same person anymore. He still managed all the things he needed to do, and worked 7 days a week while raising his child, but I could tell he wasn't the same person. He was severely depressed and didn't admit it. It was part of his ""boss"" personality. I could honestly see the pain he was going through, but he just kept on going. Some people call in sick to work because they have the option, but my brother didn't - it was his life.
I got into a stupid argument with him some months later and I selfishly told him ""You're dead to me"", two weeks later after not speaking with him I received a phone call that he was dead. My brother, idol, and inspiration is dead and those were my last words to him. Today is the one year anniversary of his death and I thank anyone for reading this. It really helps me by typing it all out. ",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_ks3vn,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ks3vn/a_few_words_about_my_brother/,
1311271392.0,70,self.SelfSufficiency,iw11n,I'm thinking of starting a self-sufficiency program for teenagers which is similar to the boy scouts wilderness survival class. ,74,4,29,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/iw11n/im_thinking_of_starting_a_selfsufficiency_program/,"The title pretty much says it. I am putting together an outline and I was wondering what wonderful suggestions you might have.
Edit: I want to thank everyone for their valuable input. This has been tremendously helpful. I am particularly excited about the response from adults who want to participate. I've added a second adult-based program to my proposal. BTW, I host a cooperative self-sustainability discussion group in Denver if any of you are interested in joining up.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_iw11n,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/iw11n/im_thinking_of_starting_a_selfsufficiency_program/,
1295741014.0,67,self.SelfSufficiency,f79uz,I lived in a cave for over 3 straight months. AMA,86,19,57,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/f79uz/i_lived_in_a_cave_for_over_3_straight_months_ama/,"Howdy SelfSufficiency -
I’m new to the self-sufficiency gig, and just not too long ago discovered this awesome subreddit. Anyway, I have decided to share a small story with you and answer your questions as well as ask for any tips or constructive criticism you have for similar future endeavors.
In the fall of 2009 and the spring to early summer 2010, I lived in a cave. The longest consecutive stint was a bit over three months. I can’t tell you exactly where, but it’s in a place in the U.S. with lots of BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, which basically means zero amenities and people are allowed to camp for extended periods of time. I found a sweet spot that was secluded, private, and had plenty of open land surrounding it. Every great once in a while somebody would wander into my camp, usually lost while looking for a nearby hiking trail. At the longest stretch, I went 14 days straight without seeing or interacting with another human being.
Now, I was not self-sufficient while in the cave. I did not live off the land. In fact, the land I was on would have been incredibly difficult to live off of, and I’m a noob. I packed in nearly everything I needed. This was more of a ‘have an ultra-alone head-space adventure’ than being a modern-day wilderness pioneer. However, I think the experience may pique the interest of some people here.
My cave was pretty modest in dimension, with enough floor space to sleep maybe 10 people, if they were fairly comfortable with each other. I built a stone wall across the front to keep weather at bay. The wall includes a bowed-out portion for a fire pit. The roof of the cave sloped up and outward, so smoke from my fires generally ventilated pretty well. There is a big ‘shelf’ of stone in the back of the cave, perfect for storing my stuff at waist-height. I could just stand straight up in the middle of the cave and I’m a bit over six feet tall.
The cave faces due east, with a gorgeous, expansive view of part of a national park and a mountain chain of ~12,000 ft peaks about 25 miles away. The easterly exposure means I was protected from nearly all weather events and caught the first rays of sun in the morning. That was nice, especially on the multiple nights that the temperature dropped to nearly 0 F with snow on the ground. A modest fire was enough to keep the cave warm enough unless the wind was wailing from the east.
Above the cave is a mesa top that is roughly 5 acres. The mesa complex is surrounded by ~50 acres of unimpacted land. Besides a nearby hiking trail, there isn’t anything around for miles. The cave is about 4 miles from a gas station, which I went to occasionally to get drinking water as there wasn’t a dependable source near the cave. The nearest town is about a 30 minute drive away.
I packed in lots of dry food, most of which were grains and beans. I had black beans, garbanzos, corn, quinoa, lentils, couscous, and a few spices. I am a tech nerd, so I couldn’t do completely without my gadgets. I had a portable 26w solar panel and a 54whr battery to recharge all my camp batteries (i.e. for headlamps, electric lantern, mp3 player, a small portable speaker, and a cellphone for emergencies). I slept in a sleeping bag on a camp pad in the cave. I spent my days wandering the area, writing, drawing, playing a didgeridoo, playing with poi, day dreaming (LOOOTS of daydreaming), and wondering about my place in this world as well as humanity’s place in the world.
Since then, I have been living in a house in the small town 30 minutes from the cave. I have managed to collect a massive compost pile that I think now and again of hauling to the cave and dumping somewhere nearby and creating a little oasis of good soil for a small garden. But that would be altering the land in a way that may be illegal, and certainly disrespectful. I imagine I’ll donate the compost to a gardening neighbor, but it will hurt to see it go.
I want to live in the cave, or something similar, again, but for much, much longer and much closer to actually being self-sufficient. I think I’ll have to go somewhere less harsh where I can at least find a source of potable water and some local things to eat. I hope to go armed with a few very basic tools and supplies and with lots of knowledge of local flora and fauna and try to make do as well as I can.
Anyway, that’s my intro. Ask, critique, or comment away!
**EDIT:** Forgot to mention that I played around with fasting while in the cave. I fasted for a total of 15 days in a 45 day period. I did it in three 5 day fasts. It made shit really weird.
**Tl;dr: I lived in a cave for a while**
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_f79uz,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/f79uz/i_lived_in_a_cave_for_over_3_straight_months_ama/,
1359066044.0,68,amy-newnostalgia.blogspot.com,177t1o,26 tips and tricks to a simple life: from stripped screws to brown apples. ,93,25,15,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/177t1o/26_tips_and_tricks_to_a_simple_life_from_stripped/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/HVE4JkefwA56S-PL.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_177t1o,http://amy-newnostalgia.blogspot.com/2011/12/26-tips-and-tricks-to-simplify-life.html,
1356236421.0,67,youtube.com,15b99r,Off The Grid | A Family's Journey To Building An Off The Grid Home,82,15,14,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/15b99r/off_the_grid_a_familys_journey_to_building_an_off/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/ri2m95ImGMsKCOQ4.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_15b99r,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjxHQrTm5f8,
1349375666.0,70,daviddarling.info,10y67l,Has anybody ever tried a Pellet Stove? What did you think?,77,7,54,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/10y67l/has_anybody_ever_tried_a_pellet_stove_what_did/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/4jIAWyZaR5HNY3NH.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_10y67l,http://www.daviddarling.info/images/pellet_stove_inside.jpg,
1347487420.0,70,idealhomegarden.com,zserz,"You would need 2,350 square feet of land to grow all your own fruits, veggies, livestock & grains for a year.",149,79,48,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/zserz/you_would_need_2350_square_feet_of_land_to_grow/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/zo0YKe-AuE6nMnqD.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_zserz,http://www.idealhomegarden.com/home-improvement/living-off-the-grid/,
1325836900.0,66,self.SelfSufficiency,o574n,"You just got 10 acres. What do you do first? What are
your short/long term goals for the place?",73,7,79,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o574n/you_just_got_10_acres_what_do_you_do_first_what/,"I feel like many people on this subreddit don't have their land yet. I am interested what people want to do with it once they get it?
For those who have land what are your goals for the place in the future?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_o574n,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o574n/you_just_got_10_acres_what_do_you_do_first_what/,
1360281011.0,68,metal-gaia.com,183ijj,An Interview With a Mountain Man and Native American Woman Living Off the Grid (Including a Discussion of Weed Legalization and Gun Laws),88,20,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/183ijj/an_interview_with_a_mountain_man_and_native/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/J3dmb3zi5ZlcoRhU.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_183ijj,http://metal-gaia.com/2013/02/07/mountain-man-and-healer-woman/,
1330894387.0,69,self.SelfSufficiency,qhk54,Farmstead tool list,76,7,27,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/qhk54/farmstead_tool_list/,"This is a list based on what I once used to use multiple times over the course of a few years to clear land, make a market garden, remodel a house and begin preparing a homestead. Not all is essential, but this gives a good overall representation. Note that nearly all protective gear and nearly all hand tools are considered vital. As much as possible tools are multifunctional. Those that aren’t have no ready substitute. Tool lists don’t normally include clothing and protective gear, but it’s so important that I want to start right out with it. It’s extremely difficult to concentrate on anything else if one is too hot, too cold or wet and cold. And it’s impossible to concentrate if injured, so safety gear is an absolute necessity.
**Protective Gear and Clothing**
* Work gloves for all seasons and conditions
* Safety Glasses, tinted for use as sunglasses as well as clear or amber – WEAR THEM!
* Hard hat for any activity involving lifting weights over one’s head or cutting trees – This may seem overly cautious, but I knocked myself out the first day I used a tee-post driver, and have come close in other situations due to extreme exhaustion, carelessness or the whim of the way trees and limbs fell.
* Dust Masks and/or HEPA filter masks (if working around mold, excessive dust, sawdust, sheetrock dust, toxic fumes etc.)
* Sturdy Work Boots
* Waterproof Muck Boots, neoprene preferred over PVC
* Insulated Coveralls and/or insulated bibs
* Hats for all seasons for sun protection, rain protection and warmth
* Raingear suitable for working in any condition, (i.e., vented and breathable)
* Insulated Farm Chore Coat, abrasion resistant
* Canvas duck cloth or denim pants and jackets for abrasion resistance
* Lightweight long sleeved shirts and pants for sun protection in summer
**Human powered tools**:
**Axes**
* Felling Axe, 3.5-4lb, full sized handle
* Splitting Maul, 12lb wedge shaped
* Kindling Axe or Hatchet, 1.5-1.75 lb. ¾ or ½ sized handle (tier 2)
* Axe sharpening hone
* Mill Bastard sharpening file
* Landscape Axe, axe on one side, light cutter mattock on other, (tier 2)
* Sledge Hammer - 8lb.
* Splitting Wedges (tier 2 if using splitting maul)
* Fro (safer alternative to hatchet for splitting kindling)
* Crowbar, large 3ft.
* Timber jack, (a.k.a. Cant Hook Peavey w/stand), Peavey Mfr.
* Chains
* 15-20’ log chain with hooks
* 10’ high tensile 5/16” chain w/ a pair of screw type links rated to capacity of chain
* Tee-post driver, two handled
* Post hole digger, clam shell type, fiberglass or steel handled
* Bypass lopers, 3x geared preferred
* Saws
* Bow Saws, 12” & 21” (small one doubles as hacksaw)
* Pruning Saws (tier 2)
* Pole Saws, extendable w/ pruner
* Shovels
* Digging, round point, steel or fiberglass handle
* Materials Transfer, square point (tier 2)
* Garden Spade, rectangular, English style (tier 2)
* Trowels, narrow transplanting and wider scoop
* Mini-shovel (a.k.a. survival shovel w/fixed blade & 2ft handle)(tier 2)
* Garden Forks
* Garden Fork, steel handled
* Manure Fork (tier 2)
* Pitch Fork (tier 2)
* Mattocks
* 5lb. Cutter mattock
* one-hand lightweight, short-shafted landscape mattock and cultivator (tier 2)
* Hoes
* Grub Hoe, 4.5” and/or 6”, Bellosotto, heavy duty
* Weeding Hoe, 5-6” lightweight, long handled, sharpened
* Common Garden Hoe 6”(tier 2 if using others, tier 1 if it’s the only hoe available)
* Rogue Hoe, 6-7” fiberglass handled (tier 2 if have grub hoe, works in lieu of grub hoe and common hoe)
* Triangular or Warren Hoe (tier 2 if have weeding hoe)
* Scuffle Hoe (tier 2 if have weeding hoe)
* Rakes
* Garden Rake, steel tined bow rake
* Landscape Rake, 2-3ft. aluminum head (tier 2)
* Ladders
* Stepstool
* 6ft. stepladder, fiberglass, heavy duty preferred
* 20-24ft. extension ladder, fiberglass, medium duty preferred
* 8ft. stepladder, fiberglass medium duty preferred (tier 2)
* Levers and Pullers
* Ratcheting cable puller (a.k.a. “Come-A-Long), 1 ton
* Hi-Lift Jack
* Bottle Jack (tier 2)
* Jack Stands – could be blocks of wood
* Tie Downs
* Ratcheting, heavy duty
* Bungee cords, assorted, 12”, 24”, 36”, 48”
* Rope, nylon braided, 25’
* Wheel Barrows, Garden Carts - vital, get/make good quality
* Buckets, lugs, totes – 5g buckets, plastic tubs etc., can’t have too many
**Hand tools**:
* Hammer
* Claw hammer, 16oz.
* Framing hammer, 22oz. Rip claw
* Drilling hammer, (a.k.a. Hand Drill 1-2lb.)
* Half hatchet, half hatchet, half hammer Dangerous, but useful (tier 2)
* Flat Pry bar, cat’s paw nail puller
* Utility Knife w/200 replacement blades
* Swiss Army Knife
* Screwdrivers
* All-in-one, universal, changeable bit tips
* Nut drivers, long hollow shaft
* Precision, rotating handle
* Bull driver, slotted, large
* Pliers
* Needle nosed pliers
* Channel locks
* Diagonal pliers (wire cutters)
* Wire strippers
* Crimping pliers (a.k.a. “Stakon tool”)
* Fence Pliers
* End nippers (a.k.a. nail pullers/cutters)
* Lineman’s pliers (a.k.a. “Kleins”)
* Measuring tapes, 25’x1” and 100yd. Nylon reel tape
* Levels - torpedo, *2ft and 4ft.
