Off Grid Survival Projects Book: No Grid Survival Handbook, Living Essentials, Must Haves, Shelter, Food, Off-the-Grid Power, Canning and Other Life-Saving Strategies for Self-reliant Living

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Off Grid Survival Projects Book

No Grid Survival Handbook, Living Essentials, Must Haves, Shelter, Food, Off-the-Grid Power, Canning and Other Life-Saving Strategies for Self-reliant Living

Raphael Poke

Copyright © 2022 Raphael Poke All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. Printed in the United States of America

Contents Introduction ....................................................................................... 1 Project 1: How to Install a Solar Energy System .................................. 1 Project 2: How to Harvest Rainwater .................................................. 7 Project 3: How to Drill Your Own Water Well ................................... 12 Project 4: How to Build a Non-Compressor Air Conditioner .............. 17 Project 5: The Process of Constructing a Root Cellar ........................ 20 Project 6: Instructions For Building A DIY Rocket Stove Oven .... 24 Project 7: Instructions for constructing a solar oven........................27 Project 8: How to Make Homemade Liquid Dish Soap ....................... 31 Biological filtering ........................................................................ 38 Stovetop Distillery ........................................................................ 39 Created Coal Filtration .................................................................. 40 Boiling of Water ........................................................................... 43 Water Decontamination by Sunlight .............................................. 44 Project

9:

HOW

TO

MAKE

SOLAR

WAYER

PURIFIER/DISTILLATION SYSTEM WITH PLASTIC BOTTLES 49 Project 10: What to Do to Get Started with the Free Heater ................ 53 Project 11: How to Dehydrate Foods ................................................. 60 Project 12: DIY Vinegar Pickling ...................................................... 65

3. Making pickles ..........................................................................68 Spicy Pickles ................................................................................. 70 Project 13: How to Get Wood and Let It Dry ................................. 78 Project 14: Trapping for Game...........................................................86 Project 15: How to Raise Cattle ......................................................... 97 Project 16: How to Cultivate Your Own Food Garden ....................... 111 Project 17: How to Fish for Pros .......................................................120 Project 18: How to Plant a Garden: A Comprehensive Guide ............ 138 Project 19: Compost Pile Construction Instructions ..........................145 Conclusion .......................................................................................156

Project 1: How to Install a Solar Energy System

Introduction Whether you're constructing a cottage in the woods that's separated from power and water

Solar energy is more expensive

supplies or you just want to cut

than conventional electricity,

your

but it never runs out of fuel

energy

bills,

moving

partially or completely off the

(except on a cloudy day). A gas

grid may be accomplished on a

or propane generator will often

budget with a little ingenuity.

provide more energy for less

There

money. Even if solar panels are

are

numerous

minor

ways to minimize your energy

installed, a generator will be

and water consumption, as well

required for use at night and on

as eliminate the need for a

overcast days.

sewage or septic system. Solar

If you currently have solar

cookers, Mini

panels,

turbines, water tech

wind filtration, low-

refrigeration,

consider

a

grid -

independent inverter, a battery

and

backup, and/or a generator. The

greywater systems are included

solar

in these DIY off-grid home

which is then sent to the solar

projects.

charged

panels

charges

Make this unique way of life more entertaining and productive. These off -grid hack projects, lifestyle ideas, and homesteading advice will be of assistance!

collect

controller, the

battery

energy, -

which before

sending power bac k to the controller. Then, energy is sent to the solar inverter, which

1

powers your electronics and

Procedures:

home appliances.



Connect

the

solar

panel's

negative

and

positive wires to the charge

controller's

positive and negative solar panel terminals. 4 basic components: 1.

Solar charge controller

2. A 12V20ah sealed lead acid battery with a maximum charging current of 6 amps. Note that you ca n improve the life of your battery by adding distilled

water

to

its

connections. 500 watts 12 volt to 220 volt solar

power

inverter

that

converts solar panel and battery power o The solar panel consumes 0.50 watts.

2

Note: Be sure to secure one of the solar panel's terminals with electrical tape to prevent short circuiting. As soon as light strikes the solar panel, both wires immediately become live. Tip: To avoid confusion, I always connect the positive terminal to the wire that has a label on it.



Connect and

the

positive

negative

battery

terminals of the charged controller to the positive and negative terminals of

the

battery,

respectively. Note: When the solar battery and solar panel are connected to 3

the charged controller, some of the LED lights will turn on.



Connect

the

charged

controller's negative and positive terminals to the positive and negati ve terminals of the power inverter. Tip: The wire with the printed label will be connected to the positive terminal.

Tip: To turn on the inverter, press the orange power button on the solar-powered inverter. This will turn on the inverter's fan and make the load LED light

on

the

solar

controller light up. 4

charger

To activate the AC output and USB port, push the on button on the inverter.



Try

charging

your

electronics. That is all. 5

# 1 – First, fill the water containers. Considering I live on a hill and

a few days while I devise a

water does not flow uphill,

The 500 gallons of water i n my

water is my next problem. If

hot tub is disinfected with

there is still water pressure, I

bromine instead of chlorine,

would fill all empty containers,

and

such as sinks, tubs (using a

consumed, it can be used for

water

personal hygiene and watering

bob),

pitchers,

more permanent solution.

and

washbasins, as well as my hot

while

it

cannot

be

my garden.

tub. I have 500 gallons of water Before filling the sinks, as I am

stored in bottles and barrels in

aware that the drains all leak, I

addition to the hot tub. Again,

would cover the drain with duct

this is not a permanent solution,

tape. Without Water Bob, I

but it buys me more time to

would do the same thing to my

find one. More information will

bathtub.

be forthcoming.

#2 – Turn Water Off at the Meter When the lines are completely drained, I would turn off the water at the meter to prevent any upstream problems from contaminating the remaining water. Yes, I am aware that all of this is transitory and won't last, but it will tide me over for 6

1. Place a 55-gallon barrel in

Project 2: How to Harvest Rainwater

position. You may need to surround it with stone or

Collecting rainwater: is one of

place it on cinder blocks for

the simplest ways to obtain water,

provided

the

stability.

local

climate is sufficiently hu mid. Just collect the rainwater in water barrels or a cistern, but keep in mind that it will still need to be filtered and purified. Tool:

Ensure that your barrel is clean.

✔ A 55 gallon barrel with a removable top ✔ A screen ✔ A faucet system with an adapter ✔ A tape

2. Measure the downspout on

✔ A cordless drill

the 55-gallon barrel's lid

✔ A hole saw

and

cut

it

to

✔ Measuring tape

allowing

a

small

gap

✔ Ten snips

between

the

barrel

and

✔ Razor

downspout

✔ A big saw or a jig saw ✔ A sharpie for marking 7

length.

straight,

as

it

may

be

deformed during the cutting process.

Cut an angle using your ten snips.

You can use some small set screws to secure it. 4. Test the barrel to see if it provides additional space.

3. Adjust

the

barrel

to

accommodate the shortened downspout. Ensure that it is 8

5. Put a screen right under the downspout

to

stop

mosquitoes and other bugs from

getting

into

your It is possible to start a saw by

water.

drilling a few holes.

6. Draw a line around the screen's

perimeter.

Take

care not to move it.

Utilize a saw to cut -open your hole.

7. Remove

the

lid

before

cutting.

9

8. Make your Screen fit

10. Install your faucet. You will need to stoop very low.

The component with the ring goes inside, and we'll attach the other component from the back to the exterior. 9. Drill a hole for the faucet.

10

Insert silicone tape to prevent a leak. Allow the metal to enter the thread and continue to turn until it fits.

Turn it clockwise against the

11. Adjust the lid so that it is

threads to tighten it.

compatible

with

downspout.

Apply some Teflon tape to your faucet. And secure lock your barrel. 11

the

Project 3: How to Drill Your Own Water Well The following is a list of the steps that you are required to take:

And that concludes it!

Step 1: The first thing you need to do is buy a huge bore water well kit •

You are going to need a large-bore water well kit, which consists of a hand pump that is 25 feet long, a

Note: You can connect a pipe to

water well auger, a decent

your faucet in order to access

screen

the water, or you can place cinder blocks beneath

assembly,

and

a

good cap assembly.

your

•

barrel in order to use a bucket.

You will also need pliers, a hacksaw,

pipe

wrenches,

PVC primer with cement, 12

parachute cord, well casing, bags

of

the

required

length of PVC pipe has

addition to cement, and drill

been joined to it wi th PVC

pipes.

collars, PVC primer, and 2:

gravel

that

in

Step

pea

1. Now

Locate

cement, the well screen

an

assembly

Appropriate Digging Site

2. The side of the pipe that

site. After that, you are need

to

contains the well screen

start

assembly

digging with the auger for the

water

well.

It

put

the pipe is above ground.

to find a suita ble digging

to

be

together so that one foot of

1. It is now your responsibility

going

can

needs

to

be

installed first.

is

The fourth step is to use caulk

recommended to drill a hole

to fill in any gaps that are

that is 7 inches in diameter.

around the PVC pipe

2. As the hole gets deeper, you will need to attach drill

The following step is to seal the

pipes to the auger. It is

gaps that are around the PVC

necessary to penetrate the

pipe by filling them with pea

top soil layer, the clay layer,

gravel, clay that has been dug

and the water -bearing sand

out, and cement that has been

layer, and continue until

mixed with water.

you reach the second clay

Connect the pump to the fifth

layer.

step

Step 3: Assemble the screen

1. At long last, you can begin

using the provided parts

installing the pump itself. 13

Before the water pump can

4. Use a connector to make the

be installed in the PVC

connection

pipe, it first needs to be

handle and the pipe.

constructed by connecting

the

5. Your water pump will be

the riser pipes.

operational whenever you

2. You are required to remove all

between

traces

of

need it! Try out this method

the

to construct your very own

contaminated water from

do-it-yourself water well by

the system. Af ter that, you

using the huge bore water

should secure the parachute

well kit.

cord to the well cap by tying it to the bottom of the

The Undeniable Benefits That

pump

Come

where

it

was

originally attached.

this,

These are some strong reasons

the

why you should buy or find

additional layer of PVC

another way to get a do-it-

pipe that is wrapped arou nd

yourself water well drilling kit.

the pump pipe needs to be removed

in

a

Do-It-

Kits

to be put back on. In to

With

Yourself Water Well Drilling

3. The cover of the well needs

addition

Along

1.

precise

Self-help

Drilling

your

manner. This inner pipe

own water well gives you

needs to be cut to the length

independence.

that will put the pump

One of the most significant

handle

benefits of drilling a water well

in

the

desired

is the opportunity to achieve

position. 14

complete

self -sufficiency

in

home. This gives you complete

water supply. If you have your

control over the water supply

own water supply on -site, you

you use.

are not dependent on the local

2.

municipal water authority for

groundwater has health and

water. This indicates that the

safety benefits that may not be

government will not place any

found in public water sources.

constraints on the amount of

By drilling water wells, you r

water that you have access to.

water can take advantage of the

In addition, drilling your own

Earth's natural filtration system.

