Aisling Meadow Homestead Goals Articulation & Homestead Site Backyard Homesteading Erin Forbes December 31 st , 2016
Aisling MeadowHomestead
Goals Articulation & Homestead SiteBackyard Homesteading
Erin ForbesDecember 31st, 2016
Brainstorming Process◦ Identified the desired elements of my
backyard homestead including livestock, garden, composting, water sources, storage, & power
◦Categorized various ideas and goals with use of index cards
◦Formed a larger and more concrete homestead goal/plan
Goals Articulation StatementMy family is constantly striving to create a self-sustainable and resilient homestead. We utilize permaculture principles and organic methods. Our farm not only provides for the needs of our family, but it is also a community resource for agricultural education and farm fresh food. We recognize the value in this endeavor and refuse to allocate these responsibilities to a nameless industry.
Homestead Site◦ Aisling Meadows Homestead is located on
a fifteen acre farm in Hudson Valley, NY◦ The homestead site that I will be using is
comprised of five acres.
Features:◦Well-drained soil◦ Large horse pasture with run-in shed◦ Four honeybee hives◦ Access to small amount of forest with
maple trees◦ Chickens & other livestock◦ Fenced vegetable and berry garden
Challenges vs. Opportunities, as viewed through the lens of self reliance, while considering the integral role of our homestead in a resilient local economy.
Site Feature Challenges OpportunitiesNatural Water Supply for livestock and garden
No pond or rain barrels Possible low land where we can create a pond. Establish rainwater catchment system
Livestock & Honey Bees Free-range chickens are subject to predators. Honey processing shed needed
Fresh honey and eggs supply for family and farmers market.Natural compost for garden
Storage & Infrastructure No barn to store farming implements, hay, or feed
Large shed currently houses livestock feed
Garden Water access and limited growth season due to lack of greenhouse
Small fenced garden provides vegetables and berries for family and farmers market
Electricity Limited power access on certain parts of the farm
Opportunity for of solar power as homestead has minimal shade
Homestead Site Photos