* Brace & Bits – (old fashioned human powered drill with auger bits)
* Wrenches
* Adjustable
* Open end and box end
* Ratcheting
* Pipe wrenches, 12”, 18”
* Socket Set w/ratchet handles
* Allen (hex) and Torx wrenches
* Files and Rasps
* Mill Bastard File
* Combination flat/half-round file/rasp
* Combination sharpening stone, 12”
* Chisels
* Wood Chisels, ¼”, ½”, ¾”, 1”
* Cold Chisels
* Masonry Chisels
* Punches
* Drift punch set
Center punch set (tier 2)
* Scissors and Snips
* All purpose garden and game shears
* Tin snips, Aviation style
* Saws
* Carpenter’s
* Hacksaw
* Multi-meter – capable of accurately and safely reading volts, ohms, amps, both AC/DC
* Grease gun w/lube cartridges
* Powered tools
* Chainsaws, 16” bar, med. wt. with gas, oil, bar oil and several spare chains
* Chainsaw file sharpening system
* Powered Hand Tools
* Circular saw, 7.25”
* Reciprocating saw
* Jig saw
* Mitre saw
* Electric Drills
* 3/8” heavy duty w/full drill bit assortment
* ½” industrial drill with hole saw set and auger bits (tier 2)
*Extension cords, heavy duty, all weather, 50ft and 100ft.
* Fully Equipped Kitchen
* Pressure Canner, 7qt. Capable minimum
* Freezer
* Dutch Ovens, cast iron, 5qt and 7qt.
* Skillets, cast iron assorted sizes, 10”, 12” and 15”
* Kitchen knives, assorted, high quality
* Dehydrator
**Extremely desirable and useful, but may or may not be technically necessary - YMMV**
* Utility Trailer, 4x8 w/tilt bed preferred (tier 1 if no pickup, tier 2 if pickup truck)
* Tractor, compact diesel 4WD with front end loader, 3pt hitch and implements
* Rotary mower attachment (a.k.a. Bush-Hog or Belly Mower)
* Bucket for front-end loader
* Fork lifts for front-end loader
* Auger(s), 3 pt. Hitch, 6” and 8” bits
* Scrape Blade or Box Blade
* Tillers
* Rear tined, shaft driven, forward rotation, (not counter rotating!)
* PTO driven, tractor pulled (tier 2, but darned nice)
* Mini-cultivator (tier 2)
* Weed Trimmers (tier 2)
* Lawn mowers (tier 2)
* Generator (tier 2 if power is available on site, tier 1 until it is available!)
* Air Compressor w/ tools: nailer, impact wrench, ratchet, *tire inflator, etc (tier 2)
Below this line is some stuff that I thought would be more useful than it’s really proved to be. Buyer beware.
_____________________________________________________________________
Scythes, Sickles, Billhooks, Sling Blades (all completely optional) (tier 2 as long as there’s cheap gas)
Brush Axe (tier 2)
Pick or Pickaxe, (tier 2, optional in most of SE US unless busting concrete)
Digging Bar, 5ft. (tier 2 unless large rocks are a problem or one needs to bust concrete)
Broad Fork (aka U-Bar Digger) (tier 2 at least until the garden is well established)
Machetes,
short stout (Ontario), and two-handed w/extended handle, (i.e. Cold Steel) (tier 2)
Earthway Garden Seeder, two wheeled, with discs (tier 2)
Earthway High Wheeled cultivator with plow and stirrup hoe (tier 2)
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_qhk54,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/qhk54/farmstead_tool_list/,
1321837887.0,68,farmsteadmeatsmith.com,mjknv,I learned more about butchering a hog here than I did in all the years I helped butcher them at home. ,80,12,10,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/mjknv/i_learned_more_about_butchering_a_hog_here_than_i/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/WjKjapfx3GV43LH8.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_mjknv,http://www.farmsteadmeatsmith.com/,
1320068082.0,65,self.SelfSufficiency,lv4pi,"Alexia Allen: she lives so frugally she doesn't have to work any more; ""I'm not going to grow spinach when I have lambsquarters coming up.""",99,34,22,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/lv4pi/alexia_allen_she_lives_so_frugally_she_doesnt/,"I tried to post this to r/frugal, but after it had 40 upvotes, the mods removed it. I think a lot of folks will put a mountain of brain power into saving $6 per year, but skip over how to save $24,000 per year.
This is ""the chicken lady"" from the ""respectful chicken harvest"" video. She explains a lot of her choices for wild foods, permaculture, and how she rents out all of the rooms on her farm so she doesn't have to work anymore. And by ""all"" I mean that she lives on the farm while sleeping under the stars.
http://www.richsoil.com/permaculture/453-podcast-084-alexia-allen/
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_lv4pi,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/lv4pi/alexia_allen_she_lives_so_frugally_she_doesnt/,
1307643699.0,64,chicken.firstcultural.com,hvpj7,How not to raise chickens: a field guide for urban poultry farmers,72,8,33,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/hvpj7/how_not_to_raise_chickens_a_field_guide_for_urban/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_hvpj7,http://chicken.firstcultural.com/,
1350400100.0,62,lewrockwell.com,11kmhu,100 Items that Disappear First -- Do You Have a Supply?,111,49,35,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/11kmhu/100_items_that_disappear_first_do_you_have_a/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_11kmhu,http://lewrockwell.com/spl4/100-items-to-disappear.html,
1317220817.0,62,austin360.com,ku469,New kind of young farmers taking root -- the kind that didn't grow up on the farm,71,9,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ku469/new_kind_of_young_farmers_taking_root_the_kind/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_ku469.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ku469,http://www.austin360.com/food-drink/new-kind-of-young-farmers-taking-root-1882470.html?viewAsSinglePage=true,
1304265179.0,68,youtube.com,h1fj9,Backyard farmers by necessity: self-sufficient and debt-free ,74,6,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/h1fj9/backyard_farmers_by_necessity_selfsufficient_and/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_h1fj9.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_h1fj9,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-N8FIVWeMqo,
1295185607.0,65,en.wikipedia.org,f39fg,"Simple backyard aquaponics systems promote food self-sufficiency, and produce abundant fish and vegetables from a self sustaining system.",71,6,19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/f39fg/simple_backyard_aquaponics_systems_promote_food/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_f39fg.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_f39fg,http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquaponics,
1346257279.0,60,opensourceecology.cmail4.com,z0y3a,The Global Village Construction Set people are recruiting two key members to their team (near Kansas City): a Master Prototyper and a Machine Designer.,68,8,0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/z0y3a/the_global_village_construction_set_people_are/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/rEBeszjwPy8-_t-k.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_z0y3a,http://opensourceecology.cmail4.com/t/ViewEmail/j/52637D02645BD6EA/FB97381270249E5CC67FD2F38AC4859C,
1367473977.0,60,self.SelfSufficiency,1djbgk,Reddit- Sick of getting the Yellow Pages? Opt out of getting them in about 5 minutes and save some paper from being wasted.,82,22,14,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1djbgk/reddit_sick_of_getting_the_yellow_pages_opt_out/,"I don't know about you guys, but in Santa Cruz, California, most people just throw their Yellow Pages in the recycle bin as soon as they get them. Most of us have internet and need no use for the Yellow Pages, so I have been suggesting people to simply opt out of them to save some paper.
https://www.yellowpagesoptout.com/",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1367475575.0,,,True,t3_1djbgk,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1djbgk/reddit_sick_of_getting_the_yellow_pages_opt_out/,
1346269140.0,57,hourofthetime.com,z1at6,Five Gallon Bucket Hydroelectric Generator,61,4,0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/z1at6/five_gallon_bucket_hydroelectric_generator/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_z1at6,http://www.hourofthetime.com/1-LF/Hour_Of_The_Time_08292012-5_Gallon_Bucket_Hydroelectric_Build%20Manual.pdf,
1297898175.0,61,blogs.ocweekly.com,fmszb,"Pasadena Family Trademarks the Terms 'Urban Homestead' and 'Urban Homesteading,' Now Cracking Down on Bloggers with Cease and Desist Letters",69,8,33,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/fmszb/pasadena_family_trademarks_the_terms_urban/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_fmszb.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_fmszb,http://blogs.ocweekly.com/stickaforkinit/2011/02/pasadena_family_trademarks_the.php,
1350246859.0,57,self.SelfSufficiency,11h54v,How we built our earthbag hybrid barn,65,8,26,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/11h54v/how_we_built_our_earthbag_hybrid_barn/,"we had been planning out a barn for awhile and we had been leaning towards several different ideas. We ended up going with earthbags, we had never tried it and wanted to try something different
http://thehomesteadingboards.com/forum/general-homesteading-group2/construction-and-diy-projects-forum5/barn-project-thread23/",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_11h54v,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/11h54v/how_we_built_our_earthbag_hybrid_barn/,
1325552255.0,60,self.SelfSufficiency,o0gjd,"Planning an off-grid home with two other friends. I have plans. Any suggestions to improve those plans? (Long read inside, but help is greatly appreciated!)",67,7,46,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o0gjd/planning_an_offgrid_home_with_two_other_friends_i/,"Basically, I'm looking to go off the grid, but because of my own nature, I'm looking to build a shining example of self-sufficiency - something I can use to educate others on how to do it better. The problem is that I've only done internet and library research. I need insight from those that have actually done it.
Right now, the plan is to essentially have a small scale off-grid commune with two others on about 20 acres, and develop farm land, including livestock (likely chickens, pigs, and goats), an orchard including fruit and nut trees, and farmland including various fruits and veggies or all sorts, depending on what grows best at that time of year (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries definitely included).
Here's my plan (warning, very long - edited repost from an email to one of the others I'm planning with):
Home:
What sorts of things would you and [the other participant] like to see worked into housing, amenities and infrastructure on the property? Pretty much anything is possible, it's just a question of ingenuity and cost (and the more ingenious we are, the lower the cost). As I mentioned in the reply I just sent you on FB, I realized right after I sent the rough floor plan to you that I had forgotten to add a cold cellar - that's a must for a project like this. I'd likely put in the rear of the house, about 5-6 feet lower than the rest of the house (to make for a thicker roof and better insulation, not to mention keeping the ambient temperature in the room a little cooler - I'd like it to be around 55 degrees year round, with a large chest or upright freezer).
Also, I've been looking into using composting, low-flow toilets in the house. This would require a small basement space central to the three bathrooms with about a 6' ceiling height and an entrance large enough to carry finished compost out. It would also have to be climate controlled enough to maintain roughly 70 degrees year round for the most efficient composting. The system that I'm looking at is a central tank system, designed to handle 6 people for daily use, and up to 9 people for weekend/vacation use (meaning that it's more than enough for day to day living, but won't be over-taxed should we entertain several guests every now and then). It has the added benefit of turning our bodily waste into rich fertilizer for the farm. In conjunction with a separate composting system for biodegradable garbage, we should be able to produce all of our own fertilizer.
As far as home construction, I'm thinking that a good way to add heating and cooling efficiency to the home (even above and beyond the inherent efficiency of the earth-berm construction) is to separate the home into three sections: the left living quarters, the shared area, and the right living quarters. The primary wall between each section (which will also be structural) will be about 2 feet thick, and filled with a combination of earth, straw, and sawdust - basically scrap building materials, which provides for great efficiency.
I was also wondering if I should leave the design with two completely separate living quarters, complete with kitchens, or just do two bedrooms and living on one side, and three bedrooms with living space on the other side, and have a larger, shared kitchen. The reason I originally broke it up into two complete separate living spaces is because of bad experiences with former roommates. Those experiences are not likely to be true here, as we're all adults with a common goal, and know how to respect each others' things. Besides, two kitchens will greatly reduce the efficiency of the space, particularly with propane usage in the ovens/ranges.
A possible design that could work is to reduce the size of the central great room and put a large kitchen across the rear of it (the bathrooms would have to stay more or less where they are because of the placement of the central composter). The space gained in the living areas could be turned into storage, office space, or any of a number of other things, or simply eliminated to make the home smaller, and thus more efficient (if we eliminated the separate kitchens, the third bedroom on the right side would be moved into the space for the kitchen; on the left side, the second bedroom would be moved into the kitchen space, and the space vacated by the bedroom would be turned into a shed accessible from outside only).
Infrastructure:
The first part that I worked on planning is power generation. I'm taking a three-pronged approach to this - solar, wind, and hydroelectric (the weighting on the overall power generation of each system would be based on the site itself - speed of flow in any stream/river on the property, average number of sunny days per year, and amount of wind and wind speed on the property above any local obstructions (trees, buildings, water towers, etc.)).
Solar power would likely be one of our primary forms of power generation, and we'd have to dedicate about 3/4 acre to it (maybe less, if efficiency tests are better than expected). The solar system I've designed produces about 10KWh of power per day. My current home (about 750 square feet, and drafty, poorly designed, and using highly inefficient heating/cooling - though I do use CFL lighting throughout) averages about 5KWh/day of power usage. This 10KWh system should be more than enough to power the entire off-grid home (at about 2500-3500 square feet), even if we used conventional heating and cooling. This can likely get scaled back. I priced this system out at about $14,000, not including mounting or batteries.
Wind power would be mostly just a back-up system, primarily because of the costs involved with the towers. I priced out a single DIY wind turbine system, producing 2KWh/day with a 127' tilt-up tower (meaning we can drop the tower for maintenance and for strong storms that might burn out the turbine). Total cost, with tower, is around $16,000. This is by far the most inefficient system, considering power produced versus installation costs. Costs can be greatly reduced if we can reduce the height of the tower. Over 30', the cost of the tower height roughly doubled for every ten feet. With a 30' tower, this system could cost as little as $6,000-$7,000 per 2KWh, including the turbine. This cost still does not include the batteries and power inverters needed to give us a steady, reliable flow of 120vAC to the house (what your standard wall outlet provides).
