Boat Issues and Soil Testing | Building The Homestead Series
Hello, friends! Ryan here from Backroads Homesteading. Today, I want to share some updates on our homestead journey, focusing on soil testing for our garden beds and our boat repair adventures.
Soil Testing: Laying the Foundation for a Productive Garden
On the homestead front, we’ve been busy preparing our garden beds. We received some mulch from a new friend, which we initially planned to use for walkways. However, upon closer inspection, we realized it contained a mix of dirt, leaves, and other composting materials. We’ve decided to use this mulch in the bottom of our raised beds for a hugelkultur approach, which will help improve soil structure and fertility.
We also tilled some of the composting material into our clay-based soil to prevent compaction and improve nutrient availability. Our neighbor kindly brought over a tractor to help us work on the fence line, and we took the opportunity to finish collecting soil samples from our North Field.
After mixing the samples and removing any large organic matter, we’re sending them off for analysis. This will help us understand what amendments our soil needs to support a healthy, productive garden. We’re also making some adjustments to our raised beds, reducing their height from three layers to two to conserve wood and create more beds.
As we wait for the soil test results, we’re excited to start planning our garden layout and choosing the best crops for our soil conditions. It’s all about creating a sustainable, productive homestead that can support our family and community.
Boat Repairs: A Surprising Challenge
We recently noticed some issues with our boat, specifically in the battery chamber. Upon inspection, we found a significant amount of corrosion, likely caused by open-cell batteries leaking acid as the boat moved through the water. This was a surprising challenge, but we’re tackling it head-on.
To address this, we removed the tops of the batteries and cleaned out most of the corrosion. We’re now running baking soda through the chamber to neutralize any remaining acid. Thankfully, we haven’t found any holes yet, but we’ll continue to inspect and ensure it’s safe before reinstalling closed-cell batteries. This experience has taught us the importance of regular maintenance and checks, especially when it comes to safety on the water.
Stay tuned for more updates on our homesteading journey, and feel free to share your own experiences and tips in the comments. Until next time, happy homesteading!
Hey everyone, Ryan here from Backroads Homesteading, and I’m thrilled to share our latest adventure in upgrading our homestead’s infrastructure. Today, I’m diving into how we’ve tackled the daunting task of fencing – a critical project for any homesteader, gardener, rancher, or farmer out there.
Our journey began with the realization that we needed a more efficient, less taxing way to install fences around our property. Like many of you, we started with a manual post pounder, which, while effective, isn’t exactly a friend to your hands or your time. In our search for a better solution, we stumbled upon a game-changing tool that I had to share with you all: the Buckte T Post Driver and Puller.
This innovative system from Bucket Driver, based out of Oklahoma, caught our eye primarily because it didn’t have much in the way of reviews, and we were curious to see if it lived up to its promises. The setup is brilliantly simple yet effective. It attaches to the bucket of a tractor – and with a few adjustments to ensure the base is flat, you’re ready to go. This device not only drives posts into the ground with the tractor’s bucket but also allows for the posts to be pulled out, thanks to a clever mechanism that grips the T-posts securely.
We had some initial concerns about whether our tractor was up to the task, but the Bucket Driver system is designed to work with a wide range of machinery. A minimum of 20-25 horsepower is recommended, which means most tractors, skid steers, and even front-end loaders can handle this system with ease. And if you’re worried about compatibility, Bucket Driver has thought of that too – offering different brackets to accommodate various bucket thicknesses.
One of the most appreciated features of this system is its ability to adjust to the angle of the bucket, ensuring the post remains straight during the driving process. Additionally, the post puller feature is a game-changer for us. It’s an affordable, efficient way to remove old posts or adjust your fencing layout without additional equipment.
During our test run, we found the installation process to be straightforward. The included washers help level the bottom of the device on the bucket, but we found we didn’t need them. The device attaches securely to the tractor’s bucket, and its swivel feature is a real work-saver, accommodating posts facing any direction.
The true test came when we started driving posts into the ground. The recent rain had softened the soil, making our job a bit easier, but the Bucket Driver system proved its worth by significantly reducing the time and effort required to install each post. We spaced our posts about 20 feet apart, mindful of avoiding underground utilities (always call 811 before you dig!).
Another aspect we loved was the ability to repurpose old, slightly bent fence posts. This not only saved us money but also aligned with our commitment to sustainability. The Bucket Driver system allowed us to drive these recycled posts into the ground with ease, breathing new life into materials that would otherwise go to waste.
For those interested, we’ve included affiliate links. These links support our homestead at no extra cost to you. We bought this product at retail price, just like anyone else, and I must say, the investment was worth every penny. Not only does purchasing directly from the manufacturer save money, but you’re also getting a high-quality, American-made product with excellent customer support.
In conclusion, the Bucket Driver and Puller system has been a revelation for us here at Backroads Homesteading. It’s made our fencing project much more manageable, saving us time, labor, and resources. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to install or upgrade their fencing. It’s a stellar example of American ingenuity and manufacturing at its best.