water well at home eliminates

This means that your water is of

the need for a private water regulate

Water

There is no doubt that natural

are in control of your own

to

the

Quality

your water needs. Instead, you

corporation

Improve

a higher quality and still has all

the

the minerals it needs.

conditions under which you are permitted to access water. You

Also, the chemical treatment of

will no longer have to worry

municipal water has a much

about arbitrary price increases

bigger

or fees eating into your bottom

environment than the use of do-

line or your available funds. In

it-yourself water well drilling

the long run, you will be able to

equipment, so this type of water

save

supply is usually the best for

time,

money,

and

effect

the environment.

resources if you have your very own water well located on the premises of your b usiness or 15

on

the

to

pursuing solar energy. I possess

Convenience in Terms of

a modest 12-volt cooler that can

Maintenance

store my 1.5-year supply of

3. Give

Priority

In conclusion, it is important to

insulin. To keep my insulin

point out the ease of use and the

cool, I would fill the cooler and

amount of time that can be

connect it to a power source.

saved by having your own

Because

water well. If you are connected

extension cables, I can place

to the public water supply and

my cooler in a more shady area.

you have a broken pipe or a supply problem, you must wait for the municipal authorities to come out and fix it, which can take a long time. If you are not connected to the public water supply, you are not required to

\

wait. You won't have to deal with the issues that are typical of public water systems if you dig your own water well and provide your own supply of water. #3 – Build up Temporary Power As a diabetic, insulin is my next priority and the sole reason I'm 16

I

have

12-volt

Project 4: How to Build a NonCompressor Air Conditioner How to Keep Your Cool in Extreme Heat

A bucket, styrofoam liner, pvc

When it's terribly hot outside,

tubing, a tiny fan, and ice are

make sure to drink plenty of

required supplies (a small solar

water. If feasible, strenuous

panel is optional).

labor should be avoided during the hottest parts of the day. Stay on the first floor of your home. Cover all daytime windows that receive direct sunlight. Create paper fans for air movement. If you can afford it, purchase battery-powered fans. Consequently, you can create a non-compressor air conditioner at home using our DIY guide.

17

It is quite simple to construct and provides an abundance of cool air.

Step 3: Insert the 1 1/2 -inch

Step 1: Drill three 21/4 -inch

PVC pipes into the three holes.

holes in the bucket.

Step 4: Cut a hole in the bucket's lid and the Styrofoam.

Step 2: Insert the liner and drill

Take care to compare it to your

2 1/8 inch holes. Make sure

fan.

your fingers are not near the hole you're drilling.

18

Step 5: Put a frozen gallon in the bucket

Step 7: Connect the fan to the power source. Here, a solar panel was employed to power the fan. Step 6: Place the bucket's cover on top and insert the fan at the top. You may also lay the fan without the bucket cover on the styrofoam. In either case, it is effective. Based on past experience, we can get at least five hours from this. You can position the bucket on a stool or anywhere else you think is appropriate, most likely near the bed or a chair, or anywhere you want it 19

to go, in order to obtain fresh,

Project 5: The Process of Constructing a Root Cellar

chilly air.

Food is next, specifically the fast-warming

food

in

the

refrigerator and freezer. As long as the freezer's door is not opened, a few days can pass before

the

food

must

be

removed. With the refrigerator, I would empty everything into three coolers with food for the first, second, and third days. I do not anticipate it lasting longer. Thus, I do not need to access the contents of coolers #2 and #3, and they can remain chilled for longer. I would pack the food cooler with as much ice and frozen blue ice packs as possible. Milk and other dairy items should likely not be stored in cooler number three. Eggs, 20

ketchup, mustard, and many

constant temperature over

other items that we wish to

time).

keep cool can sit for a very long time on a counter. Determine discarded

what to

can

avoid

be

wasting

valuable cooler space. Each cooler should be labeled with its contents and the items that must be consumed first. We •

will discuss the freezer later.

bottom to allow some of the

Depending on your needs and

moisture

preferences, a root cellar can be

escape.

in this case, we're going to with

a

that

has

been

building up inside it to

quite large or quite small. But

experiment

Drill some holes in the can's

This

will

help

prevent mold from growing

solution

inside the can.

that's just the right size for us right now and doesn't cost very much money: we're going to use a garbage can and some straw or sawdust. •

•

Dig a hole that is roughly

Position the trash can so that it is inside the hole.

the same size as your trash can (this helps to retain a 21

•

Bury garbage

the can

brand -new made

of

galvanized steel along with the cover. The majority of root •

crops,

including

Arrange some hay in a layer

carrots, potatoes, Chinese

all the way around the trash

cabbage, and a great many

can.

more, can be stored in this..

•

Build several layers in your root cellar. Put in the cellar some straw or sawdust to a depth of approximately 5

•

inches.

Cut a hole in the cover of the garbage can and place it at an angle so that warm air can escape.

• 22

Place some potatoes.

•

Surround your root cellar with a sufficient amount of straw, and that's it!

•

Place the subsequent layer of straws or sawdust, then the

subsequent

layer

of

heavy fruit. •

Maintain

a

regular

inspection schedule for your root cellar,

and fit any

openings to the cellar with some kind of screen to prevent •

Put a lid on your root cellar.

rodents

from

entering. (Ensure that your vent at the very top of the can

is

protected

by

a

screen.) #6 - Plan for an Early Power •

Outage in the Kitchen

To ensure that the surface is adequately insulated, cover

As important as it is to be able

it with a layer of rigid

to cook my food, I will install

styrofoam insulation.

camp stoves on my back patio that

will

function

propane runs out.

23

till

the

Project 6: Instructions For Building A DIY Rocket Stove Oven Here is another inexpensive method of cooking without using gas; it is an outdoor stove that is simple to run and maintain. The construction of a rocket stove is uncomplicated and simple. I am certain that you will

find

this

work

How to Arrange it

straightforward. This design is 1. Begin by arranging a single

quite simple, and assembly will take

no

longer

than

block as shown below.

two

minutes. Here are the ass ets you should employ: 1. The Brick 2. 3 cylinder blocks

2. Place an H -shaped block on

3. 2paver sets

top of the cinderblock if you have one. 24

3. Next, position a cinderblock in

front

of

the

existing

cinderblocks.

4. Add the remaining brick to the top of the stack. The chimney is now complete, and you may place a grill or cooking surface over the entrance.

25

5. You may now add fuel to the fire and light it.

You can add a second block towards the back of the stove to create a double-burner stove with two cooking zones. This item costs between $6 and $8. It may be erected in minutes with no technical knowledge or skills required. This gadget will allow you to cook or boil water with

minimum

emergency.

26

fuel

in

an

this point, which will result in a

Project 7: Instructions for constructing a solar oven

square-shaped shape.

There is always a way out of a problem. The key is to find it and use it well. This

is

a

straightforward

method for using solar energy

2. Cut the box along the

as a source of cooking heat.

indicated line.

Materials essential: •

Marker

•

Cutter

•

Gum

•

Carton(pizza box)

•

Scissor

•

Paper wrap

•

Black paper

•

Ruler

•

Foil paper

3. Fold the flap backward using a

folding

rule.

Steps 1.

Measure

an

inch

4. Determine the size of the

of

border around the pizza box.

aluminum foil based on the

Utilize your marker to connect

square, or flap.

27

5.

Spread gum on the flap's 7. Remove any excess foil.

surface.

8. Spread gum around the box's edges and cut a square -shaped

6. Cover the area where you put

plastic wrap to fit the box's top.

the gum with aluminum foil.

Then, hold the plastic wrap to

6. Smoothing out the creases and

air

pockets

the top of the box in order to

before

form an airtight seal.

applying the gum on the opposite side. Then, push the foil onto the adhesive surface. 28

9. Apply gum to the borders of

11. Glue the insulation layer of

the bottom of the top cover,

aluminum to the bottom of the

then cover it with the wrap.

pizza box.

12. Cover the bottom with black foil paper. This will aid in heat absorption.

10. Apply gum to the bottom of the box first.

29

Our

oven

is

now

ready.

#7 – Install a hand washing

You can prepare the cookies and

marshmello

using

station and a toilet

a

chocolate combination.

Maintaining sobriety from the start will prevent a multitude of medical complications in the future.

I

would

install

a

sanitation station in the kitchen and bathroom. In the restroom with a window, place a portable Place

your

oven

in

toilet.

direct

sunlight for increased heat.

Our cookies are done baking.

30

Liquid

Project 8: How to Make Homemade Liquid Dish Soap

commercially

additions produced

Soap

● ¼ cup (9 ml) grated castile bar soap, tightly packed ● 15 to 40 drops essential oil

in

● 2

dish

¼

teaspoon

1

to14

g)

tablespoon

soap at home with natural

super washing soda

found

in

(10

to

soap? You may ma ke your own

components

with

Essential Oil

Not a fan of the chemicals and unknown

Dish

● ½ teaspoon (1.5 g) glycerin

your

kitchen or laundry area. Make a

● 1 ½ cups (353 ml) water

basic version with only three

● ¼ cup (60 ml) liquid castile

ingredients,

a

soap

delicious -

smelling version with essential

Liquid Dish Soap with Borax

oils, or a really powerful soap with the cleaning powerhouse

● 1 tablespoon (2 g) Borax

Borax – or try all three and find

● ½ cup (120 ml) liquid castile soap

which works best for your

● 1 tablespoon (14 g) washing

requirements.

soda Ingredients

● 2 ½ cups (600 ml) water

Basic Liquid Dish Soap

● 2 tablespoons (30 ml) white distilled vinegar

● 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 Method

ml) distilled white vinegar

1:

Traditional

Dishwashing Liquid

● 2 cups (470 ml) water ● ¼ cup (9 g) soap flakes 31

1. Combine the water and grated soap in a mixing bowl.

Set the saucepan containing the water and soap on the heat. Allow the mixture to slowly heat on medium for 10 to 15 In

a

medium

sauc e

pan,

minutes, or until the soap has

combine 2 cups (470 mL) water

completely melted. When all of

and 1/4 cup (9 g) soap flakes.

the soap has melted, remove the

Stir the ingredients together

pan from the heat and set it

with a spoon to ensure that the soap

is

evenly

aside for 5 to 10 minutes to

distributed

cool.

throughout the water. ● On the stove, do not allow

● Soap flakes are typically

the mixture to come to a

found in the laundry section

boil. Reduce the heat if it

of supermarkets.

begins to boil.

● If you like, you can use

● Stirring the liquid as it h eats

soap shavings instead of

can aid in the melting of the

store-bought flakes.

soap.

2. Warm the mixture until

3. Incorporate the vinegar.

the soap dissolves.