Hydroelectric remains the wildcard here. Instead of pricing out systems, I've been reading up on what is required to produce hydroelectric. If we have a good stream (or small river) on the property, with a height difference of between 10 and 40 feet from the top of the stream to the end that leaves the property, or just a fast moving stream without much height difference, we may well be able to produce a bulk of our electricity from hydroelectric. Overall, it's fairly cheap, considering installation cost to power output, generally averaging 1-4 cents per watt hour (MUCH cheaper than grid power, which averages around 12-13 cents per watt hour. I've seen systems that can produce up to 2KWh/day for $2000, and systems that produce as little as 300-400Wh per day for less than $750. I'd need to see the property and any flowing surface water on it before I could provide any actual cost estimates.
Beyond the above three technologies for power generation, we would need a battery bank, a DC-AC power inverter (all of the above systems produce either 12v or 24v DC - most of the appliances and electronics we'd use in the home are going to be 120v AC - the power inverter makes using those electronics possible), and various system monitoring systems and fail-safes. For instance, you don't want to overcharge the batteries. One of the common fail-safes for that is a power dump, which uses the extra electricity generated over the safe levels for the batteries to do things like heat water or heat air for the home climate control. I have not yet priced out the battery bank, but I will likely be looking into Lithium Ion batteries, as they are the most efficient, longest lasting, and have the coolest discharge rates (heat generated from battery discharge means decreased efficiency). The battery bank will likely require a climate controlled space (hovering around 60 degrees year round). I'm guessing based on what I know about L-Ion batteries, the bank would need to be about the size of a small car to handle the kind of power we'll be generating. The space would also need to house the various monitoring systems, disconnects, and other such power equipment. I'd probably send power over a large, high voltage cable to the house, where it would be stepped down for home usage. The breaker box would be located in the house. (Don't worry if you don't understand most of this. That's why I'm here - to engineer and manage this system. I'm the one that needs to know it.)
Edit: the basic home design, still very rough and in need of a lot of improvement: http://i.imgur.com/ZADbk.png
Edit 2 (01/04/2012): A new home design using some earthship ideas, as well as ideas from people commenting here: https://imgur.com/meQEo
(continued in comments)",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_o0gjd,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o0gjd/planning_an_offgrid_home_with_two_other_friends_i/,
1363682083.0,59,milkwood.net,1akzy7,The Sun Hive: experimental Natural Beekeeping [REPOST from r/entomology],72,13,8,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1akzy7/the_sun_hive_experimental_natural_beekeeping/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/HA4knWCunsD9tKqG.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1akzy7,http://milkwood.net/2013/03/05/the-sun-hive-experiments-in-natural-beekeeping/,
1361345282.0,57,self.SelfSufficiency,18vit2,"I Want to Build a Yurt
",73,16,19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/18vit2/i_want_to_build_a_yurt/,"Does anyone have any guides online on how to do this?
Classic yurts, not the ones found at Burning Man made out of plywood.
If anyone knows a good guide, I'd be grateful. ",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_18vit2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/18vit2/i_want_to_build_a_yurt/,
1356042035.0,55,self.SelfSufficiency,156wfn,I'm trying to work out the costs in building a home as near to energy/water self sufficient as physically possible. I'm trying to break down all the estimated costs that would be needed to fuel 4 people. Is there a project anyone's aware of that has published these kind of numbers?,64,9,9,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/156wfn/im_trying_to_work_out_the_costs_in_building_a/,"I'm situated in Sweden if that helps. I'm looking for costs both in buying the necessary equipment. (solar panels, massive water tanks, wind turbines.) And also the number of energy needed to heat and power a home comfortably in a climate that has a harsh winter from November to April. One thing we would have to combat energy costs is a good fireplace.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1356081852.0,,,True,t3_156wfn,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/156wfn/im_trying_to_work_out_the_costs_in_building_a/,
1323034755.0,56,books.google.com,n05ik,"Free Google eBook: ""Fundamentals of Farming and Farm Life"", Edwin Jackson Kyle, Alexander Caswell Ellis, 1922, 466 pages",66,10,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/n05ik/free_google_ebook_fundamentals_of_farming_and/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_n05ik,http://books.google.com/books?id=6uIXAAAAYAAJ&dq=farm&ie=ISO-8859-1&pg=PP1#v=onepage&q&f=true,
1315952239.0,58,youtube.com,keorb,this guy modified a wood stove to burn cleaner and put out five times more heat with the same wood,71,13,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/keorb/this_guy_modified_a_wood_stove_to_burn_cleaner/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_keorb.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_keorb,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMUES-34Ioc,
1286039078.0,59,richsoil.com,dlxy8,"With a little knowledge, a cast iron pan is non stick and can last hundreds of years",64,5,10,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/dlxy8/with_a_little_knowledge_a_cast_iron_pan_is_non/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_dlxy8.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_dlxy8,http://www.richsoil.com/cast-iron.jsp,
1245877693.0,54,youtube.com,8vcss,Using two-liter bottles to make non-electric daytime light sources.,62,8,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/8vcss/using_twoliter_bottles_to_make_nonelectric/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_8vcss.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_8vcss,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zMAWztZ6TI,
1301530972.0,56,alternet.org,gf4j7,"Garden as if Your Life Depended on it, Because it Does -
There are at least 5 reasons why more of us should take up the spade, make some compost, & start gardening with a vengeance",68,12,8,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gf4j7/garden_as_if_your_life_depended_on_it_because_it/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_gf4j7,http://www.alternet.org/environment/150428/garden_as_if_your_life_depended_on_it%2C_because_it_does,
1367702075.0,56,youtube.com,1dp4st,permaculture recycled.....a different way of permaculture,71,15,9,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1dp4st/permaculture_recycleda_different_way_of/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/hRHp60I4YPjCOc2-.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1dp4st,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh0RzJCS9Tk,
1324066625.0,52,youtube.com,nfjao,swing blade sawmill in action,62,10,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/nfjao/swing_blade_sawmill_in_action/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/mAJh__fSJOunJrMe.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_nfjao,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0ZN9KqNF2o,
1376499267.0,57,reddit.com,1kcw7s,New sub reddit for off grid homes,69,12,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1kcw7s/new_sub_reddit_for_off_grid_homes/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1kcw7s,http://www.reddit.com/r/OffGridCabins/,
1298764126.0,57,current.com,ftf20,How Cuba Survived Peak Oil (and became the worlds first sustainable country) - You all will love this documentary!,67,10,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ftf20/how_cuba_survived_peak_oil_and_became_the_worlds/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_ftf20.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ftf20,http://current.com/news/89990938_the-power-of-community-how-cuba-survived-peak-oil.htm,
1367268117.0,51,youtube.com,1dd1jw,This year I've been really working on my garden. My goal is to eat mostly only foods that I produce here on my own this summer. I'm adding Calcium and Magnesium to the tomato plants to increase their health and yield.,68,17,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1dd1jw/this_year_ive_been_really_working_on_my_garden_my/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/DJgO40-XIQ4TGiq3.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1dd1jw,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFrYXbkWG0o,
1330521144.0,49,besurvival.com,qb96u,How To Build A Stockpile For Only $2.75 A Day (X-post from PostCollapse),64,15,32,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/qb96u/how_to_build_a_stockpile_for_only_275_a_day_xpost/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/9ixzIbo86NlHOM5V.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_qb96u,http://besurvival.com/homesteading/how-to-build-a-stockpile-for-only-275-a-day,
1323183195.0,51,instructables.com,n2jak,"Simple, build-it-yourself furniture",63,12,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/n2jak/simple_buildityourself_furniture/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/hwHYZ_ikIUcZ6Sin.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_n2jak,http://www.instructables.com/id/Scrap-Armchair/,
1317691719.0,54,poorfolkbows.com,l00bx,Poor Folk Bows: Bow building for poor people and apartment dwellers,57,3,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/l00bx/poor_folk_bows_bow_building_for_poor_people_and/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_l00bx,http://poorfolkbows.com/index.html,
1245854890.0,53,sharonastyk.com,8v8o1,25 Plants You Should Consider Growing,54,1,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/8v8o1/25_plants_you_should_consider_growing/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_8v8o1,http://sharonastyk.com/2009/02/10/20-plants-you-should-consider-growing/,
1343605632.0,55,self.SelfSufficiency,xd3lv,What books would you recommend to increase self-sufficiency?,60,5,25,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/xd3lv/what_books_would_you_recommend_to_increase/,I once read a story in which the Earth was doomed and its people had to colonize other planets. The father in the story brought along a book that explained how things worked and how to create things. Sort of like wikihow but in print. Can anyone recommend a book like that to add to my collection?,,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_xd3lv,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/xd3lv/what_books_would_you_recommend_to_increase/,
1284934691.0,52,washingtonpost.com,dg38k,"Under pressure from the biotechnology industry, the FDA has failed to require any mandatory labeling of GMO foods, and does not want even ""non-GMO"" labeling. Polls consistently show that more than 80% of Americans want GE foods to be labeled. Shouldn't these FDA people be fired?",67,15,20,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/dg38k/under_pressure_from_the_biotechnology_industry/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_dg38k.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_dg38k,http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/18/AR2010091803520_2.html?wprss=rss_nation&sid=ST2010091804108,
1361298724.0,48,santacruzsurvivors.com,18txmp,Aquaponics 4 part series for my food Self Sufficiency,60,12,15,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/18txmp/aquaponics_4_part_series_for_my_food_self/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/dTxCDs9e0FDc2SCN.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_18txmp,http://santacruzsurvivors.com/category/homesteading/permaculture/aquaponics/,
1353268176.0,51,math.dartmouth.edu,13erz6,Self-Reliance by Ralph Waldo Emerson [pdf],61,10,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/13erz6/selfreliance_by_ralph_waldo_emerson_pdf/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_13erz6,http://www.math.dartmouth.edu/~doyle/docs/self/self.pdf,
1318895459.0,53,self.SelfSufficiency,lfpe0,Best Books for Self Sufficiency? ,56,3,31,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/lfpe0/best_books_for_self_sufficiency/,"As I read possum living and find resources around that internet that allow me to better farm, craft, and eat on my own, I was wondering if there are any gems of books I might be missing.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_lfpe0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/lfpe0/best_books_for_self_sufficiency/,
1245854816.0,48,doorgarden.com,8v8no,Build a $50 Greenhouse,50,2,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/8v8no/build_a_50_greenhouse/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_8v8no.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_8v8no,http://doorgarden.com/10/50-dollar-hoop-house-green-house,
1359823597.0,48,self.SelfSufficiency,17rb83,I plan on living completely self-sufficient ... eh ... Help me!,56,8,116,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/17rb83/i_plan_on_living_completely_selfsufficient_eh/,"**EDIT** I have considered all your advice and come to the conclusion that a bit-by-bit strategy is the way to go. thanks ruraldream for a bit of eye opening.
****************************
So basically I want to get out and live on my own. With no help from outside just me and nature.
Easy, right? NO!
I am a 30 year old German not in the best shape of my life (as I said I am 30 :-( so go figure....). I understand that I need a lot of time in planing so I gave myself 18 Month. I can draw a Bow and I am skillful with the Knife.
In Europe there is no way of doing this without you having to pay some sort of tax or insurance. My goal is to be completely cut from society and civilization.
I don't want to use any electricity or be dependent on ""modern"" tools that once broken I could not replace.
So the Questions are:
* Where can I live without having to pay for mandatory taxes or insurances, in Germany you have to have a health insurance and pay GEZ(basically a media/TV/Internet Tax)? But since I don't plan on having an income that is no option.
* Where am I allowed to hunt or trap without having to pay fees or apply for licences? If there is no place then where is it the absolute cheapest?
* What things have I in your opinion not thought about, that most people who want to do that forget?
* Since I have German citizenship, It needs to be a place I can visit for a long time (at least one year). What places can I rule out because of this?
* What skills do I need to acquire in your opinion that are totally necessary to master **before** I begin my adventure?
* What tools are absolutely needed that are ""modern""? I plan on bringing a couple of Knifes with me as I could not build a good replacement myself. But other than that, I don't want to bring a whole lot with me. What would you say am I forgetting?
As you can guess I am at the very beginning of my planing. So any help is appreciated.
Thanks in advance and excuse my bad English.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1359837022.0,,,True,t3_17rb83,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/17rb83/i_plan_on_living_completely_selfsufficient_eh/,
1341532205.0,50,vimeo.com,w3p5e,Earthships on... Bob the Builder! [Vimeo 10:22],54,4,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/w3p5e/earthships_on_bob_the_builder_vimeo_1022/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/NO96wFdboIvxLZmc.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_w3p5e,http://vimeo.com/22247008#,
1338353016.0,48,youtube.com,ubnam,High RPM Clothes Dryer - faster and significantly lower energy requirements,56,8,24,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ubnam/high_rpm_clothes_dryer_faster_and_significantly/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/RY6-U606a7LfxYMo.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ubnam,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQXWG1ev0rE&feature=related,
1328467324.0,51,self.SelfSufficiency,pc2jb,This guys seems to have a very succesful experiment in an aquaponics + vegs closed feedback system,57,6,15,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pc2jb/this_guys_seems_to_have_a_very_succesful/,"I've just seen this in TV news on Hungarian TV. Guy says he learned most of it online so he might be a Redditor :)
A glasshouse with walls made of black oil barrels full of water - they collect heat during sunlight and give it back when it doesn't shine. Result: -7C outside +22C inside.
