Not The Farmers Wife CJ Steedman

Week 2  Off-Grid Water Collection and Sewerage

- Brief introduction to the episode's main topic: Off-Grid Water Collection and Sewerage.

- Overview of the importance of off-grid water solutions for sustainable living and self-sufficiency.

 

Exploring Rainwater Harvesting Systems


What is rainwater harvesting and how does it work?
Benefits of using rainwater harvesting systems on the homestead.
Different types of rainwater harvesting systems (dams, tanks, swales etc.).
Factors to consider when designing and implementing a rainwater harvesting system.
Practical tips for maximizing rainwater collection efficiency.
Regulations and legal considerations for rainwater harvesting in different regions.
Personal anecdotes or experiences with rainwater harvesting systems.

 

Implementing Greywater Recycling Techniques


What is greywater and how can it be recycled for reuse?
Benefits of greywater recycling for off-grid living.
Different methods for treating and recycling greywater (biological filters, mulch basins, etc.).
Best practices for safely and effectively recycling greywater on the homestead.
Addressing common concerns and misconceptions about greywater recycling.
Success stories of homesteaders implementing greywater recycling techniques.

 

Off-Grid Toilet Options and Composting Toilets


Overview of off-grid toilet options (septic, composting, dry, incinerating)
Benefits and drawbacks of different off-grid toilet systems.
Considerations for choosing and installing a composting toilet on the homestead.
Other off-grid toilet options and their suitability for different homestead setups.
Personal experiences or testimonials from homesteaders using off-grid toilet solutions.

 

Sustainable Water Management Practices


Importance of sustainable water management for off-grid living.
Strategies for reducing water consumption on the homestead.
Techniques for capturing and using greywater from everyday activities.
Tips for preventing water waste and leakage in plumbing systems.
Incorporating water-saving appliances and fixtures into the homestead.
Rainwater catchment design considerations for optimal water management.

Off-Grid Homesteading 

Week 1  Solar Power Solutions

- Brief introduction to the episode's main topic: Solar Power Solutions for Homesteads.

- Overview of the importance of solar power in achieving off-grid living and self-sustainability.

 

Introduction to Solar Power on the Homestead


What is solar power and how does it work? Battery versus grid feed
Benefits of using solar power on the homestead. Costs, no grid connection, no outages etc
Overview of solar energy systems and components.
Common misconceptions about solar power debunked. Must be sunny, expensive, maintenance, unreliable, environmentally friendly
Personal anecdotes or experiences with solar power introduction.

 

Choosing the Right Solar Panels and Equipment


Different types of solar panels and their pros and cons. Mono, poly or thin film solar panels
Factors to consider when selecting solar panels for your homestead. Poly cheapest, mono slightly more efficient, thin film heavier and less efficient but really cheap.
Other essential equipment needed for a solar energy system (inverters, batteries, etc.).
Tips for assessing your energy needs and sizing your solar system. How many panels (which is really what size panels) and batteries.
Budget considerations and financing options for solar power installations. $20K+ to have a power connection, and then monthly bills. Batteries between $250 up to hundreds of thousands

 

Solar Power Installation Tips and Tricks


Planning and designing your solar power system layout. Roof or ground, batteries
Steps involved in the solar panel installation process.
DIY vs. professional installation: Factors to consider.
Troubleshooting common installation challenges.

 

Maintaining and Maximizing Solar Power Efficiency


Importance of regular maintenance for solar energy systems. Washing and checking batteries
Signs of potential issues with your solar power system and how to address them. Batteries starting to go flat. 
Strategies for optimizing solar power efficiency throughout the year. Understanding your household consumption, alternative energy in winter
Incorporating energy-saving practices to maximize solar power usage. Not running things at night etc
Long-term sustainability considerations for solar power systems. Plan and budget for batteries, look at a wind turbine to help, and be conservative with power.

This episode discusses the death of animals, if this upsets you please speak to someone, family or friend for support. If you are uncomfortable speaking to them please speak to a support service in your area.

The realities of homesteading and farming mean that you will have to deal with animal death regularly, and if this is not something you, or anyone living with you, can manage then my very blunt advice is to not go into homesteading or farming involving animals.

Livestock cannot communicate with us what the problem is, so animal health is, for the most part, an educated guess. And while some people, myself included, are pretty good at understanding what is happening, it is still a guess. This ability comes with time and experience.

During the learning process, you may get things wrong and animals may die. If that raises emotions you cannot manage then do not become a livestock guardian.

 

Realities of Rural Living - Episode 60

Before women make the transition to rural living, whether in Australia or the United States, they must consider several realities of rural life:


Isolation: Rural areas can be isolated, with fewer neighbours and limited access to amenities and services. Women should assess their comfort level with solitude and consider how they will maintain social connections and support networks.
Limited Services: Rural areas may have limited access to healthcare, emergency services, public transportation, and other essential services. Women should consider the availability of these services and plan accordingly for their needs.
Workload: Farming and homesteading require significant time and effort. Women should be prepared for the physical demands of tasks such as gardening, animal care, maintenance, and other farm chores. Balancing work and personal life can be challenging in a rural setting.
Financial Considerations: Starting a farm or homestead requires upfront investment and ongoing expenses. Women should carefully consider the financial implications, including land costs, equipment, supplies, and potential income streams. They should also have a plan for generating income and managing finances in a rural economy.
Climate and Environmental Factors: Rural areas may be subject to extreme weather conditions, such as droughts, floods, wildfires, and severe storms. Women should be prepared to adapt to these environmental challenges and implement strategies for resilience and sustainability.
Access to Education: Families with children should consider the quality of local schools and educational opportunities in rural areas. Women should assess the availability of educational resources and extracurricular activities for their children.
Safety and Security: Rural areas may have lower crime rates compared to urban areas, but women should still prioritize safety and security. They should be aware of potential risks such as wildlife encounters, property crimes, and emergencies, and take measures to protect themselves and their property.
Community Integration: Building connections with neighbours and becoming involved in the local community is essential for social support and collaboration. Women should consider how they will integrate into their new community and contribute to its well-being.
Self-Reliance and Resilience: Rural living requires a degree of self-reliance and resilience. Women should be prepared to troubleshoot problems independently, adapt to changing circumstances, and persevere through setbacks.

By carefully considering these realities and conducting thorough research and planning, women can make informed decisions about whether rural living is the right choice for them and their families.

Week 5 of Goat Keeping 101 Episode 59

Breeding

Terminology first

Doe or Nanny

Billy or Buck

Doeling or Buckling or Kid

Wether

First Freshener

Single or Multiple

Lactation

Gestation

How to Manage Breeding and Kidding

Why do you want to breed?

Or should I just have wethers

A doe of breeding age and suitability

Keeping a Buck or using another breeders buck

AI or a Buck

Running Bucks with the herd

Gestation period

Kidding time - can you handle the kidding process

What to expect

When things go wrong

Milking process

Milking issues

How to keep a goat in milk

Can you just keep milking?

Biosecurity

Vaccinations and illnesses

LongTerm Planning and Sustainability

Join a goat community, online or in person

Find good books about goat keeping, ask for recommendations

Buy your goats from someone who is ok with you going back to them to ask questions

Considering the long-term commitment of goat-keeping and planning for the future.

Reflection and Enjoyment

Taking time to appreciate the joys and challenges of goat keeping.

Title Week 4 Nurturing Your Goats Health, Nutrition, and Preventative Care

Welcome back to our homesteading journey, where each week brings us closer to mastering the art of goat keeping!

This week, we delve into the critical realm of health, nutrition, and preventive care for our beloved caprine companions. So, grab your notebook and let's ensure our goats are thriving in every way possible!

Identifying Common Health Issues Know Your Goats Educate yourself on recognizing signs of health versus illness. Get to know your goats intimately, from the lustre of their coats to their typical behaviour. Familiarity is key to spotting deviations from the norm.

The Big Four Keep a vigilant eye out for parasites (both internal and external), injuries, nutritional deficiencies, and diseases.

Internal Parasites Bottle Jaw and FAMACHA Score Learn to recognize symptoms like bottle jaw and how to perform a FAMACHA score. This simple test checks the colour of the inner eyelid to gauge anemia, a common sign of internal parasites.

Management External parasites are relatively manageable, but vigilant observation is crucial. Regularly check your goats for lice or nits by running your hand against the hair. Treatments are available at livestock shops for easy management.

External Parasites Managing external parasites in goats is relatively straightforward. One of the easiest ways to check for external parasites is by running your hand against the direction of the hair growth. This simple action allows you to detect any lice, nits, or other parasites clinging to the goat's hair fibres. Additionally, observe the goat's skin for signs of irritation or damage caused by these pests. For treatment, there are various medications available at your local livestock shop specifically designed to control external parasites. These treatments are easy to administer and typically do not require veterinary intervention unless the infestation is severe. I use a powder application on my goats, and every six months, my trusted veterinarian provides a blue spray for me to apply to the goats' backs after they've been shorn. This simple routine helps keep external parasites at bay, ensuring the comfort and wellbeing of my goats.

Injuries and Wound Care Preparedness While injuries are rare with good fencing and housing, it's essential to be prepared. Keep bandaging materials and wound spray on hand for minor injuries. In severe cases, have a plan in place for assessment and potential euthanasia if necessary.

Nutritional Deficiencies Detection Monitor your goats' condition and coat for signs of nutritional deficiencies. Dull, dry coats may indicate a lack of essential nutrients. Prevention Provide a mineral block in the paddock to ensure goats have access to vital nutrients. Goats are intuitive creatures and will self-regulate their intake.

Disease Management Vaccination Vaccination is a vital tool in disease prevention. Discuss vaccination schedules with your vet to protect your herd against common diseases. Preparedness Have a plan in place for disease outbreaks, including whether to treat or euthanize unvaccinated animals. Preparation is key to navigating health crises effectively.

Veterinary Support Vet Relationship Build a rapport with a vet knowledgeable about goats. Regular checkups and consultations are invaluable for proactive health management.

Udder Care Udder Health Regularly inspect your goats' udders for signs of abnormalities, such as lumps or heat. Prompt attention to issues like mastitis can prevent serious complications.

Preventative Healthcare Routine Prevention is Key Establish a comprehensive healthcare routine, including vaccination, worming schedules, and regular hoof trimming.

Prevention is always better than cure. Observation Spend time observing and interacting with your goats daily to detect any emerging health issues promptly. Additional Insights Vet Consultation Having a good relationship with a vet is vital. Seek their guida