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