32

4. Allow the liquid to cool completely before pouring it into a soap dispenser.

After a few minutes, add 1 to 2 teaspoons (15 to 30 mL) of distilled white vinegar to the pan. Stir thoroughly to ensure

Allow the soap to cool entirely

that the vinegar is completely

in the saucepan, which may

incorporated.

take 15 to 20 minutes. Place the

● If you like, you can replace the

vinegar

with

soap in a soap dispenser or

fresh

pump

lemon juice. Both will aid

bottle

next

● A funnel makes it much

when washing dishes.

easier to transfer soap from

● The amount of vinegar you

the pan to the dispenser.

should add to the soap is determined by the thickness

Method

of the mixture. If it's too

Liquid Dish Soap

add

around

2

1. Warm

teaspoons (30 ml) of wa ter

2:

Essentia l

the

water

Oil

and

grated soap together until

to help soften it up. If the soap mixture is

your

kitchen sink.

in the removal of grease

thick,

to

the soap melts.

already

liquid, just add 1 tablespoon (15 ml). 33

Once the soap has completely dissolved and the mixture has been removed from the heat, stir in 1/4 cup (60 ml) liquid castile soap, 2 1/4 teaspoons In

a

medium

saucepan,

(10 g) super washing soda, and

combine 1 1/2 cup (353 ml)

1/2 teaspoons (1.5 g) glycerin.

water and 1/4 cup (9 ml) tightly

Stir until all of the ingredients

packed, grated castile bar soap.

are properly combined.

Turn the heat to medium-high ● Washing soda is commonly

and cook the mixture for 5 to

found in the laundry section

10 minutes, or until the soap is

of large supermarkets. If

completely dissolved. Take the

you can't find it locally, you

pan off the heat.

can get it from one of ● Stir the mixture while it heats

to

let

the

several online retailers.

soap Expert Tip: Simply combine

dissolve faster.

boiling water, castile soap, and

2. Combine the liquid castile

essential

soap, washing soda, and

oil

for

a

qui ck

alternative. 1 1/2 cups boiling

glycerin in a mixing bowl.

water and 1/4 cup castile soap, grated. Then, pour in 1/4 cup of liquid soap. After completely mixing the solution, add 25 –50 drops of your choice essential oil using an eye dropper. Allow 34

the solution to set for 24 hours ,

washing soda, and let it set

stirring every now and then to

again.

check

the

consistency.

The

● If you want to add more

solution will thicken slightly

washing soda, start with 3/4

over time, so adjust with a little

teaspoon (3 g) and let the

warm water as necessary. The

soap soak again. If it's still

solution is then placed in a

too thin, add the washing

container with a pump and is

soda in 1/2 teaspoon (2 g)

ready to use!

amounts until it's the proper consistency.

3. Allow the soap to dry

● Smooth your soap with a

completely.

mixer or immersion blender if it contains chunks or lumps. 4. Add the essential oils and pour the soap into a soap dispenser.

Allow the soap mixture to remain in the pan for 24 hours. During

this

time,

stir

it

occasionally to obtain a sense of the consistency. The soap will thicken up with time, so it's fine if it's a little liquid at first.

When the soap has reached the

If it appears to be too thin,

desired consistency, add 15 to

warm it up, stir in more

40 drops of your preferred essential oil. Pour it into a soap 35

dispenser for use alongside the

Borax, 1 tablespoon (14 g)

kitchen sink after thoroughly

washing soda, 2 tablespoons

stirring to ensure that the oil is

(30 mL) white distilled vinegar,

evenly distributed throughout

and 1/2 cup (120 mL) liquid

the soap for a fresh scent.

castile soap. Stir thoroughly to ensure

● You can use whatever

citrus

oils

all

of

the

components are well combined.

essential oil you like, but

that

● Borax

like

is

a

natural

lemon, lime, and orange

mineral

are

powdered and used in

very

good

removing

at

grease.

that

is

cleaning products like

Juniper and lavender are

dish soap and laundry

also excellent choices.

detergent. Most grocery stores

Method 3: Liquid Dish Soap

it

with

washing soda in the

with Borax 1. Borax,

sell

laundry aisle. washing

● If you wish to perfume

soda,

vinegar, and castile soap

your

should all be combined.

fragrant

dish

such

soap,

castile as

use soap,

lavender,

peppermint, citrus, or tea tree. 2. Bring the water to a boil, then In

a

large

mixing

add

mixture.

bowl,

combine 1 tablespoon (2 g) 36

the

borax

In a medium pot, bring 2 1/2

Allow the soap mixture to cool

cups (600 ml) of water to a boil

to room temperature (about 20

over high heat for 5 to 10

to 30 minutes). Pour it into a

minutes. Remove the pan from

dispenser and set it next to the

the heat and gradually pour in

kitchen sink.

the borax mixture, stirring after each

addition

to

Expert Tip: Combine 1/3 cup

properly

Sals Suds, 3/4 cup water, 1

combine the soap.

tablespoon washing soda (not

● If you want a stronger

baking soda), and ten drops of

aroma in your soap, blend

your favorite essential oil scent.

in 3 to 5 drops of your

Shake the ingredients well, and

preferred essential oil, such

you have powerful dish soap.

as lavender or tea tree.

You can also use Sals Suds to

● It is acceptable if your soap

make a floor or bathroom

is thin and liquidy. As it

cleaner.

cools, it will thicken.

#8 – Create Water Filters

3. Allow the soap to cool before transferring it to a

Installing a Berke y water filter

soap dispenser.

with multiple pre-filters in the kitchen will help keep my drinking water clean and safe. 37

How to Construct Your Very

construct your very own water

Own Filtration System for

filtration system. There are a

Water

multitude of options available, so take your pick.

You could save money in the long run by constructing your

Biological filtering

own filtration system rather This system is for homes. It has

than buying one that is already

three levels, and each level has

made, which is just one of the

sand,

many compelling arguments in

gravel,

and

activated

charcoal. It is a m odern way to

favor of this course of action.

clean water that is simple and And after you've established a

works

base, you can always add on to

filtered so that large particles

it in any way that you see fit.

rise to the top and smaller ones

well.

The

water

is

sink to the bottom.

Also, It is possible that you will need to learn how to make a

The following items are going

water filter in order to survive

to be necessary for assembling

while you are out adventuring,

this water filtration system:

camping, or even if you get lost ✔ Sand

in the woods.

✔ Five five -gallon food -grade Despite the fact that these are extreme unfortunately,

buckets

examples, situations

✔ Hole saw

like

✔ Gravel

these do arise. Therefore, we

✔ Active coal

will

✔ Screen

demonstrate

how

to 38

✔ Plastic piping connections

5. As a direct consequence of this process, potable water is

1. To begin with, invert the

created. Be sure to drill a hole

gallon container so that it is

that is sufficiently large to

facing down. After that, you

enable you to empty the water

will cut a hole in the top in

and dirt out of the container at

order

the end.

to

insert

the

components.

6. Putting it in a catch basin is

2. The first layer is made of

another way to make it simpler

gravel, which is a type of

for you. Aside from t hat, all

rock that looks like small

you've done is creating your

pebbles and will keep trash

own personal carbon filter. You

and maybe even animals

are

out.

make

any

the design that you see fit,

sand, which acts as a filter to any

to

modifications or additions to

3. The next layer is made up of

remove

free

including

microscopic

adding

more

components. There is more than

pollutants that were able to pass

one approach to taking care of

through the previous layer.

things.

4. The fourth and final step involves

the

utilization

Stovetop Distillery

of

activated charcoal. It is possible

This is especially helpful if you

to use it in an effort to get rid of

have a newborn and want to

any chemicals or pathogens that

ensure that it has access to

might have been left behind in

water that is free of any

the liquid.

impurities 39

or

contaminants.

Verify that it has been in

the temperature so that it is

circulation for at least half a

warm but not too hot to

year.

handle. 3. After that, place ice cubes

You will have to put in more

on

effort to s et up this system, but

top

of

installed

once it is completed, you will

the

lid

newly in

the

container. It will help the

be able to draw water from a

vapor in the pot to condense

marsh. It's also possible to

into liquid more quickly.

accomplish this with a wide

4. When you are finished, take

variety of everyday items found

the

around the house.

dish

containing

the

distilled water out of the

Procedures for Distilling on a

oven and turn off the heat.

Stovetop

Created Coal Filtration 1. Water can be distilled usi ng If you think you've heard this

a stove, a grill, or even a

before, you're absolutely right!

campfire. To get started, put

The idea behind the do -it-

about a third of the water in

yourself

a large pot. Place a large

filtration

enough collection basin in

comparable

the pan to make sure the

charcoal

water

system

is

to

what

very we

accomplished with the bio -

distilled water doesn't leak

filter, with the exception that it

back into the main pot.

does not include gravel.

2. Position the lid of the pot in an inverted position on top

On the other hand, if you are

of the container. Increase

working outside and can't make 40

a full bio-filter, you might want

1. Obtain coal that has been

to use this distiller instead.

washed and cooled. 2. Start a campfire, and once it has

✔ A piece of fabric

a beautiful coal bed, bank it

✔ Charcoal

by surrounding it with soil

✔ Two 2-liter plastic bottles

or ash, and then come back

✔ Sand

to it after a day or three.

Sand is placed on top of the

2. Before taking the charcoal

charcoal cover in exactly the

out of the oven, make sure

same way as it is done in the

it

bio-filter. Because this is the

is

completely

cooled

down first.

primary purifier, it has to be set

3. Crush the charcoal

up in stages so that the water

into

small pieces, from powder

can pass through its various

to gravel -sized pieces, for

stages. The water that you get

aquariums.

from this system, in contrast to

4. Obtain

the water that we got from the

or

fashion

a

container in the shape of a

system that we used before, will

cylinder with open ends

be cloudy and not suitable for

(taller

drinking right away.

is

preferable

to

wider). This is something

You have to first boil it before

that Julie is doing with the

you can enjoy the flavor of it.

cut-off end of a 2 -liter drink bottle right now.

Developed a Process for the

5. Stop

Coal Filtration

the

charcoal

from

being lost or washed away by the water by stuffing the 41

smaller opening with tightly

to be used as a partial

packed grass or a piece of

covering for the reservoir.

cloth to prevent it (if both

7. To prevent the charcoal

ends are the same diameter,

from becoming displaced

select

when water is added, cover

either

one).

Alternately, if you are using

the surface of the charcoal

a bottle with the cap still on

with

like we are, you can drill a

compacted grass, sand, or

small hole in the cap before

another piece of fabric and

inserting

then follow step 8 below.

your

fabric

or

grass. This is the method

the

thin

layer

of

8. To collect water, place your

that we are using. 6. PACK

a

filter on top of a container

pulverized

and then pour the water into

charcoal into the container

a container. In order to

as tightly as possible. The

highlight the diff erences,

objective here is to generate

we are using a glass jar, but

a fine matrix through which

when you are out in the

water

drip,

wilderness, it is best to filter

silt

the water directly into the

can

slowly

entrapping additional

and "small beasties." If the

pot you will be boiling the

water flows quickly through

water in rather than the one

the

you will be drinking from

filter

rather

than

dripping, the charcoal in it

(in the event they are not

needs to have a denser

the same).

packing job. There will be

9. Pour the re maining water

enough crushed coal for it

into 42

the

cylindrical

container and slowly pour it

eliminate

through. Slowly pour the

pathogens. (By putting a

water that has not been

pinch of charcoal in the

treated

into

water that's already boiling,

(being

cautious

your

filter

not

to

the

risk

of

you can make the flavor

dislodge your sand). It is

even

better.)

important to keep in mind

advantage

that water should SLOWLY

water you have!