A tank of 50 trouts inside. An active electric water circulation system costing 4000 HUF, roughly $20 per month in electric bills (I figure this should be easy to replace with solar) circulating the water between the trouts and the vegs which live in not earth but big plastic baskets full of pebbles soaked in water. Their roots are always in water. The guy says the fact that the water is circulating and always oxigenated prevents rot.
The result is that the vegs are great, without earth, without weeds, without the ground-based illnesses, and get watered automatically for 20 bucks a month, plus he gets to eat the fishes. Most healthy kind of meat that there is.
Sounds very good. What do you think?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_pc2jb,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pc2jb/this_guys_seems_to_have_a_very_succesful/,
1309354489.0,49,solarcooking.org,ic9zx,Home made solar funnel oven — use it at night to freeze water (depending where you live),51,2,15,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ic9zx/home_made_solar_funnel_oven_use_it_at_night_to/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_ic9zx.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ic9zx,http://solarcooking.org/plans/funnel.htm,
1272753449.0,51,michiganmicrofarms.com,byvc2,"Local guys buy 18 acres, turn it into a micro farm. In their first year they are almost fully leased- and its just the start of May. You can get two options- Green thumb that you grow yourself, or Yellow thumb where they grow for you. People are craving good local veggies!
",55,4,12,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/byvc2/local_guys_buy_18_acres_turn_it_into_a_micro_farm/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_byvc2.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_byvc2,http://michiganmicrofarms.com/index.html,
1367853772.0,48,youtube.com,1dso4k,the secret self sustainable community in mexico...haommekha,61,13,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1dso4k/the_secret_self_sustainable_community_in/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/583dBVwbnHTBnPDO.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1dso4k,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_JIXTj8ofk,
1346688040.0,50,independent.co.uk,za92x,X-post from FoodSovereignty - Banks making huge profits from food price volatility (and likely contributing to it) - yet another reason to be self-sufficient...,67,17,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/za92x/xpost_from_foodsovereignty_banks_making_huge/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/JsWjzx3_Cw0pGUNI.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_za92x,http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/barclays-makes-500m-betting-on-food-crisis-8100011.html,
1344361845.0,48,youtube.com,xu0rj,"Homegrown Revolution (Award winning short-film 2009)- The Urban Homestead
- YouTube",63,15,8,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/xu0rj/homegrown_revolution_award_winning_shortfilm_2009/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/we5CBKeKgDfsjt1l.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_xu0rj,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IbODJiEM5A,
1331775430.0,46,lehmans.com,qx3yb,"Does anyone have any experience with hand cranked blenders? I'm looking to buy one, and found this little number.",53,7,30,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/qx3yb/does_anyone_have_any_experience_with_hand_cranked/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/1wkIyzYMik-GyL37.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_qx3yb,http://www.lehmans.com/store/Kitchen___Kitchenware___Countertop___Hand_Cranked_Blender___1162550#1162550,
1327415943.0,47,ask.metafilter.com,ouhav,"How do farmers not become sentimental about killing the animals they've raised and nurtured, even though they've done it expressly for that purpose? - [Post from Ask Metafilter]",54,7,38,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ouhav/how_do_farmers_not_become_sentimental_about/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ouhav,http://ask.metafilter.com/206440/butchering-wilbur,
1326233853.0,47,permies.com,oberk,Best egg-laying chicken breeds,58,11,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/oberk/best_egglaying_chicken_breeds/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/OucabCPV1RGESXdU.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_oberk,http://www.permies.com/t/1221/critter-care/best-egg-laying-breed-chicken,
1326170010.0,47,youtube.com,oae5i,Hong Kong Man enters legal battle for the right to Fish his own Food,51,4,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/oae5i/hong_kong_man_enters_legal_battle_for_the_right/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/NTB1tqpZluD6IgB-.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_oae5i,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKzZ_UEufv8,
1317585995.0,49,lifehacker.com,kyltb,remove rust from cast iron cookware using an oven,60,11,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/kyltb/remove_rust_from_cast_iron_cookware_using_an_oven/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_kyltb.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_kyltb,http://lifehacker.com/5845822/remove-rust-from-cast-iron-cookware-in-your-oven,
1313446700.0,44,cd3wd.com,jjti7,Solar refrigeration! Cool...,53,9,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/jjti7/solar_refrigeration_cool/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_jjti7,http://www.cd3wd.com/CD3WD_40/JF/JF_OTHER/SMALL/Solar%20icemaker.pdf,
1309258142.0,49,en.wikipedia.org,ib70x,Fire Piston - never a need for matches again.,54,5,11,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ib70x/fire_piston_never_a_need_for_matches_again/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ib70x,http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_piston,
1375062685.0,48,youtube.com,1j8zn9,Making Lemonade out of Sumac.,66,18,12,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1j8zn9/making_lemonade_out_of_sumac/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/UUEMoYXkAP6AWzkE.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1j8zn9,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbFCgR8kcco,
1374066302.0,47,frugaling.org,1ihedu,Are We Addicted To Air Conditioning?,91,44,65,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ihedu/are_we_addicted_to_air_conditioning/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/NFBigaAV-E6vJ5m2.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1ihedu,http://frugaling.org/air-conditioning/,
1348032419.0,44,homebrewhydro.com,104g60,Interesting writeup on a micro-hydro generator in Oregon,51,7,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/104g60/interesting_writeup_on_a_microhydro_generator_in/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/15LPelu34yokiT6H.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_104g60,http://www.homebrewhydro.com/,
1325790782.0,44,statesman.com,o4aga,Newlywed couple create cozy home aboard 300-square-foot school bus ,49,5,9,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o4aga/newlywed_couple_create_cozy_home_aboard/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_o4aga,http://www.statesman.com/life/style/couple-create-cozy-home-aboard-bus-2079536.html?viewAsSinglePage=true,
1309543536.0,50,youtube.com,iee5x,respectful harvest of chicken part 2: butchering. including use of chicken feet and undeveloped egg yolks,62,12,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/iee5x/respectful_harvest_of_chicken_part_2_butchering/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_iee5x.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_iee5x,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExGRrwlhldA,
1277493723.0,50,fastonline.org,cj1v7,"800 Megs of Self-Sufficiency ~ 900 Files in 1 download, for free.",54,4,14,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/cj1v7/800_megs_of_selfsufficiency_900_files_in_1/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_cj1v7,http://www.fastonline.org/CD3WD_40/CD3WD/INDEX.HTM,
1375578010.0,46,youtube.com,1jnmca,The most effective and resource inexpensive squirrel trap possible!,68,22,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1jnmca/the_most_effective_and_resource_inexpensive/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/wnRCwQfjS1-CVvyL.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1jnmca,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=424kFUiPeK4,
1367890513.0,44,self.SelfSufficiency,1du0p4,"Just inherited a house and some land, help a newbie down the right path. (X-post from r/permaculture.)",58,14,29,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1du0p4/just_inherited_a_house_and_some_land_help_a/,"Just inherited a small home and some land, help a newbie take the first steps to doing it right. (Apologies for the length.).
Evening all,
To get started, here's all the info I could gather from the sidebar suggestions for best answers:
Photos:
Backyard: http://i.imgur.com/Pvz12se.png
Front yard: http://i.imgur.com/PtZhHdw.jpg
(Cleanup and removal of debris in progress.)
Climate zone: 6B.
Latitude: 36.3512.
Elevation: 1,367 feet.
Growing grass presently and various trees.
Topography Map: http://i.imgur.com/ozqAxJQ.jpg.
(The blue dot is where I have reliable Internet, the area I'll be setting up in will be slightly NE in a line by the red double dashes to indicate our dirt road. The large divot just north of the blue dot, according to local lore, was a meteor impact site but I have been unable to confirm this.).
No present water features.
Average Rainfall: 44.1 inches.
No legal restrictions for rainwater collection, livestock. I'm not sure what other restrictions are worth noting.
Solar Orientation report from University of Oregon site:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/kdjnbh6sbiq26qk/20997478.pdf.
Soil Conditions: Extremely Rocky and no other testing or evaluation performed.
Site was wooded area until 10 years ago when it was cleared for the present structures.
==========================
With all that out of the way, my initial thoughts:
Outside - Backyard.
I plan to add a rainwater collection system. Not anything super fancy, a filter at the drain and a hose to collect the water coming off the downspout into a series of food grade barrels that will be dedicated to rainwater only.
I have also considered harvesting water in some way that typically would run off the ledge just past the tree line. However, I don't know how best to do that.
I will be creating an area for gardening outside the back fence that will run the length of the fence, potentially more. A portion of it initially will be a hoop or tunnel house, to allow harvest later into the year. Later, an actual greenhouse structure will be added.
I feel more trees and shrubs should be planted in the backyard and likely some berry bushes of some sort. I will research more prevalent floral additions that thrive in my area. I will be planting bamboo at one corner and will harvest it at various lengths, dry it properly and use them in the garden and for fishing poles. There is a stocked pond nearby I have access to.
We have all manner of wildlife that we frequently see, deer, turkey, fish (stocked pond) Etc. I have some neighbors that will let me barter for some of their goats and chickens.
I have an order in to our local lumber yard for some cedar and will be building 3 3x3 compost heaps. There is also a large compost drum that has the handle to turn it and it's in good shape.
There is a play structure (and the bright yellow slide is still visible in the picture) that I plan to remove and free cycle to someone or donate as it won't be useful.
Outside - Front yard
Addition of more trees, bushes and local floral types. Removal of a handicapped ramp and construction of stairs from the removed ramp.
I want it presentable out front but no idea in how to make that happen inside the fencing.
There is one neighbor nearby, who wants to see the area taken care of but has mentioned help would be limited. There's also a building being used as a barn for various storage next to them.
Inside
There is gas, electric, sewer and water. I just have to go sign all that over soon. The stove and hot water heater are propane. Inside is an electric Fridge and large chest freezer.
How am I doing so far? I welcome any and all questions, comments and concerns.
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1367891640.0,,,True,t3_1du0p4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1du0p4/just_inherited_a_house_and_some_land_help_a/,
1362452528.0,46,youtu.be,19okuv,Ruth Stout's Garden. No-work gardening Queen of Mulch!,51,5,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/19okuv/ruth_stouts_garden_nowork_gardening_queen_of_mulch/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/Q0EpFwvnc9tqjFZT.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_19okuv,http://youtu.be/GNU8IJzRHZk,
1352822140.0,48,apeiron.org,134jhi,House of the future,50,2,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/134jhi/house_of_the_future/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/Au7iNM6LG-ME7udh.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_134jhi,http://www.apeiron.org/new/thecenter/index.php,
1319918695.0,41,ctahr.hawaii.edu,ltgmh,"Excellent pdf book on rain water catchment systems. Written for Hawaii, but much of it is applicable anywhere.",45,4,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ltgmh/excellent_pdf_book_on_rain_water_catchment/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ltgmh,http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/oc/freepubs/pdf/RM-12.pdf,
1303838889.0,44,self.SelfSufficiency,gxwvu,How do you plan a self-sufficient garden? Here are the factors to consider.,48,4,9,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gxwvu/how_do_you_plan_a_selfsufficient_garden_here_are/,"I'd like to set up completely self-sufficient, organic, raised-bed gardening, mainly using square foot gardening. However, I'm having difficulty figuring out what goes where and when since there are just so many factors to consider. Here is a list:
- **Crop rotation** -> planting groups of different plant families together, some can't follow others
- **Plant sizes** -> tall plants are to be at the North side of the garden not to shade others
- **Companion planting** -> plants can be grown together to aid each other, i.e. the three sisters
- **Timing** -> Different plants grow in different seasons
- **Saving seed** -> different varieties of the same plant can't be grown together due to cross-pollination
Keeping all these things in mind, how would you plan a garden, year after year?
Here are some questions whose answers would greatly help me, and others, out:
1. When a spring crop, such as spinach, is done, do you plant something from a different plant family for the summer crop? Does that already count as crop rotation? When does the ground need its rest?
2. If I plant seeds that are only heirloom (""proven through the decades...""), is there absolutely no risk of cross-pollination, even if different types of tomatos are right next to each other? If I plant regular open-pollinated seeds, how far apart should different types be?
3. In certain types of companion plantings, such as the three sisters mentioned above, pole beans fix nitrogen into the soil that the corn gobbles up. Would this garden plot still need to be rotated every year?
General advice on all this would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_gxwvu,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gxwvu/how_do_you_plan_a_selfsufficient_garden_here_are/,
1374292900.0,44,youtube.com,1ioeeo,"[Spring Snare] I make survival videos every week. Here's a trap I made today, I hope you guys like it!!!",52,8,8,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ioeeo/spring_snare_i_make_survival_videos_every_week/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/Cp1HwfH72vge6pnT.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1ioeeo,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oEs4q9rHik,
1368461406.0,48,instructables.com,1e91gd,Biogas Digester Plan,58,10,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1e91gd/biogas_digester_plan/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/MkqlrmW53qInnyvm.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1e91gd,http://www.instructables.com/id/Bio-gas-plant-using-kitchen-waste/step8/null/,
1342156589.0,47,makeitmissoula.com,whgwl,Using pigs to seal ponds,63,16,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/whgwl/using_pigs_to_seal_ponds/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/xrHTCheRHnlXUwiz.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_whgwl,http://www.makeitmissoula.com/2012/07/paul-wheaton-can-pigs-build-ponds/,
1313402355.0,44,singularityhub.com,jj8ct,"The Rise of Urban Aquaponics: Farm Fresh Fish in Wisconsin. While still small, Sweet Water has already sold thousands of fish and is looking to make major expansions in the next two years.",48,4,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/jj8ct/the_rise_of_urban_aquaponics_farm_fresh_fish_in/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_jj8ct,http://singularityhub.com/2010/06/17/the-rise-of-urban-aquaponics-farm-fresh-fish-in-wisconsin-video/,
1332139969.0,41,self.SelfSufficiency,r35we,Psychology of Self-Sufficiency :: What scares you about this lifestyle?,48,7,33,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/r35we/psychology_of_selfsufficiency_what_scares_you/,"Pretty much every post in this subreddit is about the tools and methods that we'll need to use to be self-sustained individuals, but the psychology of living this lifestyle is just as important.
