Developing efficient methods for extracting moisture from the air (condensing atmospheric humidity) has long been a goal of scientists and engineers. The AirDrop irrigation system by Edward Linnacre is one of the more recent inventions for extracting water from the surrounding air.
While we’re imagining Constructed Wetlands (yesterday’s blog post), let’s consider how to build a mini-oasis around our homes. What features would you include?
Many natural builders are moving to rural areas to escape the hustle, bustle, pollution, high costs and, of course, oppressive building codes. Sometimes the areas they move to are very arid. Constructing man-made wetlands can greatly improve the environment around the home as evidenced by the accompanying photos. With a bit of time, effort and research, you could create a mini oasis that cools your home, supplies healthy food, and adds colorful and scented flowers that attracts wildlife such as birds and butterflies. And who wouldn’t want a cool, beautiful, relaxing place to hang out when temperatures are sweltering?
These luxurious fountains can be added to your home at extremely low cost if you use natural materials such as stone, driftwood and plants, and do the work yourself (DIY). Get creative with recycled materials such as chipped pots from yard sales and you could slash the cost to almost free.
“Josef “Sepp” Holzer is a farmer, author, and an international consultant for natural agriculture.
The following photos show how gates can dramatically affect the appearance of a home. From simple to classic, each has a character all its own. It’s fun to browse websites and catalogs for design ideas to help visualize how your home will look.