Take

full

the

clean

of

DRIP from the bot tom of

Boiling of Water

the filter. 10. After the entire amount of water through

has the

been

The vast majority of people

filtered

filter,

overlook this step, despite the

you

fact that it is one of the stages

should run it again as many

that is the most fundamen tal

times as is necessary to

and important.

clean it. In most cases, I Experiments

will go through it twice, and

are

needed

because the results are very

in the best case scenario,

different and depend on many

three times.

things, such as the amount of

11. When the water has reached

water used and the type of heat

the level of cleanliness that

source.

you require, bring it to a boil for a few minutes in

When it comes to this situation,

order to effectively sterilize

the most important thing to

it. Keep in mind that boiling

keep in mind is that once the

is the only method that can

liquid 43

begins

to

boil,

the

temperature must be maintained

"Max" are typically found

for three minutes.

on cooktops. 3. Bring the water to a rolling

Methods for Bringing Water

boil and continue to cook it

to a Boil

until

you

see

bubbles

The process of bringing water

forming on the surface.

up to a temperature of 212

When the pot is covered,

degrees

Fahrenheit

in

surface

preparation

for

is

inside, which speeds up the

cooking

called "boiling." However, you

heat

is

trapped

process.

do not need a thermometer in

Water Decontamination by Sunlight

order to bring water to a boil. The process of bringing water and other liquids to a boil is a

Investigate the SODIS method,

straightforward

which stands for Solar Water

one

that

Disinfection, if you haven't

consists of only a few steps.

already come across a solution 1. Pour enough water to cover

that addresses your needs and

the bottom of a skillet or a

works effectively.

saucepan. 2. If we fi ll it up to the very top, there is a

To get started, all you need is a

risk that some of the liquid

location that gets a lot of

will spill out as the bubbles

sunlight and a container for the

form.

water,

as

implied

phrase's own meaning.

2. Put the burner cover on and allow it to get extremely hot. The terms "Hi" or 44

by

the

It could take mo re time to filter

mechanical

the water using this method

assistance.

depending on the water source,

or

chemical

Even if the water has already

which is one of the method's

been

potential drawbacks.

filte red

through

one

system, it is still recommended

1. The first simple step is to put

that it be boiled before being

the water you'll be using into

consumed.

direct sunlight. This will help sterilize

the

water.

It

Methods for Sanitizing Water

is

Using Direct Exposure to the

recommended that a fine screen

Sun

be placed on top of it to prevent

The Solvatten is a transportable

the entry of pollutants.

water filtration and heating

2. If the liquid is clear and uncontaminated,

the

system that was designed for

process

families living off the grid in

should take about two hours.

developing countries. It is a

If the sources were the cause of

simple and clever way for

the murky water, you should

people living in poverty all over

put it away for a few

the world to get access to clean

days.

Keep in mind that doing so

and hot water.

might make the water less pure

Because the part usually lasts

than it otherwise would be.

between seven and ten years, it

It is best to use two different

can still work when kids are

methods of filtering if you do

most lik ely to get sick from

not

water.

have

access

to

either 45

Solvates are also capable of

houses

producing hot water (up to 75

measuring 35 microns in

degrees Celsius).

size.

cotton

filter

2. Powered by the sun: After

This temperature of water is

placing the device so that it

appropriate for a wide range of

gets direct sunlight,

domestic and hygienic tasks,

the

water is heated and then

such as cooking, washing one's

exposed to ultraviolet rays.

hands and other body parts,

3. Radiation purification: A

taking a bath, and cleaning the

combination of heat and

house. After

a

ultraviolet illumination is an the

water

has

been

extremely

successful

purified, customers who would

method of cleaning water.

rather drink water at a cooler

Depending

temperature need only move

circumstances, the water is

their device into the shade.

free of pathogens in two to

Solvatten may be utilized on

six hours using this method.

days with a partly cloudy sky,

on

the

4. The treatment

has been

but this medicati on should not

completed

successfully

be used on days that are cloudy

when

or rainy.

switches from a sad red face

the

indication

to a happy green face after

1. Each of the devices includes

it has been given the go -

two five-liter containers that

ahead.

can be refilled with water through an aperture that opens up like a book and 46

What exactly is meant by the

Unfortunately,

term "water cycle"?

consequence of the damage that

the pollution that we cause to it.

filter is going to be a lot of fun for the children.

The pollutants from our homes, along with the chemicals and

Children will learn about the

fertilizers we use to take care of

water cycle by doing a simple

our

activity that involves a hands-

pollute

the

for human consumption before

can be found either inside or

it even reaches our faucets.

outside the home.

Everything ultimately winds up

When water soaks into the

in our water supply at s ome

ground and is stored in aquifers,

point.

our planet, our world, filters the water naturally.

Read on to find out about the best portable filtration systems

The natural soil of the earth,

that have ever been made.

much like the homemade water make,

lawns,

groundwater, making it unfit

on experiment with things that

we

a

humans cause to our planet and

The construction of their water

filters

as

removes

How Can I Locate the Most

organisms, plants, and other

Effective Filtering Option in

contaminants from the water.

the

Most

Time -Efficient

Manner?

This is an example of what happens during the infiltration

There is a wide variety of

phase of the water cycle.

selections available to choose

47

from when it comes to water

important to keep in mind that

filtration systems.

although this testing method is

Nevertheless, responsible

you for

not as precise as using a test kit,

are

it

determining

can

provide

information

which of these is necessary

you

that

is

with more

fundamental and helpful.

given the circumstances. Now that we have your attention, we

More than just our five senses

will

to

can help us form an opinion

examine the quality of the

about the world around us. For

water.

the purpose of figuring out how

demonstrate

how

good the water is, you can look

First things first, you should be

at it, smell it, and taste it.

aware that there are many

•

different approaches to learning it. Either by using a reliable

Our abilities to sme ll, taste, and see

water testing kit, trusting your

Different smells can sometimes

intuition, or getting an expert

tell whether or not a certain

opinion, you can determine the

substance is in water.

quality of the water.

For instance, if it smells like

The last available choice gives

bleach, it is likely that the water

the impression of being the

treatment plant in your area

most accurate, but it also has

uses chlorine to disinfect the

the highest price tag.

water. This is because ch lorine

If

you

perceptual

are

interested

evaluation,

it

is an effective disinfectant.

in is 48

When exposed to air, this odor

Project 9: HOW TO MAKE SOLAR WAYER PURIFIER/DISTIL LATION SYSTEM WITH PLASTIC BOTTLES

may become less noticeable. Conclusion These

technologies

are

typically more effective than methods based on carbon when it comes to the removal of contaminants.

Requirements: These filters are better than 

carbon filters and can be just as

2 plastic bottles with their caps

good as RO systems while 

being cheaper, wasting less

A 20mm PVC pipe slightly shorter than the bottle

water, and taking out important minerals from the water.

Procedures:

By filtering it, it is possible to

1. Get the two plastic bottles

improve the flavor of your water while also helping to remove pollutants and particles from it. Also, because you don't have to use single -use plastic bottles, this way of getting pure water to drink may be better for the 2. Take off grid caps/covers

environment. 49

3. Put the two caps against each 6. Burrow a 20mm hole on the

other like this

caps

4. Take apart and add glue to the surface

7. Measure the length of your PVC pipe with the bottle 5. Put both caps together and press firmly to hold 50

10. Let the other bottle go through the PVC pipe and 8. Wear/attach the caps to one

tighten it up

end of the PVC pipe

11. Tighten it up 9. Attach the PVC pipe having the caps on to one of the plastic bottles

The system is ready

51

15. Put the system under the sun to be heated up

12. Now unattach the bottles and feel the down bottle with

16. After few hours, heated

your water

water evaporates through the PVC tube/pipe leaving dirty water behind. Tip: Water vapour condenses and clean water is collected in

13. Put back the other upper

the catchment bottle.

bottle having the caps and PVC 17. Unscrew the process when

pipe

you're done

14. Tighten everything up

52

18. Collect your clean water.

Project 10: What to Do to Get Started with the Free Heater During the winter, everyone will likely sleep close to the fireplace

or

wood -burning

stove. It is essential to get those running and bring in adequate wood from the woodpile. 1. Gather your old newspapers and

unwanted

mail

(gather

them up instead of putting them Clean water

into the garbage).

Tip: You can repeat the process as much as you like to get clean water. Ensure to have your

2. Obtain three buckets in total.

bottles clean and free from contaminants.

53

4. Grab the subsequent pail and 3. Using a drill, put holes in the

insert the first pail with holes

bottom of one of the buckets,

inside this one.

and afterwards, create holes all around the exterior of the bucket to allow water to flow through.

54

5. Put all of your garbage, including your documents, in the bucket with holes.

8. After letting it soak the night before, you must grind it all up (you can use a mixer that is 6. Add water to produce paper mache

or

pulp,

based

used for mixing up concrete in

on

buckets).

personal choice.

9. Add a great deal of water and continue grinding.

7. Add a bunch of sawdust (optional).

55

10. Grab the third bucket and

11. Lift the bucket containing

place it in a mill creek so that

the mixture and place it directly

the combination can drain from

on top of the bucket containing

the bucket.

the drain.

56

12. Remember that the bucket containing the mixture has a number of holes. Put the second bucket, which also has water in it, on top of the mixture to help get the water out. 14.

Remove/separate

the

mixture.

15. To extract the mixture from the pail, invert the pail over a surface and then remove the

13. Allow it to completely drain

mixture.

before proceeding. You can provide it with a small amount of provocation. 57

17.

You

could

attempt

to

fashion it into logs for the fire.

16. You may now cut it into the proper size for the fire bricks so that it can dry more rapidly.

58

18. Leave it alone for a week or two, and it will be entirely dry.

And that concludes everything!

#12 – Serve the Ice Cream Due to our inability to preserve 19. Place it there to be burned

it, eating all of the ice cream in

in your fireplace.

the freezer would likely be the

59

last thing we a ccomplish in the allotted time.

Project 11: How to Dehydrate Foods

I should be mostly settled in by

Drying food is another method

now and can begin working on

for preserving food that can be

the next list of tasks.

used in addition to canning an d freezing. Certain foods have their moisture removed so as to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and other organisms that would otherwise lead to spoilage or deterioration. The most efficient method of drying is when it is done in the open air, in an oven, or in a food dehydrator. All foods that are able to withstand the drying process

include

vegetables,

fruits, herbs, meats, and fish. Certain preparation steps need to be followed before foods can be dried properly. Method 1: Preparing The Food For The Drying Process

60

you

cut

them

into

smaller pieces that are at least half an inch (3.8 centimeters) thick. 1.

Begin

by

thoroughly

washing your hands with soap and water, and then disinfect

any

equipment

tools

that

or •

you

Wrap one quart (0.94 liters)

intend to use.

of

chopped

vegetables in a piece of cheesecloth that is 36 inches (91 centimeters) long.