Our situation is really scary and I'm actually kind of terrified. Most people are so used to having to rely on our system for food and protection, and to essentially be thrown out into the wild is almost returning to the ""survival of the fittest"" lifestyle. Sure, we'll be a lot better off than most of our ancestors using things like permaculture, modern technology, and earth-based housing, but we have no idea what could happen year-to-year. Pests, droughts, wild carnivores, or hungry people with guns could be the end of us.
What are you fears about living this lifestyle? What do you do to settle those fears? I have nobody to talk to about this stuff, so its kind of rattling my brain a little.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_r35we,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/r35we/psychology_of_selfsufficiency_what_scares_you/,
1329385948.0,41,chronopause.com,ps50p,Self-sufficiency in northern Arizona,51,10,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ps50p/selfsufficiency_in_northern_arizona/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/DsvyyYftah8VF2AR.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ps50p,http://chronopause.com/index.php/2012/02/15/a-personal-update/,
1351786864.0,40,i.imgur.com,12gp2n,"The fundraiser for my food growing/trading website just failed, but we got this great shot during the campaign",72,32,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/12gp2n/the_fundraiser_for_my_food_growingtrading_website/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/tBXeR2ppkhI6nBA2.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_12gp2n,http://i.imgur.com/4jasM.png,
1333571848.0,41,self.SelfSufficiency,rthaj,New ethical living subreddit,48,7,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/rthaj/new_ethical_living_subreddit/,"I've made a new subreddit recently called [ethical living](http://www.reddit.com/r/ethical_living). The idea is to share little (or not so little) things that can be incorporated in to day to day (or week to week or month to month!) living, so anything to do with self sufficiency you have to share would be much appreciated. Obviously I hope you will find other stuff on there interesting too :)
And apologies if this is not of interest to anyone and is essentially spam, I hope it isn't",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_rthaj,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/rthaj/new_ethical_living_subreddit/,
1325586750.0,39,reddit.com,o0ys2,"Hey guys, I think this might fit in well here! Windowbox is a new subreddit aimed towards those of you that might use the small space on your windowsill or front step to grow flowers, herbs or maybe even little bits of veg.",48,9,0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o0ys2/hey_guys_i_think_this_might_fit_in_well_here/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_o0ys2,http://www.reddit.com/r/Windowbox/,
1316199980.0,44,self.SelfSufficiency,khxuy,"Community One, a self-sufficient eco-commune",46,2,38,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/khxuy/community_one_a_selfsufficient_ecocommune/,"I'm interested in starting a self-sufficient commune. Below you can find a copy of my post from the Intentional Communities REACHbook. Please comment, e-mail me, or visit the website if you're interested at all in the project or just want to help us out. Thanks. :)
Community One will be a commune with goals including:
a) complete self-sufficiency: the ability to exist independently from all other society by producing all of its requirements (e.g. food);
b) complete 'second-generation' self-sufficiency: the ability to produce all of the goods a new commune would need to form. E.g., if we decide that an axe is essential for building Community One, then at some point Community One must be able to manufacture such axes.
The desire for One and the reasons for these goals stem from my essay on political philosophy, ""On societies and their rights"", available at http://www.mediafire.com/?e4pbyepla6zb187 . Essentially I want to form Community One because:
* I am becoming distressed with life in the 'society at large', and no longer wish to deal with money, governments, or corporations. I desire a simpler life in harmony with nature and a few close friends who share a similar desire.
* I believe that all people should have the right to leave a society to go and form their own (see my essay for more information). By creating Community One we will be able to prove to others that this can be done, and obtain valuable information that will benefit others who wish to do so. We will write a book containing all of the information we will have used to create Community One, and this will be taken back to the 'old society' for the benefit of those who wish to do the same.
Please see our website or e-mail me for more information.
Email Address: gizmoguy1 [at] gmail [dot] com
Web Address: http://communityone.ourproject.org/",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_khxuy,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/khxuy/community_one_a_selfsufficient_ecocommune/,
1314671934.0,44,ksl.com,jympx, Pumpkin Man told to quit selling after almost 50 years,47,3,10,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/jympx/pumpkin_man_told_to_quit_selling_after_almost_50/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_jympx.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_jympx,http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=17026357,
1365104955.0,43,expertprepper.com,1bokj9,Top 10 Natural Anti-Inflammatory Herbs | the Expert Prepper Blog,58,15,0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1bokj9/top_10_natural_antiinflammatory_herbs_the_expert/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/nEUuQXegvIB4MrYo.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1bokj9,http://www.expertprepper.com/top-10-natural-anti-inflammatory-herbs/,
1354598372.0,42,13skills.com,148wvw,13Skills.com is the Home of the 13 in 13 Challenge Sponsored and Created by The Survival Podcast. Join us as we help to restore a can do spirit to our modern world by committing to learning 13 new life skills in 2013. ,56,14,11,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/148wvw/13skillscom_is_the_home_of_the_13_in_13_challenge/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/vYLelxnH81gQRBNX.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_148wvw,http://13skills.com/,
1341943848.0,44,yesmagazine.org,wc7rw,A southern African brewery illustrates how big industry can be self sufficient and green,48,4,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/wc7rw/a_southern_african_brewery_illustrates_how_big/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_wc7rw,http://www.yesmagazine.org/issues/money-print-your-own/brewing-a-future-zero-emissions-in-namibia,
1328589551.0,43,self.SelfSufficiency,pe8ba,Reddit needs it's own self-sufficient community. ,57,14,73,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pe8ba/reddit_needs_its_own_selfsufficient_community/,"Would it be possible to start a self-sufficient community, large enough to support at least 100 people or larger using earth-ships and open source ecology?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_pe8ba,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pe8ba/reddit_needs_its_own_selfsufficient_community/,
1321119545.0,40,youtube.com,m9wm9,"Pigs ""turn garbage into treasures."" Here is an easy, movable pen to rotate them with. They will till and nourish your soil!",45,5,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/m9wm9/pigs_turn_garbage_into_treasures_here_is_an_easy/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/txK0e_1KsYGT-zx6.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_m9wm9,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXeZ7oVhAUg,
1320954530.0,38,reddit.com,m7s0o,An /r/ about foraging for your food.,43,5,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/m7s0o/an_r_about_foraging_for_your_food/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_m7s0o,http://www.reddit.com/r/foraging,
1299871840.0,43,youtube.com,g24pf,refrigeration without power - route spring water through an unpowered refrigerator,72,29,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/g24pf/refrigeration_without_power_route_spring_water/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_g24pf.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_g24pf,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOAm0p0BuKM,
1247062114.0,42,backyardchickens.com,8zans,"BackYardChickens.com - Raise Chickens, Build Chicken Coops, Hatch Eggs",44,2,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/8zans/backyardchickenscom_raise_chickens_build_chicken/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_8zans.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_8zans,http://www.backyardchickens.com/,
1342027499.0,39,self.SelfSufficiency,we6si,Would anyone be interested in WWOOFing at an off-grid free-range goat dairy in southern Colorado for a few months this summer?,52,13,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/we6si/would_anyone_be_interested_in_wwoofing_at_an/,"We are a very small off-grid commercial raw goat milk dairy called Capra Collina, and we're searchable on the WWOOF website.
We make cheese and sell it to shareholders through a local co-op as well as at a farmer's market. We also have a large garden that supplies most of our fresh vegetables. There's an opportunity to volunteer at the co-op too on your days off, which can be a lot of fun.
Some of your duties would be learning how to herd the goats out into the surrounding forested canyons and BLM land, making all kinds of yummy cheeses, and tending to the garden.
We are all really into food here, so expect to eat awesome meals. If you love to cook, you'll do very well here!
There is one full-time person here, as well as two wwoofers that are here for the season (I am one of them). We are 27 and 30 years old, and the full-time person is a super awesome 61 year old lady who works harder than all of us put together. Someone just recently left, and we need one more person to balance out the work load.
The requirements are 20-25 hours a week, and there is a small stipend offered. Most of the chores are completed in the morning, and we have a huge chunk of the day to ourselves to read, write, hike, relax.
There is wireless internet that is run off of solar panels, so you won't be completely out of touch! You could stay in the yurt, or sleep in a tent; it's up to you! You could even sleep outside in just your sleeping bag.
Thanks for reading!
**UPDATE**
Thanks everyone for your interest! I am really amazed by the amount of replies and people who want to come out here! It feels good to know that there are so many people interested in this sort of lifestyle.
Fortunately, (or maybe not so fortunately for some of you) I think that we've found someone. If it ends up not working out, you can count on me trying to contact those of you who said you could volunteer this summer! I wish we could invite all of you out here, but that might get a little crazy.
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1342115407.0,,,True,t3_we6si,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/we6si/would_anyone_be_interested_in_wwoofing_at_an/,
1337952898.0,41,chickenthistlefarm.com,u4fn4,Running the numbers on Salatin style poultry.,43,2,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/u4fn4/running_the_numbers_on_salatin_style_poultry/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/8-oDdavCo8e9vy12.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_u4fn4,http://www.chickenthistlefarm.com/blog/2011/8/17/2011-pastured-chicken-season-statistics.html,
1369865114.0,40,self.SelfSufficiency,1fap21,Has anyone made a pot-in-pot refrigerator?,46,6,24,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1fap21/has_anyone_made_a_potinpot_refrigerator/,"I live in a hot, dry area with 20% humidity and temps currently around 95. I have a large terracotta pot with a smaller, double glazed pot on the inside... about two inches of soaked sand in between them. The tops of the pots are at the same level and their drain holes have been caulked. I soaked the sand to where it wouldn't accept any more water and I could see the water coming through the terracotta on the outside. I covered the pots with a wet towel. After about 6 hours there was no change in temperature in the inner pot! 12 hours and still no change! What did I do wrong?
Edit: [Here's a picture](http://i.imgur.com/4xzUogr.jpg?1)",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1369915379.0,,,True,t3_1fap21,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1fap21/has_anyone_made_a_potinpot_refrigerator/,
1361650008.0,40,imgur.com,193e2x,Can I burn this willow wood? The rot skeeves me out.,47,7,19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/193e2x/can_i_burn_this_willow_wood_the_rot_skeeves_me_out/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/3WjrEnsC-Pc3CZDg.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_193e2x,http://imgur.com/a/GmQNE,
1353426510.0,39,survivallife.com,13igt0,How to be Macgyver with Bamboo,48,9,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/13igt0/how_to_be_macgyver_with_bamboo/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/67e1h9-msqOogV3F.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_13igt0,http://www.survivallife.com/2012/10/15/how-to-be-macgyver-with-bamboo-part-1/,
1341413815.0,41,self.SelfSufficiency,w176q,Looking to buy a piece of undeveloped land somewhere in western Canada. At least an acre but the larger the better. What's the cheapest way to do this?,47,6,10,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/w176q/looking_to_buy_a_piece_of_undeveloped_land/,"Im looking to spend around $10,000 - $20,000 but if it's less that's a bonus. Preferably with a stream or lake on the property but I'm flexible. Can anyone reccomend any services, websites or share their experience doing the same?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_w176q,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/w176q/looking_to_buy_a_piece_of_undeveloped_land/,
1335655046.0,41,reddit.com,sxf6w,I thought you guys might like to know that there is a new subreddit dedicated to urban survivalism.,54,13,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/sxf6w/i_thought_you_guys_might_like_to_know_that_there/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_sxf6w,http://www.reddit.com/r/UrbanSurvivalism/,
1328506943.0,39,self.SelfSufficiency,pcu1r,"Okay, so I got slammed by one person on my off-grid home design. I took the criticisms back to my partners in the project, and one, as a business woman, suggested we build several properties, and sell them to make the money for the ultimate build.",45,6,43,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pcu1r/okay_so_i_got_slammed_by_one_person_on_my_offgrid/,"I will start by stating that the site plans I posted on my [last post here](http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pbj3i/i_just_got_some_great_compliments_and_advice_on/) were basically my dream home. I feel confident that I could build it now, but my partners in the project feel that we should start smaller, and build our way up.
I am completely on board with that, as I and the other male on the project are the ones with a construction background (I also have an architecture/science/physics/engineering/electrical background). The two women involved have a business background and a problem management background (respectively), as well as having both grown up on farms, and knowing agriculture inside and out.
The latest suggestion was to approach the project from a profit-based business perspective, and acting as land developers. Basically the plan was to start small, and develop up from there.
First, we'd develop a two acre property, and make it self-sufficient, sell it, and then do the same with a ten acre property, sell it, and eventually, through a process of sales, purchases, and developments, ultimately grow to a 100+ acre property, which would see the development of many other Earthship style homes, and create a complete off-grid community, such as has been developed in Taos, NM.
The home design I posted in my last post is my dream home - the ultimate goal we're working towards. With the redirection in our immediate goals, I have a new home design (I'm glad I've designed it to be drag and drop - it took me all of ten minutes to build this design), that is very easy for new developers.
[Here it is.](http://i.imgur.com/EYDed.png)",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_pcu1r,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pcu1r/okay_so_i_got_slammed_by_one_person_on_my_offgrid/,
1326060845.0,41,self.SelfSufficiency,o8f3m,Is a mostly solar heated home really possible?,42,1,51,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o8f3m/is_a_mostly_solar_heated_home_really_possible/,"Some places have nice sun in December, but around Toronto it's cloudy a lot during winter and we only average about 2.2 kWhr per square metre per day of sunlight. Only about 2/3 of that can get through a window and into a home. Then at night, most of the heat gets lost out the window.
