We finally got our pump house plastered at our homestead. We waited until after the rainy season to make sure the bags were dry. It’s looking pretty good considering the whole thing only cost about $200-$300. We had bags, salvaged wood and old roofing tiles left over from previous projects. The door and cement plaster were the only significant expenses.
sustainable
Introduction to Earthbag Course in Joshua Tree, CA
Hello All! We are holding an Introduction to Earthbag Course in Joshua Tree, CA on the 25th of January at 9am-5pm. We will be giving basic information about the techniques, design, and creative properties that earthbag construction entails. Please join us if you can to enjoy the day (it’s always sunny in the desert.) Also see our links below to keep updated with what is going on in our neck of the desert; and sometimes woods.
The real way to add straw bales to containers
David W. Reed shows how to wrap shipping containers in bales.
Compost in Place
People have asked about our lack of compost piles and bins at our new homestead. Here’s an overview of the composting method we’re using on our forest garden. Compost happens no matter what approach you use. We prefer no till gardening — get out of the way and let nature take care of things. Simply spread soil amendments on the garden as time and money allow and then let it break down naturally. The following article from Dave’s Garden explains the process in more detail.
Beautiful, affordable architecture from pallet racks
“Freeman Murray cofounded Jaaga, a Bangalore-based company aimed at helping developing countries build core infrastructure from pallet racks — easily-assembled, heavy-duty warehouse shelving components.”
Jason’s Cordwood House
“Jason and Alayne discovered this great foundation that was built with a wise eye towards passive solar design and insulative walls. They are now building a home incorporating other smart features such as cordwood walls and a living roof which will have rainwater pumped with a solar pump up to it, irrigating the roof and keeping the house cool.”