Our homestead project.

We're thrilled to embark on this journey and share our experiences in building a homestead in the beautiful state of Wyoming! This blog will chronicle our efforts as we strive towards a more self-sufficient and connected-to-the-land lifestyle.

Challenges and Anticipated Learnings

We acknowledge the inherent challenges of homesteading, including:

• Harsh weather conditions: Wyoming's winters can be brutal and we are at 8000 feet elevation, so we'll discuss our preparations for dealing with the elements.

• Isolation and lack of amenities: Living remotely might require adjustments and resourcefulness.

• The continuous learning curve: We'll share our learnings from mistakes, successes, and valuable resources like workshops, extension services.

The time line:

In the fall of 2016, we purchased our 5.5 acre Wyoming homestead. The following summer, we embarked on a six-week project of digging post holes and erecting a barbed wire fence to secure the property from free-ranging cows.

2017: Our well drilling was a success, reaching a depth of 165 feet. Water testing revealed exceptional quality: moderate mineral content, pH balance, and zero harmful biological contaminants – a rarity in Wyoming where iron and other minerals often present challenges for well water. The well also boasts a consistent flow of 5 to 10 gallons per minute.

2022: I took on the project of digging a snow water catchment pond and installing a waterline from the well to the house site. Learning how to use an excavator was a great experience (thanks You Tubers).

2023:  This year marked significant progress on our future. Tonya and I finalized the building plans and ordered our 40'x70' metal building with a 26'x 26' garage. We will be building a 40'x 24' living area inside. I tackled the foundation, digging the trench and meticulously compacting the soil to ensure a solid base.

Maximizing the available time on the property, I tackled another project: planning and adding soil to our initial market garden bed area. Tonya, ever resourceful and amazing, took charge of hand spreading 4 inches of gravel into the foundation using a total of 199 tons. WOW!  Shortly after, with the incredible help of family - Don, Lynn, and Steve, we successfully installed the plumbing and hydronic heating system piping. The next day the foundation was poured!

2024: Braving the elements and snow, our building crew successfully installed the metal building walls, windows, and doors despite the challenging winter conditions. Sadly, the project then sat unfinished; the builders did not come back to finish the project, so it was left as in the video below.

Aug 12,2024 We finally found a new builder who will finish the remains of the building hopefully this month.

September 1, 2024  The shell of the building is done! Now we need to finish the 24x40 living Area inside. Finally it is all up to Tonya and I to finish the build other than the closed cell insulation to be sprayed inside the whole of the building.