Have you met anyone who lives in a real solar home in a cold climate, without hidden propane tanks, wood stoves, or electric subflor heating, going during the winter?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_o8f3m,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/o8f3m/is_a_mostly_solar_heated_home_really_possible/,
1300011058.0,40,self.SelfSufficiency,g31oo,So to be really self sufficient you presumably need some land. Where do you find cheap land?,51,11,86,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/g31oo/so_to_be_really_self_sufficient_you_presumably/,This is the biggest bump in the road in terms of planning.,,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_g31oo,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/g31oo/so_to_be_really_self_sufficient_you_presumably/,
1366250218.0,38,i.imgur.com,1cktaf,Ramp wrapped rabbit tenderloin,54,16,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1cktaf/ramp_wrapped_rabbit_tenderloin/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/6VOBkhcElJWw_mDd.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1cktaf,http://i.imgur.com/cpcUEPQ.jpg,
1361810828.0,39,santacruzsurvivors.com,19769f,How It All Started,50,11,0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/19769f/how_it_all_started/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/MraqE2GmTQy9pQDI.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_19769f,http://santacruzsurvivors.com/how-it-all-started/,
1356924687.0,41,self.SelfSufficiency,15pemx,Who wants to join up and start an ecovillage/permaculture/intentional community with me and a friend this summer in East Texas? Details inside. ,49,8,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/15pemx/who_wants_to_join_up_and_start_an/,"Me and a good friend of mine plan on buying some land in a few months. We're not sure how much just yet. Hopefully at least 20. We will then move into my travel trailer on the property. We're gonna salvage building materials and build a large community center/initial house. There will be vegetable gardens and fruit trees planted within the first couple months. After a year, I hope for me and my friend to have our own separate houses (he has a girlfriend and child). These will be small houses but will all be run on solar power, wind power, and possibly water power. We will have a well dug if possible and draw from a creek when necessary. There will be chickens, rabbits, and goats within the first year as well. After 5 years or so, we will add a large pond(if there isn't already one), and add ducks and geese, as well as cows. All of the food required for the animals will be grown on the land. There will eventually be a community bakery, carpentry shop, and blacksmith shop on the property. This is not just a dream for us, but one that we are certain will be fulfilled. The more people, the better. If you or anyone you know is interested, please contact me. We can work something out. I live in the travel trailer now so someone could stay with me until we bought the land. I really hope I can find someone as passionate about this as I am, and someone who is close enough(or willing to move). Thanks for reading. ",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_15pemx,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/15pemx/who_wants_to_join_up_and_start_an/,
1343616485.0,42,archive.org,xddv7,The Techno-Chemical Receipt Book: containing several thousand receipts and processes (1919),47,5,9,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/xddv7/the_technochemical_receipt_book_containing/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/wrcwEhuhiAUxSJ9W.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_xddv7,http://archive.org/details/technochemicalre00bran,
1335031091.0,42,self.SelfSufficiency,sli19,I have decided to start living without money,63,21,137,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/sli19/i_have_decided_to_start_living_without_money/,"I want to show this side of life to others and show that it is indeed possible
http://www.reddit.com/r/LivingWithoutMoney/
please come check it out",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_sli19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/sli19/i_have_decided_to_start_living_without_money/,
1330540126.0,39,besurvival.com,qbmjd,Pasture Raised Chickens Isn’t For The Birds - Pro's and Con's of Pasture Chickens,41,2,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/qbmjd/pasture_raised_chickens_isnt_for_the_birds_pros/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/C6tpmHyhTFEYY0TX.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_qbmjd,http://besurvival.com/homesteading/pasture-raised-chickens-isnt-for-the-birds,
1245855909.0,39,tipnut.com,8v8ul,Grow 100 lbs. Of Potatoes In 4 Square Feet,39,0,12,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/8v8ul/grow_100_lbs_of_potatoes_in_4_square_feet/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_8v8ul.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_8v8ul,http://tipnut.com/grow-potatoes/,
1367283921.0,36,youtube.com,1ddnyg,6 Core Permaculture Techniques - Producing Food Sustainably and Naturally,46,10,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ddnyg/6_core_permaculture_techniques_producing_food/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/-_JXHuPRLWze_ZiF.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1ddnyg,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxAUJ77UGXs&feature=share,
1344282996.0,37,ecolivingadvice.com,xs6er,7 Top Tips For Saving Money When Buying A Greenhouse,43,6,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/xs6er/7_top_tips_for_saving_money_when_buying_a/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/i46o_LrrNJhWMa-f.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_xs6er,http://www.ecolivingadvice.com/cheap-greenhouses-7-top-tips-for-saving-money-on-greenhouses/,
1339890128.0,38,self.SelfSufficiency,v5ora,How can you be self-sufficient if you are using solar and have to replace expensive batteries every few years?,59,21,86,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/v5ora/how_can_you_be_selfsufficient_if_you_are_using/,"Wouldn't living without all the electrical stuff be a loftier goal? People lived for thousands of years without the ""modern conveniences"" we have today. Mankind was for the most part self-sufficient up until the industrial revolution. Do we want to live like ""they"" say we ought to?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_v5ora,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/v5ora/how_can_you_be_selfsufficient_if_you_are_using/,
1338816164.0,37,meristn.posterous.com,uk5da,A Danish-produced television program following Frank Erichsen in his dream of becoming self-sufficient on his newly acquired small farm homestead.,57,20,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/uk5da/a_danishproduced_television_program_following/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_uk5da,http://meristn.posterous.com/a-danish-produced-television-program-followin,
1305645517.0,35,self.SelfSufficiency,hdevx,"I just saved up $5k, a first for me. I know it isn't much, but I want to actually make use of it instead of letting it disappear little by little. Advice?",41,6,41,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/hdevx/i_just_saved_up_5k_a_first_for_me_i_know_it_isnt/,"I just managed to save up $5k at my job (4th job out of college). I have never been able to accumulate this much money before (only been out of school for 2 years). I am 100% debt free, have a truck and pretty much any and all gear I would need (I am a very outdoorsy person: climbing, kayaking, hiking, etc.). I am about to get layed off soon and will be basically free to go and do whatever I want. I know that if I don't make a conscious effort to spend this money wisely that it will dribble away and I will be broke again and I don't know when I will get a job that pays this well again. I want to prepare my self for the uncertain future so my question to you all is what is something smart I can do with this money? I may get another check before work stops so that would be closer to $8k. Any ideas are welcome.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_hdevx,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/hdevx/i_just_saved_up_5k_a_first_for_me_i_know_it_isnt/,
1374532618.0,35,youtube.com,1iuex6,"[Deadfall] Since you guys liked my last video so much, here is my older one. It is a variant of a Dead fall. Please feel welcome to subscribe if you would like to be notified of future videos.",52,17,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1iuex6/deadfall_since_you_guys_liked_my_last_video_so/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/3Fsy3TxR-qqaMMAg.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1iuex6,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SwRqlDT-PE,
1370623596.0,31,climatecolab.impactree.org,1fvdi2,"Have an innovative idea for how to scale renewables, or know someone who does? The MIT Climate CoLab wants to hear it! The creators of the best proposals are invited to present at a conference at MIT and a chance at $10,000. The referrers of the winners also win $2,000!",74,43,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1fvdi2/have_an_innovative_idea_for_how_to_scale/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/1V7SENCMHpFTXKzS.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1fvdi2,http://climatecolab.impactree.org/2190,
1348451829.0,34,self.SelfSufficiency,10ddkd,Since the post asking about what to look for was deleted. Here are links to sites that allow you to search and filter results based on your criteria.,40,6,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/10ddkd/since_the_post_asking_about_what_to_look_for_was/,"Here are some sites that allow you filter by criteria.
Water, Utilities, etc...
http://www.landandfarm.com/
http://www.landwatch.com/
http://www.landsofamerica.com/america/",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_10ddkd,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/10ddkd/since_the_post_asking_about_what_to_look_for_was/,
1337955273.0,34,youtu.be,u4hav,Off the grid lifestyle in Truth or Consequences builds a tight knit community that embraces self sufficiency in their pursuit of a life off the grid.,38,4,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/u4hav/off_the_grid_lifestyle_in_truth_or_consequences/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/LqyStAB-maFH06m5.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_u4hav,http://youtu.be/scCySw44-7I,
1336951674.0,35,motherearthnews.com,tlm5e,Raising flocks of free roam roosters for next to nothing.,50,15,14,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/tlm5e/raising_flocks_of_free_roam_roosters_for_next_to/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/PNNIIiPxTd4qTGih.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_tlm5e,http://www.motherearthnews.com/sustainable-farming/raising-roosters-free-range-meat-zmaz79zsch.aspx,
1326812149.0,32,self.SelfSufficiency,okviy,Can you grow potatoes in a cardboard box?,37,5,30,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/okviy/can_you_grow_potatoes_in_a_cardboard_box/,"I have seen a friend grow potatoes in plastic bags filled with soil/compost. I have no bags handy. Would a cardboard box be able to handle the same job? I worry not because it's very wet here and I figure it would just disintegrate in the rain but I would love it if it would work because I have a lot of spare cardboard.
Has anyone else ever done it? Maybe the cardboard would survive just enough to hold the thing in place... course the potatoes might also decide to grow through it I imagine...",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_okviy,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/okviy/can_you_grow_potatoes_in_a_cardboard_box/,
1307135608.0,34,youtube.com,hr249,"twofer: starting a fire with a bow drill, and a wood burning oven made from bud and a 55 gallon barrel",40,6,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/hr249/twofer_starting_a_fire_with_a_bow_drill_and_a/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_hr249.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_hr249,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1X1SkdA5kw,
1294352549.0,35,alternet.org,exil9,"Do We Have to Live Like Peasants to be Truly Sustainable? -
There has to be a happy medium between living as a poor peasant in an adobe hut and living in a McMansion while driving a Hummer. But how do we find it?",39,4,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/exil9/do_we_have_to_live_like_peasants_to_be_truly/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_exil9.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_exil9,http://www.alternet.org/food/149391/do_we_have_to_live_like_peasants_to_be_truly_sustainable,
1286693707.0,36,motherearthnews.com,dp8mj,Living Fences: Why use barbed wire when you can grow them?,44,8,31,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/dp8mj/living_fences_why_use_barbed_wire_when_you_can/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_dp8mj,http://www.motherearthnews.com/print-article.aspx?id=2147490447,
1251720788.0,31,biology.clc.uc.edu,9ftt6,"Learn to make your own cheeses, yogurt, ginger ale and root beer.",39,8,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/9ftt6/learn_to_make_your_own_cheeses_yogurt_ginger_ale/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_9ftt6.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_9ftt6,http://biology.clc.uc.edu/fankhauser/cheese/cheese.html,
1251141348.0,36,self.SelfSufficiency,9doul,Radical move towards self-sufficiency on 20-80 acres. Advice?,41,5,39,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/9doul/radical_move_towards_selfsufficiency_on_2080/,"Pardon the sockpuppet account, but several workmates read reddit, and well..
Situation:
My personal values have undergone a massive change in the last 10 years, especially since my divorce and getting out of a very destructive and unhappy marriage.
I would like to move out of the Bay Area and buy somewhere between 20-80 acres in the midwest (probably in the Indiana area).
I do not expect to do this immediately. The target timeline is within the next 12-36 months. I want to plan it out in advance, as far as is possible.
I will have $225,000 in cash to start with. I plan on maintaining some (reduced) level of income stream for at least some time after starting this.
On the land, I would like to start by building a large barn, and in a corner of that, building a small 1 bedroom apartment that uses perhaps 1/4 or less of the total barn space.
Living in that apartment, I would then like to build my own house.
In addition, I plan on having or digging a 3 to 5 acre pond on the property, mainly for fish and the water.
I plan on raising chickens and basic vegetables immediately.
In the coming years, I would like to add other animals and plants. I plan on composting, using cover crops to help maintain planting area fertility, and avoid any use of pesticides, etc.
In the house, I plan on using a grey water system, composting toilet, and probably a passive solar design. I would want to utilize wind and probably solar power as well.
I would also capture rainwater off the roofs of the barn and house to collect in underground cisterns.
Ideally, I do not need to be on the grid, on city water, or on any city sewage.
I am still working out whether one of us would retain a full or part-time job, and whether it would ever be feasible for the farm to support itself. So this is a major unknown at this point.
I plan on growing and preserving my own food, including both vegetables and animals. When the fruit trees mature, it will include fruit as well.
I would like to be as self-sufficient as possible, and yes I am willing to work hard to do that.
So reddit, any advice? What are the books I should read? The sites I should check out? The lessons I should learn asap? I would be particularly interested in anything that takes a comprehensive, top-down planning approach.
Any and all help would be greatly appreciated.
EDIT: Wow, thanks to all of you for taking the time to respond-- this is so much more than I had hoped for! I am starting to go through the links and check out recommended books, and I will certainly read them all.
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_9doul,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/9doul/radical_move_towards_selfsufficiency_on_2080/,
1373949480.0,33,self.SelfSufficiency,1ie54n,Building self-sufficient homesteads as a business? (x-post from /r/sustainable_homes),48,15,35,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ie54n/building_selfsufficient_homesteads_as_a_business/,"I'm a 23 year old engineering student in the process of designing and building my first micro-homestead on a 0.7 acre property in East Texas, then helping some friends and relatives that are pursuing the same goal. I'm extremely interested in the self-sufficient lifestyle and several of us have independently decided on using the Monolithic dome as the base structure for its overwhelming resilience and energy efficiency.
