ESSENTIAL READING
A Better Rainwater-Harvesting System
Think beyond the rain barrel: This simpler, cheaper approach to rainwater harvesting will help you harvest much more water for your garden!
A Plan for Food Self-Sufficiency
Planning a garden in advance can help you enjoy local, homegrown food year-round! Estimate how much to grow or buy and learn how to achieve food security with these guidelines.
Backyard Chicken Facts - 5 Things No One Told Us
A few facts that might help you decide whether or not to get chickens for your backyard.
Best Guard Dog for Your Homestead
Read guard dog training tips and advice on guard dog breeds best suited for your needs.
Build This Predator-Proof, Portable Chicken Coop
Our newest low-cost portable chicken coop plan makes raising backyard chickens easier for just about anyone.
Deep Litter Chicken Manure Management
Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of the deep litter system and how you can manage a small flock’s manure easily and efficiently.
Home Cheesemaking: From Hobby to Business
Artisan cheesemakers who aspire to make their passion a profession will face many challenges on the way to establishing a successful business. Find out what to consider before taking the leap.
How to Buy Farmland, Even If You Think You Can't
Dream of starting a farm? Here’s a guide to what questions to ask and where to find reliable answers, plus resources to help you obtain a farm loan.
Live on Less!
Try these 75 inspiring ideas and enjoy life more while spending and consuming less.
Living Well Without a Job and With (Almost) No Money
Get the good things in life without having to go to a boring, meaningless, frustrating job to get the money to buy them.
Making the Most of a Small Home
How one couple made their petite country cabin a cozy, beautiful and energy-efficient home.
Simple Living: How to Save Money and Smile More
Are you drawn to the idea of simple living, but not sure where to start? Three families share the changes they’ve made that have allowed them to live with less cash income but greater security and life satisfaction.
Start a 1-Acre, Self-Sufficient Homestead
Expert advice on how to establish self-sufficient food production, including guidance on crop rotations, raising livestock and grazing management.
The Science of Stacking Firewood
From Shaker rounds to ricks, here's a primer on methods of stacking firewood for maximum seasoning.