
We must consider a number of things when switching to an off-grid environment: power, food, energy, defense, etc. As with any large project, it's best to boil it down to a few first steps. That way, you make progress without feeling overrun by a to-do list. The article below talks about how to correctly tackle one of the most important elements to building a sustainable living situation: food.
Like any other major decision in life, you should take the time to consider your options, your budget, your goals, and any applicable laws or regulations in the area you intend to settle down.
Instead of attempting to grow all of your own food the first year, start with a smaller vegetable garden to supplement your other food sources, this way you can get used to the work it takes, and a setback won’t be nearly as devastating to your food supply or your confidence. Find others who are also starting on the homesteading way of life in your area and work together to achieve larger goals in order to reduce the workload while increasing productivity. A friend or two taking the journey with you can make the entire process more enjoyable and you can learn from one another as well. As you start to produce your own food, learn different preservation techniques. Canning is something most of our grandparents did just as part of life, and most of us have fond memories of the fruits, jams, preserves and various pickled vegetables (even eggs).
Over the course of a few years you will not only find that you have progressed in your homesteading efforts, but that you did so with less stress than you would have, had you tried to do too much too soon. While growing your own food is likely to be one of the first tasks you undertake, you can also find ways to make your own household cleaners, fertilizers (composting for example), and besides fruits and vegetables, you can also start with small “herds” or “flocks” of livestock as well. Chickens are popular and can even be raised in urban areas as long as the local laws permit.
Do you have any other tips for someone who is transitioning to an off-grid lifestyle?
Article Source: Off Grid World