My specifications for my first homestead are:
* The house should be large enough (a 30' diameter dome, roughly 700 sq. ft.) to comfortably house one or two occupants either as a main residence, or just be a place for them to get away and relax. I want to design a compact but open living space where nothing feels cramped or short on storage space.
* It should be able to function entirely off-grid through solar panels, and possibly wind turbines, but still connect to grid power for high-energy appliances like the washing machine.
* Be able to collect, filter, and heat all the water needed for drinking, cleaning, aquaculture, and gardening by xeriscaping the property to divert rainwater through an earth-and-gravel filter into a cistern large enough to sustain the occasional East Texas drought. Drinking water can be pumped inside and purified, and another cistern for solar heating the water will be near the bathroom.
* Finally, it should be able to grow enough food to meet the occupants' nutritional needs or at least supplement their diet. The property is located within a homeowner's association where farm animals like goats and chickens are disallowed, so we'll have an aquaponic system to cultivate fish, fruit, and vegetables.
In order to save money and acquaint myself with the nuts-and-bolts of sustainable design and construction, I'll be doing most of the work myself and bringing in contractors for the stuff that absolutely has to be done right the first time.
However, I'm still struggling with questions and considerations such as whether the project is too ""niche"" to be sellable, who I should be expecting to buy a self-sustainable home in the area I'm building in (and therefore what design style to tend towards), and how much I could expect to sell for. I'd appreciate any tips and suggestions you have to give on the matter, I really need some outside constructive criticism from people who have some idea what they're talking about. :)",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_1ie54n,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ie54n/building_selfsufficient_homesteads_as_a_business/,
1367800726.0,33,maximumsurvival.net,1drgb4,Common Techniques for Food Preservation,44,11,0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1drgb4/common_techniques_for_food_preservation/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/fJXFeARMQKvEbxUV.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1drgb4,http://maximumsurvival.net/common-techniques-for-food-preservation/,
1363633562.0,37,self.SelfSufficiency,1ajgs1,How can I calculate the power usage requirements for 2 of us to work off-the-grid?,41,4,15,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ajgs1/how_can_i_calculate_the_power_usage_requirements/,"I have a cottage with a deep cycle battery connected to two solar panels. I can add a windmill (old school one, would just need an alternator added, and trees blocking it trimmed) as well as I can add more batteries in series.
It would ideally power:
LED lights at night (already wired) but also 2 laptops and wireless AP. It would be great to try it for a few weeks and see if it could be an option for long term work-from-home. ",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_1ajgs1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ajgs1/how_can_i_calculate_the_power_usage_requirements/,
1360346871.0,35,self.SelfSufficiency,1855yr,What products should i sell in my selfsufficiency web-shop?,48,13,33,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1855yr/what_products_should_i_sell_in_my_selfsufficiency/,"I'm going to start a selfsufficiency e-shop. Now I'm on a limited budget so what products do you think i should put in my inventory first? Asking in another way which prodcuts would be most needed if you wanted to startup small selfsufficiency/gardening at your home.
E.g. seeds, tools, books, whatever... be specific.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_1855yr,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1855yr/what_products_should_i_sell_in_my_selfsufficiency/,
1358459809.0,31,self.SelfSufficiency,16rz0s,Capturing carbon from wood chimney?,41,10,19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/16rz0s/capturing_carbon_from_wood_chimney/,"I'm in the process of designing an earthship type home. I was wondering, is there a way to use the smoke from a wood stove? maybe increase the carbon levels in the greenhouse? I have heard of an industrial process that uses a chemical reaction to make concrete out of the carbon in the air, it's a fairly new idea but 10-20 years down the road when this house is realized I'm sure the method will be commonplace. Any other ways to capture carbon?
Edit: Mountain suggested a rocket mass heater, turns out this is a great solution. Most of the heat and ash gets collected in the thermal mass area leaving only water vapor and co2 as an output. Also the white ash left over in the stove can be put to use in the garden or making things like soap.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,1358710842.0,,,True,t3_16rz0s,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/16rz0s/capturing_carbon_from_wood_chimney/,
1318645902.0,35,self.SelfSufficiency,lcrvg,I'm building a rope bed for myself...,38,3,14,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/lcrvg/im_building_a_rope_bed_for_myself/,"I'm following a plan that gives instruction for the weaving of the rope itself, but what I want to know is: does anyone have experience with using a ""key"" to tighten the rope as it stretches? Is this easier than tightening the rope by hand? ",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_lcrvg,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/lcrvg/im_building_a_rope_bed_for_myself/,
1309917677.0,35,self.SelfSufficiency,ihpyy,Small Scale Hydropower: Anyone use it/tried it?,37,2,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ihpyy/small_scale_hydropower_anyone_use_ittried_it/,"I've been doing some planning and it seems like hydro would be a great way to add some semi-consistent power generation to my eventual cob paradise.
I just want to hear from anyone who's tried it or uses it or knows anything about it. How hard is it to set up? Did you build a custom generator or order some sort of kit/unit? How much power do you get? Is it consistent? etc.
Any help would be appreciated.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_ihpyy,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ihpyy/small_scale_hydropower_anyone_use_ittried_it/,
1307103530.0,34,self.SelfSufficiency,hqq3s,Any recommendations for a field guide of edible plants for the Eastern U.S.?,36,2,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/hqq3s/any_recommendations_for_a_field_guide_of_edible/,,,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_hqq3s,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/hqq3s/any_recommendations_for_a_field_guide_of_edible/,
1285888886.0,34,imgur.com,dl8ri,My first cotton harvest...,45,11,23,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/dl8ri/my_first_cotton_harvest/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_dl8ri,http://imgur.com/ZiJp0,
1246451492.0,30,instructables.com,8x9v3,How to build a rain water collector,34,4,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/8x9v3/how_to_build_a_rain_water_collector/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_8x9v3,http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-build-a-rain-water-collector/,
1348549830.0,33,theselc.org,10fpfu,California Homemade Food Act signed into law (x/post /r/homestead),37,4,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/10fpfu/california_homemade_food_act_signed_into_law/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/RMZUEuGElBaL09pO.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_10fpfu,http://www.theselc.org/cottage-food-laws/,
1328432871.0,31,self.SelfSufficiency,pbp1f,"Most of the day in the kitchen preserving, freezing and drying.. perishables into long lasting supplies! I'm so proud :)",36,5,19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pbp1f/most_of_the_day_in_the_kitchen_preserving/,"I live in an apartment so self sufficency is tricky, so I'm trying to take the opportunity of bulk, cheap fruit and vegetables and learn how to preserve them. I had a thoroughly enjoyable day and ended up with about 3 litres of tomato sauce, half a dozen jars of jam, parched frozen vegetables, fruit gellato in the freezer, and the food dryer is drying four trays of tomatoes and one tray of fruit leather. This is my first proper effort at preserving a lot of food - it's so satisfying looking at what food I will have for later :)
I would love to hear about other peoples' preserving tips and tricks!
Edit : [Pics](http://imgur.com/a/uDEAr)",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_pbp1f,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/pbp1f/most_of_the_day_in_the_kitchen_preserving/,
1328070725.0,35,self.SelfSufficiency,p5oba,I've submitted a few suggestions for my off-grid home. The latest consensus was that I should plan with curved walls on my earth berm walls. Here's the latest revision - comments welcome!,37,2,32,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/p5oba/ive_submitted_a_few_suggestions_for_my_offgrid/,"Major revision to the off-grid home plans tonight. I have completely revised the plans (while still staying with the same basic layout). The biggest change has been with the rear walls in the plan - they are now curved, so as to add a great amount of strength to the walls supporting the weight of all of the earth piled against it. This plan is also just two apartments, along with wine/mead and beer making facilities (in the top right - the center is designated as storage for ingredients for both) and a great room for entertaining and ""family"" nights for all of us living there (in the lower right). I think I've done pretty well. Next major revision is for the person that is part of this that has requested separate space, as she plans to have kids, and wants to be courteous to the rest of us.
Here are the plans (the reddish brown areas are earth berms, piled against the exterior walls):
[The latest revision, posted on imgur](http://i.imgur.com/GfzZO.png)
Edit: I managed to get it saved as a .png. I have removed the .gif format version and added the .png version. For some reason, the ancient CAD software I'm using saved the brown earth berm fills as blue. Either way, this is a far more readable file (and with a few minor corrections added).
Also, I am adding the single family home that I've also been designing. Its layout is much the same as the apartments in the primary home, but with the addition of a multi-use space to be used as a playroom, practice room (the woman that will live here plays the cello, and practices frequently), or for other uses.
[Here is that space, also posted on imgur.](http://i.imgur.com/QiwYl.png)",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_p5oba,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/p5oba/ive_submitted_a_few_suggestions_for_my_offgrid/,
1276011079.0,31,youtube.com,ccrh1,"A super tiny home built for $15. Yes, fifteen dollars. And people were still living in it, in the mountains of Idaho 30 years later.",44,13,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ccrh1/a_super_tiny_home_built_for_15_yes_fifteen/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_ccrh1.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ccrh1,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTL0dkadocQ,
1254260787.0,34,self-sufficiency-guide.com,9paj8,Self Sufficient Living,39,5,3,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/9paj8/self_sufficient_living/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_9paj8,http://www.self-sufficiency-guide.com,
1368796661.0,31,youtube.com,1eikdx,Amish Sawmill,48,17,20,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1eikdx/amish_sawmill/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/dJTA_WPeDMFmy4Gk.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1eikdx,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlVMe5P5cow,
1362064735.0,30,youtube.com,19ecy5,Old Grist Mill,33,3,3,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/19ecy5/old_grist_mill/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/JGc4ssNZRfzpCzDe.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_19ecy5,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYO8m8T_-Mw,
1351280303.0,33,aprovecho.net,12516v,"Transition to greater self sufficeincy, with the help of our skillbuilding series here at Aprovecho Research Center in Oregon, US. ",36,3,7,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/12516v/transition_to_greater_self_sufficeincy_with_the/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/GNAkkwVQ1DVged7I.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_12516v,http://www.aprovecho.net/programs/transition-technology-skills-workshop-series/,
1338486272.0,33,mehrnews.com,ue6d3,"Iranian Factory; Amazing Architecture and worlds
best fertilizer",38,5,6,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ue6d3/iranian_factory_amazing_architecture_and_worlds/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ue6d3,http://www.mehrnews.com/fa/newsdetail.aspx?NewsID=1375317,
1326658552.0,31,self.SelfSufficiency,oias0,best Pacific Northwest water options?,33,2,21,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/oias0/best_pacific_northwest_water_options/,"I plan to build a small off the grid home in either southern Oregon (Eugene area) or northern California (Eureka area) and was curious about the best options for a home water system. I have read a lot of people talk about collecting water from their roof and storing it in collection tanks. Is this a reliable option, or should/can I drill a well in this area of the country? I know a water runoff system would be cheaper, but would it be enough to live off of as well as lasting me through the summer months?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_oias0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/oias0/best_pacific_northwest_water_options/,
1310623397.0,32,suburblog.com,ip771,Edible Weeds - Common Mallow,33,1,5,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ip771/edible_weeds_common_mallow/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ip771,http://www.suburblog.com/2011/07/edible-weeds-common-mallow.html,
1294252751.0,33,self.SelfSufficiency,ewqjw,I'm interested in building an underground house.,37,4,39,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ewqjw/im_interested_in_building_an_underground_house/,"I've been reading ""Back to Basics"" the third edition, and it does support the concept of building and underground structure. My SO and I have an interest in running a farm and perhaps building a house into a hill, unfortunately, the land his family has left him is mostly field.
I know a need appropriate drainage for water, but know very, very little about architecture and especially nothing living underground.
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_ewqjw,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ewqjw/im_interested_in_building_an_underground_house/,
1292897906.0,35,self.SelfSufficiency,ep3by,So is anyone here actually working on becoming self sufficient? ,38,3,108,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ep3by/so_is_anyone_here_actually_working_on_becoming/,"I mean, do you own land, have an energy efficient house, equipment to farm with, livestock, water supply, etc. Or is it mostly a dream for you? What have you done towards self sufficiency? Are you there yet?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_ep3by,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ep3by/so_is_anyone_here_actually_working_on_becoming/,
1271462769.0,28,richsoil.com,bs2aj,raising chickens 2.0: no more coop and run!,42,14,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/bs2aj/raising_chickens_20_no_more_coop_and_run/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_bs2aj.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_bs2aj,http://www.richsoil.com/raising-chickens.jsp,
1250361398.0,32,self.SelfSufficiency,9ayra,The FoxFire series. Must have books for Self Sufficiency. Online readable versions to check out before spending money on hard copies. ,37,5,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/9ayra/the_foxfire_series_must_have_books_for_self/,"Since its been a little dead around here, I thought I try and keep the subscribers busy for a while.
[FoxFire1](http://www.scribd.com/doc/8961411/Foxfire-One)
[FoxFire2](http://www.scribd.com/doc/8961376/Foxfire-Two)
[FoxFire3](http://www.scribd.com/doc/8961322/Foxfire-Three)
[FoxFire5](http://www.scribd.com/doc/6476078/The-Foxfire-Book-Volume-05)
Not sure where #4 went.
