[Okc] More about this Thursday's Green Team homesteading presentation

[Shields, Susie]

Join DEQ Green Team members this Thursday from 11:30am-12:30pm fon the first floor of the DEQ, 707 N. Robinson, for a brown bag presentation on homesteading. There will be an opportunity to interact with the presenter and ask any questions you might have.

> The Homestead School
> Living "off-the-grid"
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>      "Appropriate technology reminds us that before we choose our tools and 
>      techniques, we must choose our dreams and values."
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>     	In 1977, Bruce Johnson and Barbara Hagan began work to create their dream of a small homestead that would be a pleasant place to live and work. It would be a place that received energy from the sun and the wind, and a place where they could grow healthy food to eat.  It is still a work in progress, but they have discovered that the dream can be made into reality.
>      	In May of the same year, they pitched a tent, drilled their well and began construction of their simple home using recycled lumber.  Now they have a comfortable home powered by renewable energy, an organic garden, chickens and bees and a lifestyle that is satisfying, less polluting and keeps them tuned to natural cycles.
>      	A small wind generator sits on top of a 54-foot tower and transforms the energy of the wind into electricity. Photovoltaic (solar electricity) panels are installed in several sunny locations. Storage batteries are used to store electricity for times when the wind is not blowing or the sun is not shining. Hot water is provided by a solar hot water heater. Also on the rood of the house is a solar hot air collector. A small fan brings the sun-heated air into the house. Snug-fitting shades keep in the heat on winter nights.
>      	Bruce and Barbara grow many of the vegetables they eat in an organic garden. They feel that gardening provides for both physical and spiritual well being. A small flock of laying hens in a mobile coop help fertilize and cultivate the soil.  They are interested in gardening without the aid of fossil fuels and enjoy the feel of good hand tools. They also get some help from some battery powered tools that include a walking tractor, compost shredder and a rotary tiller.
>      	Renewable energy systems are dependable, quiet and clean. They make independence possible, and encourage conservation by making you aware of your use of resources. Relying on a renewable energy system puts you in touch with natural cycles, requiring that you be thoughtful about your activities.
>      	Bruce and Barbara love to share the knowledge they have gained from living with alternative energies and the lifestyle that goes with it.  They sometimes hold workshops at their "Homestead School," studying lessons taught by the sun, wind, water and earth. The plants and animals that inhabit the five acre site, 7605 N. Post Road, are also instructors. 
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