For thousands of years, farmers around the world have saved, stored, and replanted their own seeds. This simple practice has ensured food security, biodiversity, and resilience to changing climates. But today, that tradition is under legal attack. Large agribusiness corporations have spent decades lobbying for strict seed laws, turning seeds into intellectual property and limiting …
When I first set out to turn my one-acre farm into a livestock powerhouse, I had big dreams and even bigger expectations. I envisioned an operation that could produce meat, eggs, milk, and honey, all within a small, efficient space. I read the books, watched the videos, and planned everything down to the square foot. …
Building a cabin is a dream for many – a peaceful retreat nestled in nature, a place to escape the chaos of daily life. But before you dive into construction, there are several important factors you need to consider. While the idea of a cozy log cabin may seem simple, the reality involves careful planning, …
Raising backyard chickens isn’t just about the joy of collecting fresh eggs every morning—it’s about finding the best breed to keep those eggs coming. Some chickens lay a few eggs a week, while others are egg-laying machines, pumping out hundreds of eggs per year with impressive consistency. If you’re looking to maximize your egg production, …
Living off-grid is a dream for many who seek independence, sustainability, and freedom from the constraints of modern urban life. But not all locations are created equal. Factors like climate, zoning laws, land prices, access to water, and even political attitudes toward self-sufficient living can make or break an off-grid experience. Acorn Land Labs examined …
Raising cattle on grass alone can be a challenge, especially when it comes to growth rates and profitability. Some breeds take years to mature, requiring extensive feed and care before they’re ready for slaughter. For small-scale farmers or homesteaders, waiting three years for a return on investment isn’t always an option. That’s why selecting the …
When I first decided to raise Angora goats, my main goal was simple: produce high-quality mohair. I had read about how luxurious and valuable their fleece was, and I figured it would be a rewarding, albeit challenging, endeavor. What I didn’t expect was just how much these goats would teach me – not just about …
Homesteading has a romanticized image – wide-open spaces, fresh eggs every morning, and a lush garden overflowing with vegetables. That’s what I had in mind when I packed up my life and moved to the countryside, ready to embrace self-sufficiency. A year later, I came close to throwing in the towel. The reality was harder, …
Across the United States, the term “public good” has become a catch-all justification for the government to seize private land, often benefiting corporations more than communities. Farmers, ranchers, and rural landowners are fighting back against eminent domain abuse, arguing that many of these land seizures serve private profit under the guise of public necessity. Charlie …
At one point, vertical farming was hailed as the future of food production. Entrepreneurs like Hiroki Koga, founder of the vertical farming company Oishii, painted a utopian vision of fresh, locally grown produce flourishing in high-tech indoor environments. In his TED talk, Koga described how his team had developed a system to grow strawberries that …
Choosing the right chainsaw bar size is more than just a matter of preference—it directly impacts cutting speed, power efficiency, and ease of use. If you’re buying a new chainsaw or thinking about swapping out your bar, understanding how bar length affects performance is crucial. Whether you’re felling trees, bucking logs, or cutting firewood, the …
Buying rural land is a dream for many, whether it’s to start a homestead, grow food, or simply escape city life. But if you go into it blindly, you could end up with major regrets. The good news? There’s a clear process that can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your land purchase is …
The pickup truck has long been an American icon – rugged, practical, and built to work. For decades, trucks were designed with a clear purpose: they were tools for farmers, tradesmen, and anyone who needed to haul heavy loads or navigate rough terrain. They were simple, durable, and affordable. But over time, something changed. The …
There’s something about old hand tools that modern versions just don’t have. Maybe it’s the craftsmanship, the weight of solid steel, or the way they were built to last through generations of hard work. Whether you’re a collector or a hands-on user, vintage tools can still outperform many of their modern counterparts. The best part? …
Homesteading can be tough work, but the right tools can save you time, energy, and frustration. Too many beginners fall into the trap of buying expensive, gimmicky gadgets that promise to make life easier but end up collecting dust. Instead, focus on tools that are tried, tested, and essential for maintaining your property. Whether you’re …