Thanks for joining me in this post. If you found this information helpful, please like, share, and subscribe for more tips and tricks from our homestead to yours. Until next time, this is Ryan, signing off.
Protecting The Homestead
How to protect the homestead.
It’s another beautiful day, and as the sun rises, our thoughts are firmly on the future of our homestead. Our mission is clear: safeguard our fields, our animals, and our dreams. These lands are more than just dirt and grass; they’re the foundation of our livelihood and the promise of a sustainable future.
Protecting our homestead is an undertaking that demands our full attention and dedication. Our commitment to growing food, raising livestock, nurturing bees, worms, and enriching the soil forms the backbone of our daily lives. Yet, without proper protection, all our efforts could be in vain. The presence of predators and the constant challenge of keeping them at bay necessitate a robust defense strategy. It’s a reality that has led us to invest significantly in fencing, a decision not made lightly given its implications in terms of time and financial resources.
Our approach to safeguarding the homestead is multifaceted. We’re experimenting with a variety of tools and technologies, including a solar fence energizer and various types of electric fence setups. Our goal is to find the most effective solutions to protect both our livestock and our gardens. This includes the strategic placement of electric wires and the innovative use of physical barriers to deter deer, known for their tricky depth perception. By staggering fence lines, we aim to create a deterrent that keeps our strong local deer population at bay.
The challenges we face are not small. From managing a herd of 10 to 20 deer to clearing brush and barb wire, every task is a step towards a more secure and productive homestead. Our plans are ambitious, ranging from repurposing land for sheep pastures to relocating chicken coops closer to the farmstead, all in the pursuit of a well-protected agricultural area.
With the arrival of spring signaled by the geese heading north, we’re reminded of the cycles of nature and the importance of preparation. Clearing trees, dealing with underbrush, and setting up electric and barbed fences are all part of our daily rhythm. The introduction of technology, like the battery-operated chainsaw, has made these tasks more manageable, allowing us to efficiently maintain our land.
Beyond the physical work, there’s a significant emphasis on community and relationships. Whether it’s negotiating with neighbors for land use or envisioning agritourism opportunities, we understand that successful homesteading is as much about people as it is about the land. We’re looking forward to hosting interns, engaging with local students, and opening our doors to those curious about the homesteading lifestyle.
Our journey is a testament to the learning process, a constant balance of ambition and practicality. While we may dream big, we’re always ready to adapt, learning from each challenge and opportunity. Whether this homestead remains our forever home or a stepping stone to larger ventures, our commitment to sustainable living, community building, and environmental stewardship remains unwavering.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Your support, whether through watching our videos, sharing our story, or subscribing to our channel, means the world to us. Together, we’re not just protecting a piece of land; we’re nurturing a way of life that respects the earth and fosters a sense of community.
Burning A Fence Line
We tackled phase two of our project: creating a burn line along our fence line. With the help of the Burnomatic – the ultimate torch, we initiated this process about a week ago. We strategically burned a path down the fence line, trimmed the grass short on both sides, and then, as luck would have it, the heavens opened up, drenching the area thoroughly.
The aftermath of the rain was perfect; the grass along our freshly burned line wilted away, leaving a clear path. We then ignited a controlled grass line fire, allowing it to slowly follow the pre-burned path. This method proved to be fuel-efficient, allowing the fire to consume the dead grass at a measured pace.
However, this isn’t a task for the faint-hearted or inexperienced. Controlled burns require a deep understanding of the environment and conditions. For starters, the grass needs to be short, the wind minimal and predictable, and the ground saturated from recent rains. The importance of monitoring the burn cannot be overstated – this is not a set-and-forget situation.
I strongly advise against attempting this without proper experience or guidance. In fact, partnering with knowledgeable folks or involving your local fire department is a wise move. Controlled burns, when done correctly, offer a swift means to clear fence lines but demand respect for the forces at play.
Our goal was to prepare the ground for our upcoming project – installing a seven-strand electrical fence. The burn line ensures that the base of the fence is as close to the ground as possible, ideally within a six-inch margin, to prevent any undergrowth from contacting the fence.
To sum up, burning a fence line is a practical, efficient method to clear vegetation, but it’s essential to approach this method with caution, knowledge, and respect for the potential risks involved. Work safe, and happy homesteading!
Welcome back, fellow homesteaders and friends of the Backroads!
Ryan here again, and I’m thrilled to bring you the latest updates from our beloved homestead. Just this morning, I wrapped up an oil change on our trusty car, and it got me thinking about all the progress we’ve made and the exciting plans we have in store. So, I figured it’s the perfect time for a hearty update!
2024 Thoughts And Ideas
A Glimpse into Our World
Our homestead has been a hive of activity lately. We’ve reclaimed our tractor, been busy laying water lines, and let me tell you, we’ve got a lineup of videos that we can’t wait to share with you! Our schedule is getting packed, with live streams aimed for every Friday or Saturday and fresh videos every Tuesday and Thursday. We’re all about hands-on work here, and whether it’s changing oil or exploring alternative energy sources like waste oil heaters, we’re diving deep into the world of sustainable living.