2. Very clean and recently harvested

vegetables, •

such as green beans, corn, and

peppers,

On the stovetop, blanch the vegetables in the

among

others.

cheesecloth

•

Using a knife, carefully

placing

remove

saucepan that is only

any

bag

them

a

half

skin.

water. In addition, you

drying

could

vegetables, it's easier if 61

put

of

in

imperfections from the When

full

by

a

boiling

quarter

teaspoon, which is equal

or halves measuring half

to

an inch (1.27 cm) on a

1.2

citric water.

milliliters, acid

into

the

side. Put in a minimum

blanching

of one quart (0.94 liters)

process can take up to

of water into the large

six minutes, after which

saucepan.

the

The

of

bag

should

be

immersed in cold water for the same amount of time. •

To the water, add up to 1.5 teaspoons

(7.3

ml)

of

sodium sulfate or sodium bisulfate that is of a quality suitable

for

human

consumption. Soak the fruit for approximately five to fifteen minutes, the length of time varying according to the thickness of the slices. First, give the fruit a quick

3. Prepare the fruit, such as apples,

cherries,

rinse in ice water, and then

and

place it on a rack to dry.

peaches, by washing and chopping them. •

For more even drying, cut the fruit into cubes 62

•

Thinly slice the lean meat or salmon to a thickness of 1/4 to 1/2 inch (1.27 cm).It is necessary to remove the

4.

•

•

It is time to gather the

fat from the meat before

herbs once the morning

drying it because the fat

dew has dried up and the

will cause the meat to

sun has come up.

become damaged. •

To prevent the herbs from

Freeze for approximately

wilting, it is important to

one month any meat or fish

collect them as soon as the

that is going to be dried.

morning dew has dried.

The temperature at which

After washing the herbs

the freezing point is reached

with lukewarm water, give

should be at or below 32

them

degrees Celsius (17 degrees

a

remove

good any

shake

to

Celsius).

excess •

moisture.

You'll need to defrost the meat

and

refrigerator.

fish

in

Add

the salt,

various seasonings, and any marinades of your choice before drying the meat. Keep in mind that you need 5.

Chop and prepare the

to wash your hands once

seafood and lean meats as

more after tou ching any

desired.

meat, vegetables, or herbs. 63

Method 2: Choose the Best

3.

Drying Method

Position the drying trays inside

the

appropriate

piece of equipment.

1.

Arrange slices of meat, vegetables, and fruit in a

4. You should get started

single layer on drying

with the drying process.

trays. Put the trays in the

•

If you use an oven,

food dehydrator or oven

keep the door cracked

and start the process.

open just a crack and a ventilation fan nearby. •

Since

the

food

dehydrator already has a ventilation fan, you 2.

If the meat was seasoned

should close the door to

with a marinade, line the

the appliance.

bottom of the device used for

drying

it

•

with

You can either hang the herbs to dry in the air

aluminum foil. This will

or put them in a food

catch any drips that may

dehydrator. Herbs like

occur.

basil, sage, rosemary, and

thyme

can

be

strung up in the garden in tight little bunches. 64

To hasten the drying

Project 12: DIY Vinegar Pickling

process, place the herbs in a food dehydrator.

The first pickling method involves vinegar.

Canning

1. Simply soak the food in acidic

vinegar

containing at least 5 percent acidity. Some techniques

involve

boiling the food in the vinegar solution. There is much debate as to whether

these

"quick

pickles"

require

refrigeration. As long as the lid remains intact, the vinegar should preserve the food for up to a few weeks, even

if

refrigerated.

65

it

is

not

Method 2: The Easy Pickle

When the vinegar pickles are

left

out

of

the

refrigerator, there is a risk of

contamination.

Therefore, for the pickles to last a very long time,

1.

The

they must be canned after being

pickled.

Gather your materials. following

components

When

making

preserved, pickles can last

are

the

essential

pickles

for from

scratch:

for more than five years.

● 4 onions ● 1 cup vinegar ● 2

tbsp.

chopped

fresh

parsley ● Salt ● 2 cups sugar ● 4 medium cucumbers

These beans are placed in a

2. Thin slices are cut into

vinegar solution and afterwards

four medium cucumbers

canned to extend their shelf life

and four onions. Peel the

from weeks to years.

cucumber and cut it into 66

thin medallions after you've removed

the

skin.

5. The container must be at

The

least 1 foot (0.3 m) x 9

onions are cut into bite-

inches (30.5 x 22.8 cm) in

sized pieces using a dicer.

size and at least half a foot (15.2 cm) tall. T he ratios described here will make it easier for the cucumbers to take in the liquids.

3. A

container

alternating cucumbers After

has

layers and

the

of

onions.

layer

of

cucumbers, the next layer should consist of onions.

6. Refrigerate overnight. The

Using a fork will allow you

next day, remove the jar

to distribute the onions over

from the refrigerator and

the pickles in an even

allow the cucumbers to

manner. After adding a tiny

come to room temperature.

sprinkle of salt to the layer, 4. Add

another

layer

of

cucumbers and onions and salt once more. Keep piling the cucumbers and onions

7. Prepare and set aside the

on top of each other until all

pickling

of the vegetables have been

liquid.

Mix

together two cups of sugar,

used up.

one cup of white vinegar, 67

and two tablespoons of salt

life of several weeks when

to

stored in the refrigerator.

make pickling liquid

(29.6 ml). Fresh parsley was cut up and placed in a pot. On the stovetop, bring this mixture to a simmer until the sugar has completely dissolved.

Serve. Take the pickles out of the refrigerator the following day and use them in a salad, on a sandwich, or as a side dish with another food.

8. Pickle

the

Remove

the

cucumbers.

3. Making pickles

cucumbers

from the refrigerator and

You will appreciate pickles

drain out any additional

even more if you make them

juice

yourself, despite the fact that

that

accumulated.

may After

have

they

that,

are

already

fantastic

pour the sugar syrup that

themselves. You will not only

has been brought to a boil

be able to control the level of

over the cucumbers and put

sweetness or heat

them

the

pickles, but you will also be

refrigerator. The pickles can

able to appreciate the flavor of

be eaten as soon as the

homemade pickles that have

following day after being

been properly prepared. If you

prepared. They have a shelf

want to learn how to make

back

in

68

in

your

pickles, all you have to do is follow these steps. The

basics

of

producing

pickles 2. The blossom end of the cucumber should never be left intact. The flower end can be identified by the small brown circle at its tip. 1.

Choose cucumbers that

Because the end includes an

are as fresh as possible.

enzyme, it has the potential

The more crunchy your

to loosen and, as a result,

pickles turn out to be, the

make your pickles mushier.

more recently picked your cucumbers

were.

cucumbers

you

If

the

use

are

already on the softer side,

3. Give some thought to your

the pickles you make will follow

suit.

Before

cuts. When you cut or slice

you

the cucumbers more, the

begin pickling, you should

pieces will grow thinner; as

make a trip to the market or

a result, they will lose some

the area of the store that

of their crunchiness. Simply

specializes in produce.

slice

the

cucumber

numerous times in such a way that it maintains more 69

of its natural form will

Spicy Pickles

result in pickles that have a crunch that is authentic. If you use whole pickles, your dish will have a much more robust level of heat. 1. Gather

all

of

your

ingredients. The following are the components that must be present in order to

4. Use salt. The use of salt is essential for extending the

make hot pickles:

pickling

and

•

1 dried bay leaf

wringing more water out of

•

¾ cup water

the cucumbers. If you are

•

½ tsp. whole mustard

process

seed

on a diet, you can reduce •

the amount of sugar and

6½

tbsp.

white -wine

vinegar

other components, but if the

•

1 lb. medium cucumbers

appropriate amount of salt,

•

3 cloves garlic

the pickles you make w ill

•

6½ tbsp. white distilled

you

be

don't

add

tasteless

vinegar

and •

unappealing.

½

tsp.

black

peppercorns •

70

1 tsp. fresh dill weed

•

2/3 cup organic light

preserving

brown sugar

pickling brine.

2. pound

cucumbers

in

medium-sized

peeled cucumbers

5. Put one dried b ay leaf,

3.

Slice the cucumbers into

three

chopped

garlic

cloves,

one

of

half

a

teaspoon of whole black

thin half-moons. By slicing

peppercorns, one half of a

them into thin medallions, you will be able to store them in a jar or another type

teaspoon

of

whole

mustard

seed,

one

teaspoon of fresh dill, and

of container.

one

in

Combine

the all

container. of

the

ingredients in the container so that they spread

out

equally over the cucumber.

4. Put the cucumbers in a jar or other container that holds two quarts. This size will

be

perfect

for 71

Get the mixture for the brine ready. Mix together 2/3 cup organic light brown sugar, 6 tablespoons

white -distilled

vinegar, 6 tablespoons white wine vinegar, and 3/4 cup water. Give this combination a good stir until the sugar and vinegar

are

completely 7. Refrigerate, covered. To

combined and the sugar has

bring out the full flavor of

dissolved entirely.

the cucumbers, place them in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours.

6. To brine the cucumbers, pour the brining solution 8. Serve. You can put the

over them. To make sure

pickles on a sandwich or

the mixture covers all of the

serve them as a complement

pickles evenly, put the lid

to

on the jar or other container

other

foods.

These

pickles can be stored in the

and shake it hard.

refrigerator for up to three months without going bad.

72

spears. Take off the top of

Method 4: Garlic Dill Pickles

the bloom.

1. Gather your materials. The following are the

3. Make the salty solution.

components that must be

2 tablespoons of honey,

present in order to make

together with 1 and a half

garlic dill pickles: •

2 tsp. black peppercorns

•

4 tsp. dill seed

•

1½ cups apple cider vinegar

•

3 lbs. kirby cucumbers

•

8 peeled garlic cloves

•

1 tsp. red chili flakes

•

2 tbsp. pickling salt

•

1½ cups filtered water

cups

of

apple

cider

vinegar and 1 and a half cups

of

filtered

water

(29.6 ml). Pickling salt in a saucepan It is important that this mixture be heated to a boil.

4. Split into two one -quart jars: eight garlic cloves,

2. Scrub and pat dry three

four teaspoons of dill

pounds' worth of Kirby

seed, two teaspoons of

cucumbers. They were

black peppercorns, and

hacked into the shape of 73

one teaspoon of dried

be

left

between

the

red chili flakes. If you do

surface of the brine and

not have access to two

the rim of the jar. Tap the

quart jars, you may use

jars lightly to remove any

four pint jars in their

air bubbles that may have

place.

formed.

The

process

is

pickling negatively

impacted by the presence of air bubbles.

5. After

cutting

cucumbers,

the

arrange

them in the jars in the appropriate order. It is

7. Place the caps on the

important that they be packed possible

as

tightly

without

bottles. Put the lids on the

as

jars, but don't screw them

being

on too tightly; you want

crushed in the process.

the mixture to be able to breathe while it's in there.

6. The container receives the brine that was just

8. Allow

poured in. Only a quarter

the

jars

to

completely cool. Wait at

of an inch of space should

least ten to fifteen minutes 74

for the jars to reach room temperature.

