environment | Big Owl's Tree

When it warms up just a bit, I’m gonna get to work on my first prototype for the farm. I just ordered a couple of the parts I need, and they should be here within the next couple of weeks. For now, I’m mostly gonna focus on the frames, and I’m gonna start with a wooden structure because I have a bunch of old boards that need to be put to use. In the long run, I’ll probably make them out of PVC or some metal, but during the learning process, I’m gonna use materials already in hand.

This should be fun. The basic shape I have in mind is very simple and straightforward. All I have to work out are a couple of structural concerns for weight and the downward slope for the shelving. Once I have those things worked out, it shouldn’t take too long to build. I’ll try to add an update later today on how it went. For now, I’m gonna enjoy a second cup of coffee and relax for a few.

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Here’s an update on the farm: We’ve stopped focusing on clearing land for the time being to work on cleaning out and renovating the building. Since the farm will specialize in hydroponic production for the vegetables, the building will be the hub of operations. We’ve made great progress so far and should have electricity back on in the next few weeks.

The goal right now is to get the first hydro unit purchased and installed by the end of this year and do a couple of test crops before spring. More than likely we’ll start with tomatoes and cucumbers, but we’ll see what is in strongest demand before committing to anything. Once we see how well the production is, we’ll look into expanding the number of units throughout the spring.

Also, we’re working on the solar panel installation. If all goes well, we may have that side up and running before too long. I’m very excited about the possibilities with that. The start-up costs are tremendous, but long-term, the units pay for themselves within a three to five years. Also, for the long-term sustainability of an organic farm, renewable energy is a must.

So that’s a more detailed update of what’s going on.