A Direct Line to Our Community
We’re beyond excited to announce that our website is now live, complete with an active email list! This platform is our way of connecting directly with you, our community. Given the nature of our content, not everything is YouTube-friendly, so we’ve taken to platforms like Rumble X and our very own newsletter to ensure you don’t miss a beat. For those who choose to support our channel, we’re rolling out membership perks – from exclusive content and stickers to a heartfelt thank you letter.
Homesteading, Community, and Beyond
Our vision extends far beyond just maintaining a homestead. We’re talking about a vibrant, thriving community. We’ve got plans for primitive camping sites for those adventurous spirits and a dive into agritourism. But it’s not just about us. We’re laying down water lines, setting up fences, and planting a variety of berries and fruit trees – it’s about creating a space where self-sufficiency meets community spirit.
We’re active across social media, and we cherish the direct, uncensored line of communication that our email list and potential print newsletters offer. These platforms are our way of ensuring that our journey, our learnings, and our community’s stories are shared far and wide.
The Journey Ahead
As we gear up for the future, we’re reminded daily that homesteading is not just about the land; it’s about the people, the community, and the shared journey towards a more sustainable, fulfilling way of life. Our mission is to support local agriculture, promote self-sufficiency, and foster a space where life is lived in harmony with nature.
We’re here to share, to grow, and to support each other every step of the way. Whether it’s through our videos, our membership program, or our social media channels, we’re building more than just a homestead – we’re nurturing a community.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Your support fuels our passion and drives us to keep moving forward, one backroad at a time.
Keep homesteading, stay connected, and remember – Affiliate Links support our channel at no cost to you.
Every journey begins with a first step, or sometimes, it doesn’t begin at all. Many of us observe others embarking on new endeavors, often giving the illusion that we are following a similar path. However, the necessity of cultivating your own food cannot be overstated.
In these times, as we face difficulties unparalleled since the era of our great grandparents, the importance of self-sustainability becomes increasingly clear. The world, including the USA, is experiencing a level of instability and turmoil unprecedented in history, with negative forces seemingly gaining ground rapidly.
Instead of fixating on factors beyond your control, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, seek guidance and strength through prayer, and strategize for your family’s survival in these uncertain times. At The Backroads Homestead, we are committed to sowing the seeds of liberty and inspiring others to do the same. Our community not only encourages each other in these endeavors but also rewards such efforts.
Approach this as an enjoyable challenge. Avoid getting bogged down by overthinking or succumbing to despair. Recognize the grim state of the world, but choose to plan for survival rather than sinking with the metaphorical ship. Many people are overwhelmed by the fear and negativity broadcasted in the media, leading to a sense of helplessness. However, it’s crucial to move past these feelings and take action. Surround yourself with positive, action-oriented individuals, and distance yourself from naysayers.
Make it a game. Ya, I mean, keep it fun. Don’t suffer from analysis paralysis or woe be me stuff. That’ll end with your doom. Know enough to make the conscious decision to say “ok, the world is kinda sucking right now, need to plan on how to not go down with this ship”. I see so many people take the negative, fear-mongering garbage on our screens and just throw a pity party… or even a puddles pity party (below, ya, that’s a thing). Sure, everyone hurts sometimes, but then get over it! DO SOMETHING. Wipe away those tears, get with people who do the things, and get rid of the negative people who tell you you can’t. Jess, Link and I care about you, and want you to live and even thrive when the next crash goes hard-core.
Take us, as an example. Back in 2014ish, neither my wife or I had any clue how to garden, but we had a child now and parental instincts started kicking in about the world around us not heading in a good direction for our child. While we can’t control what God does, what wars happen, or how the earth goes round, we CAN start to take some effort in making things, and learning how to do things, and getting ready to deal with people who didn’t see the writing on the wall.
Let me put this a different way, to be more Frank. As society erodes, those of us who are doing the things, will gravitate towards others who are doing the things. Many will begin to see those who are not doing the things as a threat to those doing the things. Don’t be a threat, do the things. Matter to the people who will help protect you, your family, and your property. And it doesn’t take much! Those who do the things are always looking for those taking the effort to do the things, even if they fail, they are really trying, the folks doing the things may step in and help where needed.
People think you need a big farm setup and lots of land and big bucks to launch food production. Nope, grab some soil, seeds, and time to care for them, and you too, can be part of this new culture of independence resurgence. Here’s a video of how we took the simple, small backyard of our last property and turned it into a little Garden of Eden. We started with one thing, then we did another. And before you knew it… the entire back yard was producing produce, even the old hot tub! Myself, Jess, and Link are dedicated to your well-being and aim to see you not just survive but thrive in the face of future adversities. Our own journey began around 2014, with no prior knowledge of gardening, driven by parental instincts to provide a better world for our child. While we can’t control divine will, global conflicts, or the natural order, we can certainly strive to be proactive in learning and preparing for challenges.
In closing, I’d like to really put the emphasis on putting your thoughts into action. Join us and share your results with us! We all need to encourage one another and make things happen.