1. Gather The 9. Refrigerate. The pickles

your

following

materials. are

the

components that must be

should be kept in the

present in order to make

refrigerator for at least a

sweet pickles:

week before being eaten.

•

1/8 cup salt

•

2 lbs. cucumbers

•

1/4 tsp. ground turmeric

•

1

cup

apple

cider

vinegar •

1/2 tsp. mustard seed

the pickles as a side dish

•

1 cup white sugar

with any dinner, or you

•

2 sweet onions

10. Serve. You can include

can

snack

on

them

whenever you like.

Method

5:

Making

Some 2. Prepare the brine or salty

Delicious Pickles

water. In a small pot set over medium heat, combine one cup of apple cider 75

vinegar, one eighth of a cup

sweet

onions

of salt, one cup of white

small pieces.

into

very

sugar, one quarter of a teaspoon

of

ground

turmeric, and half of a teaspoon of mustard seeds. 5. The

vegetables

are

crammed into a canning jar that is a quart in size. Put

the

objects

in

the

3. Bring this mixture to a

container carefully so that

boil, then reduce the heat

they don't get crushed. If

to a simmer and let it cook

you do not have a jar that is

for at least five minutes.

a quart in size, you can use two jars that are a pint in size instead.

4. Two

onions

and

two

pounds of cucumbers are peeled and sliced. It is recommended

that

each

6. Pour the brine into the

cucumber be cut into at

container

least three to four spears,

that

contains

the veggies. After putting

depending on the thickness

the lid back on, shaking the

of the cucumber. Cut the 76

# 2 - Protect the Woodpile I would store my woodpile in

container hard will make sure that all of the parts are

my garage, which is mostly dry

mixed well.

and

safe,

disappear.

7. Refrigerate. combination

Put

this

in

the

refrigerator for at least a day to get the best possible outcomes.

8. Serve.

Pickle

these

asparagus stalks and serve them

with

your

next

sandwich or dinner as an appetizer or a side dish. Smoking

dehydrator.

77

so

it

wouldn't

air. If you can, get the wood

Project 13: How to Get Wood and Let It Dry

a year ahead of time so that it has enough time to dry

Freshly cut wood holds on to a

out.

lot of water, which makes it



hard to start a fire and keep it

The drying time can depend on the weather. If you live

going. Even if it does burn, wet

in a very wet area, give

wood creates more smoke and

yourself more time.

soot and gives off less heat.



Denser types of wood, like

Effectively drying wood does

elm and oak, also take

take time, so it's best to plan at

longer to dry.

least six months in advance.

2. Choose

But once the wood has been cut

workplace. If you didn't

to the right size and carefully

buy split firewood, find a

stacked, all you have to do is

place outside where you can

wait for the sun and air to dry it

cut and split the wood

out.

yourself. Make sure the area

a

secure

is clear enough so that you Part 1: Splitting the Wood

can use a saw and/or an ax

1. Gather the wood early.

without getting in the way.

You should buy firewood or

If you want to work safely,

cut it down at least six

choose a flat surface over

months before you want to

one that isn't even. 

use it. For the best results,

Keep people and animals

do it even earlier to give it

far away from

the area

even more time to dry in the

where

working.

78

you're

When you start to cut and

them into rounds of equal

split, make sure to look

length.

behind you often to make



sure no one is coming. 3.

Some people like to cut rounds that are bigger than

Cut whole logs into

they need because wood

rounds of the same size.

shrinks as it dries. 

If you're just starting out, it's best to be safe and cut smaller pieces until you know how much the wood will shrink.



If you live in a wet area, cut the rounds even smaller so they dry faster.

First, measure the size of your



fireplace, furnace, or any other

Cutting wood into the same lengths will make it easier

place where y ou will burn

to stack it.

wood. Then, take three inches

4. Cut the wood in half

(7.6 cm) away from either the length or width of the wood, depending on how it needs to fit into the space. Use this number to figure out how long each whole log is and mark where to cut it. Use a saw or an ax to cut

79

5.

Put your cutting block

Part 2: Storing Your Cut

on a flat surface. Place a round

Wood

on top with the side that was cut facing up. The round can be cut or sawed in half from the top down. 6.

Repeat with each half to

make splits of wood that will fit in your fireplace, furnace, or other wood-burning appliance. 

Split the wood at least once, 1. Locate a suitable location

even if your wood burner

for stacking items. To get

can fit a whole round. Since

the most out of solar drying,

the bark seals in moisture, it

choose a spot outside that

is important to show as

gets little to no shade. Use

much of the inner wood as

the air by choosing a place

possible. 

that is open t o the winds or

Cut the wood into smaller

other air currents that are

pieces than you need to dry

already there.

it faster. 

from places where water is

Also, cut the wood into

likely to flood, run off, or

pieces of different sizes. Make

small

pieces

Stay away

stand.

for 

kindling and larger pieces

Use almanacs or weather stations to find out which

that will burn longer.

way the winds usually blow in your area. 80



If your land has a lot of

3. Build a raised garden

hills, air currents will flow

bed.

up and down the sides of the hills. 2.

Sketch your row(s).

4.

Don't put firewood on

the ground. Don't let the water that collects below cause rot. Use something that won't soak up water, like concrete or a grid of poles laid out in a straight Plan to stack your wood in a

line. In a pinch, you can use

single row if you can, so that

pallets or lumber that you

the cut ends face the strongest

don't need for anything else.

air currents. Use this method

Make the bed as level as

instead of adding up rows.

you can so that you can

Allow all of your wood to

stack it safely.

get

the same amount of air. 



If you use wood, cover the

Have enough room for one

top of the bed with tarps,

long row of wood, put each

plastic sheets, or something

row as far apart as you can

similar to stop moisture

to let the most air flow

from getting from the wood

between them.

below to the wood on top. 81

5.

At the same time, make

build them all at the same

holes in the materials so

time, stop when they are

water doesn't pool on top.

about 4 feet (1.2 m) tall.

Build bookends.

This way, if the pile falls, the top will still be below the heads of most adults. 

Put your best pieces at the ends of the books. Check that each piece of wood is

First, put the bottom layer of

even on all sides. Throw

split wood along the length of

away any that looks like it's

the raised bed to make the first

getting smaller from one

row. Set each piece up so that

end to the other. If such

the cut ends all point in the

pieces

same direction.

structure may not be as



used,

the

stable as we want it to be. Then, make a second layer



at each end of your row

absorb water, this will help

opposite way. To make stable

bookends,

protect the wood from rain.

keep

6.

adding to both ends of your

in

a

Stack your wood on

top of one another.

row by making each layer face

Put the bark side up on each piece. Since bark does not

with the cut ends facing the

different

direction. 

are

You can finish the ends all at once or as you go. If you 82

Between the bookends is where you should start the second layer. Place the cut ends so that they face the same way as the ends of the bottom layer. Set each piece so that it covers two pieces in the bottom layer by

Decide if you want to leave the

going across where the two

pile as it is, or cover it so it

bottom

doesn't get wet when it rains.

pieces

meet.

Keep

doing this until the pile is 4 feet

Use black or clear plastic

(1.2 m) high.

sheeting to cover it if you



Put each piece in place so

decide t o. For the best results,

that the bark is facing up.

support the sheeting with things

This will protect the wood

other than the pile, like stakes

from rain.

or poles, so they don't touch.





7.

When gaps need to be filled



When

the

sheeting

and

for stability, use smaller

wood are in direct contact,

pieces to fill them.

the wood can soak up

If the layer is capable o f

condensation

supporting the next one,

plastic. It also makes it

leave the spaces as they are

harder for air to move, and

for better airflow.

the friction could cause the

Cover if desired.

from

the

plastic to tear. 

Use things that can black up heat and speed up the rate at which

83

water

evaporates.

Clear things let the sun 

2. Check for sap. Hold a

shine right through.

piece of the wood up to

If you leave your pile open,

your nose and take a deep

the wood should be dry by

breath when you first split

the time you need it, unless

it.

you get a lot of rain or have a very short drying season. Part 3: Checking to see if it's dry

Learn what the smell of its sap is like. Then, when you're ready to burn the wood, pick a piece from the pile to use as a test. 1. Take a look at the color.

Cut it open and smell it. If you

Even though each type of

can still smell the sap, put it

wood is a different color,

back in the pile to dry some

you can expect your wood

more.

to get darker as it dries. Observe how b right the

3.

inside is when you first split

the wood safe to burn if most or

the wood. Wait until the

all of the bark has fallen off on

mostly white wood turns

its own. If not, use a knife to

yellow or grayish before

cut off the bark. Check out the

you burn it.

wood right underneath. Pieces

84

Give it a try. Consider

that look green need more time

pieces nor the bigger ones catch

to dry before they can be used.

fire, it means they are still too

4.

wet and need more time to dry.

Decide by weight. Note

how heavy each piece feels

If they do catch something,

when you first split the wood.

listen for a hissing sound,

Once the water weight is gone,

which means there is water in

the same piece will weigh a lot

it.

less. Knock two pieces together

My advice is to start getting this

to make sure that they are dry.

project done now for the woods

If they sound hollow, they are

to dry out properly in case we

likely to be dead.

need to make use of them any day and any time. #4-Water Acquisition

To capture additional water, I would detach my downspouts 5.

Set up a fire.

from my roof gutters (where they are already chopped in half and reconnected) and place a barrel or bucket underneath them to collect rainwater. This will add several more rain barrels to my collection.

If you are still not sure, put together a few pieces and try

If there is no EMP, transport a

them out. If neither the small

truck and trailer to the Murdock 85

Canal first for extra water. If so,

Project 14: Trapping for Game

utilize the handcart.

For various reasons, snares and traps are the preferable methods for capturing game in a survival situation. You may have a gun, but firing it could give away your location and scare away the wildlife, so you may need to hide

your

ammunition

to

protect yourself. Developing proficiency with snares and traps will give you the courage to live in the most perilous environments. Where can I locate miniature games? The

identification

of

game

tracks and runs is crucial. Trails are commonly utilized by a range of animals, including huge predators, to access and depart

from

water

sources.

Animal runs, on the other hand, 86

are often used by the same kind

functions of a small game

of animal until it moves its

trap. Each begins with an

burrow or den.

engine consisting of a young tree attached to a snare that

The animal utilizing the run has

captures

discovered the safest and most convenient

route

to

to a base stick that is sunk in the ground. In addition, a leader

the

line tied to the top of the hook

surrounding area for animal droppings chewed

and

gnawed

vegetation.

A

stick, which is notch -connected

there is also a "bolt hole" or Examine

animals.

noose is attached to a hook

food

sources and dens. Typically,

backdoor.

small

stick connects it to the engine's

or

branch. Whenever an animal

Once

walks through the nose, the

you've found the areas where

sticks are removed and the

you want to set your traps, try

leader line raises the noose to

not to walk through them too

capture it.

much so you don't leave a trail.



Method 1: Creating a Small

The connection between the two sticks is referred to as a

Game Trap

"hook trigger." 