Note the .pdf download button. ",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_9ayra,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/9ayra/the_foxfire_series_must_have_books_for_self/,
1365120616.0,30,self.SelfSufficiency,1bp6mt,Your ideal homestead?,38,8,48,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1bp6mt/your_ideal_homestead/,"I currently live in Northwest Florida. I've lived in the same house for the last fifteen years. My brother and I were raised there. My father passed away in this house a couple years ago. I've been trying to come up with the best and most efficient way to turn my property into a very small homestead. I want to live as self sufficient as possible but unfortunately my yard is fairly small, in the ""suburbs"", and not near any natural water sources. So obviously my options are limited. I planned on never leaving this house simply because of the sentimental value but the more I think about it, the more I realize that it's just not gonna be conducive to the lifestyle I wish to live. My brother says he is going to move out and get a place of his own eventually so I've been playing with the idea of selling the house once he does and finding my ""ideal homestead"". I want to be able to live off the land, grow, hunt, and raise my own food. Right now, my number one idea of a new home would be in the Rockies. What are some other places that would be good for this kind of lifestyle?
**TL;DR: If you had unlimited funds, where would you want to homestead (CONUS) and why?**",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_1bp6mt,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1bp6mt/your_ideal_homestead/,
1361233370.0,29,self.SelfSufficiency,18s9ox,Businesses to ask for a 55-gallon plastic or metal drum?,37,8,33,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/18s9ox/businesses_to_ask_for_a_55gallon_plastic_or_metal/,"I want to make a compost tumbler, and several sites I consulted suggested asking local businesses for their used drums. What kind of places should I ask?",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_18s9ox,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/18s9ox/businesses_to_ask_for_a_55gallon_plastic_or_metal/,
1333849935.0,29,self.SelfSufficiency,ryo6i,I have been finding some good websites on Eco Villages and here is one of them,36,7,18,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ryo6i/i_have_been_finding_some_good_websites_on_eco/,"these people are brilliant, coming up with all kinds of ways to live self sufficient and low impact, I hope to find some similar community soon after I get out of the military.
http://www.livinginthefuture.org/",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_ryo6i,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ryo6i/i_have_been_finding_some_good_websites_on_eco/,
1320846623.0,30,reddit.com,m62g7,Forest gardening sub-reddit created,39,9,0,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/m62g7/forest_gardening_subreddit_created/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_m62g7,http://www.reddit.com/r/forestgardening/,
1303694934.0,33,reddit.com,gwnm9,New subreddit dedicated to ISBU (shipping container) building construction and living.,37,4,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gwnm9/new_subreddit_dedicated_to_isbu_shipping/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_gwnm9,http://www.reddit.com/r/ISBU/,
1301158710.0,30,youtube.com,gc0fv,Michael Pilarski is growing stinging nettles on purpose. He sells the tops (for food) in the spring. He sells the seeds in late summer (urinary tract medicine) and gets $10 per pound for the roots in early fall,64,34,10,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gc0fv/michael_pilarski_is_growing_stinging_nettles_on/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_gc0fv.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_gc0fv,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2vXlEPhwBE,
1298662067.0,28,self.SelfSufficiency,fsqgb,Has anyone here gone from a middle-class/suburban upbringing to the road to sulf-sufficiency - with no experience?,35,7,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/fsqgb/has_anyone_here_gone_from_a_middleclasssuburban/,"The more I think about it, the less I can imagine myself working within the framework of modern society. I stumbled upon this subreddit a while ago, and I've been reading posts and articles about self-sufficiency, solar/geothermal energy, gardening, etc. It all seems fascinating, even to embrace partly for a while with one foot still on the grid, so to speak. However, the ideas of self-sufficiency are very interesting to me, and [this AMA](http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/a733s/iama_guy_who_dropped_out_from_the_rat_race_didnt/) is particularly inspiring.
I don't have many expectations of what that life would be like, but least of all do I expect it would be easy. The task seems daunting for the most experienced grower or handyman but virtually impossible for someone who lacks those skills. To achieve this lifestyle, I wouldn't be afraid of hard work - my trysts with corporate America are sufficient motivation, as is my fascination with plants and the Earth as a system, and my fervent desire to do something so life-affirming as provide for myself. I'm still a few years out from any of this (sophomore in college right now, full scholarship so I'll come out with no debt), but I'd be interesting in hearing about the experiences of others who may have taken a similar path.
In fact, I'd be interested in hearing *anyone's* experiences with self-sufficiency, and what skills and qualities you've found most crucial. The more I learn, the more inspired I get.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_fsqgb,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/fsqgb/has_anyone_here_gone_from_a_middleclasssuburban/,
1292477786.0,34,oldtymestockings.com,emnup,Sock knitting machines,37,3,25,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/emnup/sock_knitting_machines/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_emnup.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_emnup,http://www.oldtymestockings.com/SockMachineMuseum.html,
1290496462.0,32,self.SelfSufficiency,eae8f,"so, this subreddit has been quiet, does anyone have any
self-sufficiency projects, plans, discussion topics etc. to
talk about?",33,1,71,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/eae8f/so_this_subreddit_has_been_quiet_does_anyone_have/,"my own projects are limited to a vege garden at the moment where I am just trying to figure out what I can grow and how to do it effectively. I am trying to save as much as possible at the moment so I can get my own land, but there may be a few years of work before I can realistically do that. Once I get some land, I plan to go as self-sufficient as I can, just because I think I would enjoy it. And if I end up not liking it, well, that doesn't matter either, at least I had a go.
My main goals at the moment are to learn as much as I can, get as many ideas as I can, so that when I eventually start implementing things I have a good idea of 'best practices', also I just really enjoy reading about other peoples self-sufficiency experiences.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,True,,,True,t3_eae8f,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/eae8f/so_this_subreddit_has_been_quiet_does_anyone_have/,
1281882653.0,32,youtube.com,d1e7i,This guy went from using four cords of wood each year to heat his home to using a half cord of yard trimmings,47,15,13,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/d1e7i/this_guy_went_from_using_four_cords_of_wood_each/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_d1e7i.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_d1e7i,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jfag47dRCs,
1248799317.0,31,lehmans.com,95co8,An online catalog of useful non-electric products for the self-sufficient person. ,34,3,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/95co8/an_online_catalog_of_useful_nonelectric_products/,,,False,http://thumbs.reddit.com/t3_95co8.png,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_95co8,http://www.lehmans.com/,
1362529061.0,34,self.SelfSufficiency,19qpyr,Looking for info on ground cooling (air blowing in tubes underground),38,4,25,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/19qpyr/looking_for_info_on_ground_cooling_air_blowing_in/,"I'd like to make my own system where, in the summer, hot air is taken out of my house, blows through plastic tubes underground to cool the air, and returns to my house to cool it.
* What's the best subreddit for that?
* Anyone have any websites for calculating how much tubing is in my loop?
* Can anyone recommend any fans? My phase 1 will be a fan turned on manually when I need it.
* What other Google search terms can I use?
Thanks!
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_19qpyr,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/19qpyr/looking_for_info_on_ground_cooling_air_blowing_in/,
1360075742.0,32,self.SelfSufficiency,17xmno,Does anyone have experience using biodiesel produce energy for their home?,37,5,20,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/17xmno/does_anyone_have_experience_using_biodiesel/,Hi. I'm looking into using biodiesel to power my home. Has anyone tried something like this before here? The biodiesel would run a diesel motor that would run an alternator that would store energy in batteries.,,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_17xmno,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/17xmno/does_anyone_have_experience_using_biodiesel/,
1359770556.0,28,self.SelfSufficiency,17qcxw,Sea Nomads? People have been living that way for millennia why can't we?...,37,9,35,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/17qcxw/sea_nomads_people_have_been_living_that_way_for/,"Yes this idea is out there... Some will say it can't be done. What I'm looking to do is create a think tank, a dialogue that could see this dream become a reality. Or if it's not feasible put it to rest.
But Land isn't cheap, I'm convinced it's possible to create floating platforms for far cheaper per square foot than land is. I've thought of some cheap and what I feel would be effective floatation devises and construction methods. For making platforms that may be linked together reaching hundreds of feet. Though likely there are far better ways out there that have eluded me...
Upon the platforms settlers could generate wind & solar energy whilst raise small animals. Crops could be grown via aquaponics in green houses. Rain water would need to be collected...
Wind and waves could be an ruinous issue, hopefully firm anchoring could help mitigate waves. The calmest sea's possible would have to picked, this for me is the make or break issue. Much research and experimentation would need to be done...
",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_17qcxw,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/17qcxw/sea_nomads_people_have_been_living_that_way_for/,
1342028288.0,28,youtube.com,we7nx,living without money,39,11,16,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/we7nx/living_without_money/,,,False,http://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/yWoEhninc-uyn2zU.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_we7nx,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=339Xfbm_LkM&feature=related,
1338485409.0,28,commenthow.com,ue5ll,"""TERMITE NEST"" CITIES -- Nylo-Cement",36,8,1,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/ue5ll/termite_nest_cities_nylocement/,,,False,http://a.thumbs.redditmedia.com/RwC0ua6WNE9y9PW0.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_ue5ll,http://www.commenthow.com/article/display?viewAllSteps=1&id=635570,
1336567349.0,27,ofanselm.com,telu5,Homemade room freshener and diaper bin freshener using essential oils,32,5,2,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/telu5/homemade_room_freshener_and_diaper_bin_freshener/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/XX-vZNHEgoRS744v.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_telu5,http://www.ofanselm.com/2012/05/babies-stink.html,
1335990055.0,27,self.SelfSufficiency,t3ucv,Recycle My Aqua?,36,9,20,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/t3ucv/recycle_my_aqua/,"Back when I was a kid I recall my neighbor draining his laundry washer water into his back yard...the vegitation around that pipe was crazy! So, I got to thinking, how would I fare if I disconnected my drain from the shower, the washer and the sinks and redirected those lines to a storage tank (the tank can be located easily downhill for gravity pull), reconnected my supply line to the commode (we have only one) to the tank, and watered my garden and grass from the tank as well? Thats a lot of water that gets wasted ""down the drain"" w/o a great deal of chemicals.
I've already got the PVC, 12V water pumps, batteries and a nice solar panel (BP Solar SX10M) for charging the batts.
All that I'm lacking is someone to advise me of some health concern that I'm not aware of. Outside of that I will draw the schematic, build and report back to you guys with my project.
Thanks!",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_t3ucv,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/t3ucv/recycle_my_aqua/,
1334433120.0,29,self.SelfSufficiency,s9uoz,Any good examples of a truly sustaining house that effectively manages all inputs and outputs?,34,5,19,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/s9uoz/any_good_examples_of_a_truly_sustaining_house/,,,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_s9uoz,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/s9uoz/any_good_examples_of_a_truly_sustaining_house/,
1326571994.0,29,pinterest.com,oh3kq,Permaculture Bookshelf Pinterest Board,35,6,10,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/oh3kq/permaculture_bookshelf_pinterest_board/,,,False,http://d.thumbs.redditmedia.com/jOd_P3TfGevJQXB-.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_oh3kq,http://pinterest.com/hollymwood/permaculture-books/,
1324929876.0,29,self.SelfSufficiency,nretl,Anyone have a good solar charger for devices and batteries they would recommend?,32,3,12,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/nretl/anyone_have_a_good_solar_charger_for_devices_and/,"I have a gift card for Amazon and I want to get a solar charger for portable devices and batteries, but the reviews on Amazon are a little untrustworthy. I find the same review written in other places, same wording and all. It would be nice to hear from some actual users.",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_nretl,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/nretl/anyone_have_a_good_solar_charger_for_devices_and/,
1309101677.0,31,blog.mikro2nd.net,i9ktx,Self-sufficiency turns out to be a profoundly political choice. The start of a series of articles on the meaning and raison d'être of self-sufficiency.,38,7,8,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/i9ktx/selfsufficiency_turns_out_to_be_a_profoundly/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_i9ktx,http://blog.mikro2nd.net/2011/06/what-is-self-sufficiency.html#more,
1302789986.0,30,self.SelfSufficiency,gpwpg,Self Sufficiency in the winter?,32,2,24,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gpwpg/self_sufficiency_in_the_winter/,"I want to start gardening and being more self sufficient, but I live in the US northeast. I can easily get a great garden going in the late spring throughout the summer, but after that, what the hell do you do? It gets cold up here in the winter months and can easily accumulate a foot of snow or more per storm.
What are your winter self sufficiency practices??",,False,self,t5_2r0yw,False,,,True,t3_gpwpg,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/gpwpg/self_sufficiency_in_the_winter/,
1251941144.0,32,survivalblog.com,9grop,"Use post-1982 zinc pennies to make a Zamak, a light, strong alloy that melts at campfire temperatures.",33,1,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/9grop/use_post1982_zinc_pennies_to_make_a_zamak_a_light/,,,False,default,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_9grop,http://www.survivalblog.com/2009/09/letter_re_a_practical_use_for.html,
1373882459.0,26,guardian.co.uk,1ibxks,Humans: the real threat to life on Earth,43,17,3,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/1ibxks/humans_the_real_threat_to_life_on_earth/,,,False,http://e.thumbs.redditmedia.com/6oyxNDyDrLFfgv-p.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_1ibxks,http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2013/jun/30/population-growth-wipe-out-life-earth,
1354021950.0,25,thesurvivalpodcast.com,13vdz4,13 New Skills Challenge.,41,16,3,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/13vdz4/13_new_skills_challenge/,,,False,http://f.thumbs.redditmedia.com/NMzDxw_pLRhe28dG.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_13vdz4,http://www.thesurvivalpodcast.com/13-in-13-challenge-to-roll-out-soon,
1353001404.0,28,survivallife.com,138zdk,DIY Cordage,48,20,4,http://www.reddit.com/r/SelfSufficiency/comments/138zdk/diy_cordage/,,,False,http://c.thumbs.redditmedia.com/JlZCiuEcxyTCDUmJ.jpg,t5_2r0yw,False,,,False,t3_138zdk,http://www.survivallife.com/category/survival-gear/homemade-survival-equipment/,