The force that pulls the animal up using a noose is sustained by the tension between the engine's branch pulling up on the leader line

1. Acquaint yourself with the many

components

and also the base stick

and 87

holding

the

hook

stick

firmly in place. 2. Locate a young, sturdy tree near

animal

signals

of

activity.

If feasible, use craft wire, picture hanging wire, or copper strands. If you choose to use a different material, make sure it is both flexible enough to tighten quickly when pulled and

Select a tree that is both young

sturdy enough to keep little

and robust but not so rigid that

games in the air.

it cannot flex, as it will function



as the engine. Search potential

In addition to shoelaces,

locations for animal shelters,

dental floss, and fishing

animal footprints, and other

line, additional supplies are

signs of animal activity.

shoelaces, dental floss, and

•

fishing line.

Select a tree that will



hold the game until it is

If

you

unprepared

discovered.

find

yourself in

the

wilderness,

use dogbane,

3. Select between 18 and 24

milkweed,

and

inches (46 and 61 cm) of

nettle to fashion a noose.

stinging

material for the noose. 4. Use the desired material to create a noose. 88

must still use an odd number

to

create

a

proper knot. •

To finish the noose,

Make a U -shaped curve with

tighten it by pu lling

the opening on the left (also

down on the right edge

known as a bight).Create an "S"

of the noose made by

shape by bending a second

the first bight.

bend in the opposite direction at

5. At one end of the leading

the end of the first curve. Place

line, fashion a pencil -sized

the material's end underneath

loop.

all three legs and wrap it over them; replicate at least six times. To create a loop, the top of the second bend must extend over the topmost turn. Pass the loose end of the fabric through

Create a wire loop by forming a

the front -to-back loop made by

circle

the second bight.

repeatedly twisting the other

•

Tighten

each

end

and

thread's loose end back upon itself, then tie an overhand

turn

knot. Pass the remaining free

individually as you go. •

one

end back onto itself. Fold the

Verify that all three legs of the "S" are parallel.

•

with

end of the material through the

You can make well over

loop after constructing a loop.

seven twists, but you 89

•

Tie an overhand knot by

axe or saw, and make small,

grabbing the material 2

even strokes away from you.

to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6

Continue removing sections of

cm) from the noose's

the stick while rotating it until a

end. Slip the material

point is formed.

over the gripping point



(known as the standing

Ensure that the point is sufficiently

part) and tuck it into the

sharp

to

penetrate the dirt.

opposite loop. Using the loop, draw it towards

7. Get a hook stick that is

you. Now, separate the

slightly shorter than the base

ends to tighten the knot.

stick.

6. Sharpen the end of a base stick of 2 feet (0.61 meters) in length.

One end of the hook stick will be attached to the noose and the other end will be attached to the Find

a

stick

made

of

leader engine. In addition, its

a

hardwood such as ash, oak,

notched design will fasten it to

hickory,

the ground stick.

maple,

or

Osage.

Attain a 45-degree angle toward

•

the stick with a knife or other

Search for a stick of comparable thickness to

cutting instrument, such as an

the base stick. 90

8. Carve a notch into the tip of each stick.

Connect the detached end to the place slightly above the notch connecting the hook stick to the Begin by tracing the lines of the

base stick on the hook stick.

notch with a knife. Ensure that

After attaching the noose to the

each notch is between 2 and 3

hook, secure it by pulling up on

inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) in length

the thread and down on the

and that it begins between 2 and

hook.

3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) from

•

the end of each stick. •

Ensure that the noose is as firmly tied to the stick as possible.

At completion, attach the sticks using their notches.

Ensure

when

they

10. Connect the hook using

that

the leader line to the motor.

are

connected, you can pull them

in

different

directions without them coming apart.

Verify that the hook's noose is

9. Attach the free end of the

secured

noose to the base of the hook.

notch. Attach the unattached

directly

above

the

end of the leader line to the unattached end of the hook, and 91

then attach the unattached end of the leader line to the engine tree. Ensure that the hook can reach the base of the sapling by tying a knot approximately 6 to

The sapling ought to be bent at

12 inches (15 to 30 cm) from

a 90-degree angle following the

the top of the sapling's branch

attachment of the sticks. Ensure

and then lowering the hook to

that the noose is on the ground

the base stick.

and that the loop is open so that

•

your target can be captured.

Confirm that the sapling is

sturdy

enough

to

•

Your trap is now ready!

attach to the foundation

Test it by placing a stick

piece by conducting a

into

test. If it is excessively

activate it.

loose, shorten the string.

•

To

the

disarm

If the leader line is too

disconnect

short

the

stick

without

stick.

to

branch's

reach root

from

trigger

the the the

to

trap, hook base

breaking it, replace it Method 2: Construction of

with a longer one.

Fish Traps 11. To arm the trap, join the 1. Using a knife, remove the

notches just on the hook stick

cap from a 0. 52 gallon (2.0 L)

to the base stick.

soda bottle.

92

Hold the opening of the bottle upward. Turn the cap so that the point points downward and insert it into the hole. Gently press it inside the bottle until it In this trap, any form of plastic

fits snugly.

bottle can be used. Horizontally •

insert the knife into the bottle

Don't worry if the cap of

so that the curve becomes

the bottle is somewhat

straight. Holding the bottle still,

slack

move the knife inside and out

you may tighten it with

as you draw it around the

screws.

bottle's circle. •

To

after

insertion;

3. Drive two screws through avoid

to the bottle's sides at the top -

cutting

side junction.

yourself, be certain to keep the bottle away from the cutline. 2. Put the bottle's cap into the body of the bottle.

After fixing the cap, lay the bottle on its side on a level surface. Obtain the screw hole locations by angling the tip of an electric drill downward 45 degrees. Drill the holes while 93

the bottle is held stationary. The

allow the trap to be fastened to

top of the bottle is then attached

the lakebed. To attract fish, add

to the bottom by putting screws

small pieces of bait, insects, or

through the holes and putting

fish food to the water.

nuts over them. •

•

optimal

Use small M3*8 (3 mm

success,

x 6 mm) stainless steel

maggots,

304 screws with M3

cereal as bait.

nuts if possible. •

For

use

fishing worms,

hotdogs,

or

5. Place the bottle in shallow

If you don't have a

water, such as a lake.

power drill, make the initial holes using tacks. With your hands or a screwdriver, tighten the screws into position. 4. Fill the bottle with stones

After placing the bottle, you are

and fish food.

required to wait. Once the fish swim through t he hole, they will

be

Continue

unable

to

escape.

building

and

deploying traps to increase your chances of capturing fish. Put several pebbles or small rocks

through

the



opening.

To

make

your

trap

travel-friendly, drag it

Filter it just sufficiently to

across densely inhabited 94

water locations. Perform

before

this on a regular basis,

water and soap.

and

you

may

•

be

fortunate!

washing

with

If you're unable to find pine trees, look for any tree whose bark has a

Method 3: Constructing a

pitch-like material.

Bird Trap

2. Apply pine sap to the inner surface

of

a

plastic

cup.

1. Pine trees' bark should be stripped of pine resin. Put on some discarded clothing and gloves. Use a little knife to remove the outer layer of resin

Utilize the knife to scrape the

from nearby pine trees. After

inside of the glass jar. Apply

extracting it, scrape it int o a

pine sap to the interior of the

glass jar with a hunting knife.

plastic cup with your knife.

In chilly weather, it may be

Keep rub bing until a thin layer

essential to break off the resin

of sap completely coats the

rather than scrape it off.

interior.

•

•

To remove pine resin,

maximum results.

apply melted animal fat to

the

affected

Utilize Dixie cups for

area

95

3. The inside of the cone must

4. Put the cup on its side in a

be lined with bird food or

location frequented by active

bait.

birds.

Purchase

bird

food

Ideal are open areas near trees

or

alternative bait, like peanuts,

and vegetation, as well as spots

millet,

with vantage points, including

or

Sprinkle

safflower them

seeds.

trees

liberally

and

power

addition

cup. Cover the cup's rim with

chirping and bird sounds, look

your palm and violently shake

for popular perching areas, such

it.

as those close to or above the

spreading

and

for

nest.

shaking the seeds until an inner seed layer forms. •

listening

In

throughout the interior of the

Continue

to

lines.



Male

birds

sing define

Using a knife, evenly

regularly

to

distribute

territorial

boundaries;

the

seeds

throughout the interior

by

of the cup to create a

locations on a map, you

consistent covering of

can

bait.

location of the nest. 

marking

these

estimate

the

Females frequently call to their mates on their

96

way to the nest; listen

Project 15: How to Raise Cattle

for their cries to locate the nest!

There

are

a

variety

of

approaches to raising cattle, and anyone who works with cattle, whether they have experience or not, will agree with this statement. The manner in which cattle are raised is contingent not only on the person who is responsible for their upbringing but also on the breed, class, and species of cattle that are in question. Beef cows, for e xample, are raised to be low -maintenance and to produce calves that are 95 percent of the time sold for beef, whereas dairy cows are raised to produce milk but not calves. Beef cows are raised to be low -maintenance and to produce calves that are 95 percent of the time sold for beef. When compared to dairy 97

cattle, beef cattle are reared in a

to get the business you are

significantly wider variety of

managing off the ground,

ways than these animals are in

you will need to

order to produce beef.

chosen your cattle carefully before going out and buying

As a consequence of this, the

them.

focus of this article will be limited

to

discussing

have

2. You put into action the

th e

operational

fundamentals of raising cattle,

and

strategic

plans you made before you

with some passing mention of

started your cattle business.

the processes involved in beef

You tried to stick as closely

and dairy production.

as

possible

to

the

Please do not consider the

operational

information on this page to be a

goals you wrote down in

step-by-step tutorial. Think of it

your business plan before

as a chance to learn about what

you

to expect and what tasks need

business. It is possible that

to be done when raising cattle.

you will quickly learn that

and

started

strategic

your

cattle

some of your plans will not

Steps

work

out

as

you

had

envisioned and that you will be

required

to

make

concessions whenever and wherever necessary.

1. Get some cattle and start building your herd. In order 98

they

are

•

•

On the other hand, if

Marketing and selling a wide

you have done as much

range of cattle, such as dairy,

research

beef

as

possible

cow -calf,

before purchasing your

backgrounding/stocker,

animals, very few, if

feedlot cattle.

any, of your plans will

The

require

replacement heifers and the

significant

criteria

for

and

selecting

changes or rethinking

management of the herd (dairy

on your part.

and beef cow-calf only) 

The following is a list of the

most

significant

Requirements

for

the

management of cows,

aspects of the plan for

bulls, and heifers in

your company that you

terms of culling (dairy

are required to put int o

and beef cow-calf only).

action (some of these

Herd

will be discussed in the

(primarily beef cow -calf, some

following steps):

dairy)

Breeding (dairy and beef cow -

Milk

calf only)

only)

o Calving (only dairy and beef

bull

management

manufacturing

(dairy

Take care of bottle c alves,

cows are allowed to have calves)

which are only used for dairy

(dairy and beef cow-calf only).

production, as well as orphaned

Weaning (n.) (primarily

beef

calves (beef cow-calf).

cow-calf; dairy as well if calves

Management

are raised on-farm)

health,

the

including

establishment 99

of

of

herd's the

vaccination

and deworming schedules (all

3. Stay

sectors)

current

feeding

Management

of

pastures,

on

and/or

the

pasture

businesses' operations. If

feeding, and feed supplies (all

there is no food available or

sectors)

grass for the cattle to graze

Handling

and

disposal

of

on, it is impossible to raise

deadstock (all sectors)

cattle. Before you invest in

The cultivation of plants and/or

livestock

forage (all sectors)

pasture, check to see that

The management of human

you have a sufficient supply

resources (primarily dairy and

of feed. Although grass,

feedlot, with some beef cow -

hay, silage, and grain are all

calf operations, particularly on

things

cattle ranches)

typically only the first two

Capital and assets in terms of

or three of these are needed

upkeep,

to raise a cattle herd.

repair,

and

new

or

that

adequate

cattle

eat,

construction, including things

The breed of cattle you are

like

raising, y our goals for the

fences,

machines,

and

buildings (all sectors). Aims

and

improvements

operation, and the region in

priorities

for

which you are located will

in

the

determine the kind of feed that

foreseeable future (all sectors)

you give to your animals. For

The passing on of livestock

instance, growing a cow -calf

and/or farms, as well as their

herd or backgrounder/stocker

dispersion (all sectors)

calves on grass during the summer 100

is

a

relatively

straightforward

process.

In

grazing management as

addition to grain and silage,

much as possible.

feeding dairy cattle necessitates the addition of moist hay in the form of haylage. This is in contrast method

to of

the

traditional

fattening

cattle,

which involves feeding only

4. Ensure

grain and silage. •

•

that

a

robust

program for herd health is

If the dairy is grass -fed

kept in place.

and organic, some dairy

especially true in the event

cattle may be allowed to

that it is necessary. It is

graze for part of the

especially important to have

year or the entire year.

a herd health program if

This, of course, depends

you

on whether or not the

purchasing new cattle and

dairy is grass-fed.

adding

Ensure

that

appropriate

the

are

going

them

This is

to

to

be

your

existing herd because the

stocking

new cattle may be disease

rate or stocking density

carriers that could cause

is maintained on t he

damage to your existing

pasture

herd. It is of the utmost

prevent

in

order

to

overgrazing.

importance, in particular, if

The best way to take

you are cultivating animals

care of pastures is to use

in an area where sickness

intensive

and illness are common,

or

rotating 101

such as in a barn or on a dirt

an effective and strict

lot, or if you are feeding

culling program are all

them problematic feed, such

ways to keep diseases

as grain. Both of these

from spreading. •

scenarios present a high risk

In

the

event

of

an

for disease transmission.

emergency,

•

A herd health program

required to be familiar

not only considers what

with certain items and

products are available to

possess them yourself.

vaccinate,

Included

deworm/delice, or treat

emergency kit should be

animals,

calving

but

it

also

you

in

are

an

chains,

considers what can be

epinephrine,

done to prevent illnesses

dexamethazone, a trocar

and

This

and canola, latex gloves,

includes products that

a calf puller, mineral oil,

can be used to treat

rope

animals,

cotton or poly rope), an

diseases.

as

well

as

(lariat

and/or

dewormers and delices.

esophageal tube with a

Vaccinations,

frick

quarantine periods, not

length

doing

needles and syringes,

certain

things

tube,

gloves,

with cattle at certain

Dettol

times, making sure there

disinfectant),

is

alcohol, and

enough

feed

and

minerals, and keeping 102

shoulder -

(or

a

extra

similar 70%

•

At some point, you may

suffering

find that you have no

misery..

out

of

its

choice but to face the unsettling

truth

that

some animals cannot be saved, and you may be required to put an end to 5.

their lives on your own.

Acquire

the

The vast majority of

skills

farmers euthanize their

deadstock. When caring for

animals with firearms

cattle, it is inevitable that at

by placing a bullet in

some point you will have to

the

the

deal with the passing of one

forehead,

of your animals (or several).

middle

animal's

of

to

necessary

deal

with

directly above the eyes.

You will be able to figure

This method is known

out how to dispose of a

as

"center-of-the-

dead animal's carcass in the

method.

right manner if you research

the

head" contrast

to

In

the rules for disposing of

the

livestock in your area.

alternative of allowing the animal to die a slow and agonizing death on its own, this method is the most humane as well

6. Educate yourself on the

as the quickest way to

best times, places, and

put an animal that is

methods 103

for

marketing

and selling your animals.

being sent to the kill pen

Cattle can be bought and

or sold for slaughter.

sold in a variety of settings,

Unless

the most common of which

exceptionally high and

are salebarns and auction

ranchers are willing to

marts;

sell more than their fair

private

treaties;

prices

direct sales; purebred sales;

share

and dispersal sales.

regardless of whe ther or

•

The vast majority of

not they have problems,

cattle

replacement

are

purchased

of

are

cattle

stock

is

difficult

to

either through auctions

typically

or

come by in this region.

sale

barns.

Cull

animals, weaned calves,

The only exception to

and fats make up the

this rule is when there is

bulk of the inventory

a shortage of cattle. You

here (cattle ready for

can sell cattle at a live

slaughter).

Weaned

internet auction or by

calves

typically

taking them in a trailer

are

moved from the ranch

to the nearest auction

on which they were

mart.

born to a feedlot or

options are available to

facility

prepares

you. This method is

them for sla ughter. In

used to sell dairy cattle

most cases, "problem

as well as beef cattle.

cattle" are brought here

•

that

to be dropped off before

The

Both

of

manner

these

in

which you negotiate 104

the sale or purchase

treaty sales can also

of cattle in a private

happen

treaty is determined

word-of-mouth

by the nature of your

marketing instead of

relationship with the

public

other party to the

newspapers or on

transaction. You can

the Internet.

publicize

the

•

fact

through

ads

in

Direct sales would

that you are selling

operate in a manner

cattle by advertising

very similar to that

the

of

sale

in

the

private

treaty,

regional newspaper,

with

in a magazine, or on

difference being that

a classifieds website

you would primarily

like

sell

Craigslist

or

the

beef

key

to

a

Kijiji. People who

consumer who was

read

interested

your

in

advertisement might

purchasing

be interested in the

opposed to selling

cattle you are selling

live

and want to get in

sales can take place

touch with you for

as a result of word -

more information or

of-mouth marketing,

simply because they

an

are curious about the

posted on a website

animals.

touting the quality

Private 105

cattle.

it,

as

Direct

advertisement

of

the

seller's

majority of yearling

products as "nothing

bulls

but the greatest," or

and it can take place

a

either

brief

article

published

in

a

farm

newspaper. It

through

can

or

through

advertisements that

also take place while

encourage

you are attempting

treaty sales. •

to sell your product at

a

stall

at

heifers,

auctions held on the

neighborhood

•

and

a

private -

Dispersal sales let you sell your whole

farmer's market.

herd or just a part of

The

only

people

it

who

can

make

to

meat

people

like

packers

or

purebred sales are

other farmers who

those

are interested. You

who

purebred

own

seedstock

can also sell just a

or cow -calf herds

portion of your herd

and

to

sell

live

these

parties.

purebred cattle to

Instead

other

stocker cattle that

producers,

of

selling

whether or not those

would

other producers are

several

purebred. This is the

dispersal sales are

method that is used

held solely for the

to

purpose of selling as

sell

the

vast 106

last

for

mont hs,

much of your cow-

traditional manner (graze in

calf herd as possible.

the summer, confine and feed in the winter) or in a more natural and low -cost manner

(graze

in

the

summer, confine and f eed in the winter) (graze all year round, grass -only, no grain

7. Oversee the management

or silage to feed). No matter

of other businesses, such

what you decide, you have

as crop production, hay production,

and

to make sure that the way

silage

you run these businesses

production. This is one of

provides you with high -

the most important aspects

quality

of your operation, and it is

food

for

your

livestock.

especially important if you

•

are a producer who chooses

The

planting

and

harvesting of crops

to produce your own feed

must be done at the

rather than buy it from a

appropriate times.

third party. You might run a •

company that specializes in

The harvesting of silage

all three of these things, just

must

take

place at the precise

one of them, or both of the

moment

other options. That depends

designated,

on the breed of cattle you

that

is

neither

too early nor too

raise and whether you want

late.

to raise them in a more 107

•

The proper handling

continue

operating

of hay is necessary

smoothly

and

to prevent it from

efficiently; however,

rotting

the

they do need to be

of

it

greased, oiled, and

fire.

It

maintained,

and

possibility catching

should be cut at the

have

right

parts repaired.

time

and

any

and broken

allowed to dry out before being raked and baled. Because square

bales

are

more

prone

to

deterioration

•

than

8. Be sure to keep detailed

round bales, it is

records of all of your

imperative that they

activities. Everything is fair

be kept in storage

game in this section, from

until

straightforward

they

are

paper

required.

records to comprehensive

It is imperative that

electronic worksheets. Be

all of a company's

consistent in keeping all

machinery be kept

records up to date as time

in proper working

progresses, regardless of the

order. They do not

type

need to be brand-

maintain. This applies to

new

in

order

to 108

of

records

you

any and all records you

breeding season,

keep.

etc.

•

The

following

raising

o Calvinist

cattle-

records

documents

are

included, but are not

(which

limited to:

had which calf,

o Medical records (which

female

calving difficulties,

cattle

were sick; illness

when which cow

ID,

calved, calf sex,

treatment,

and so on).

vaccinations,

o Financial

deworming, etc.)

documents o Records

of

mating,

which

(expenses, loans, rent, utility bills, income, etc.)

include information like which

cow

or

heifer was bred to which bull,

9. Keep a close eye on your

when they were bred, females

bank

which

cash

flow, balance sheets, and

were

income statements so that

found to be open after

statements,

you are aware of your

the

current financial situation 109

at

all

times. You

can

employment. Because cattle

determine whether you are

raising is now and has

making money or losing

always been more of a way

money using this method,

of life than a means of

which is effective. If you

making money, one needs

are in the process of starting

to have a stronger desire to

a cattle business, the fact

keep cattle than they do a

that you are losing money

pressing

should

requirement to do so. You

not

alarm

you.

financial

However, you should be

will

concerned if you are still

challenging and difficult at

losing money after ten years

times, and you will question

have passed. If you are able

why you got involved in the

to keep making the same

first place with raising these

amount of money or even

animals,

make a small profit, you

continue to enjoy it and

should be proud of yourself.

want to do it..

10. Enjoy it. However, if your primary

motivation

is

financial gain, you should look

elsewhere

for 110

find

that

but

it

you

is

will

Growing food in the climate

Project 16: How to Cultivate Your Own Food Garden

of your immediate area is the first method

People have always found a way to provide for themselves, whether

it

be

through

subsistence

farming,

subsistence fishing, subsistence hunting, gathering.

or

subsistence

These

1. During the warm summer

days,

months,

cultivate

the

shopping for groceries at the

majority of your edible

supermarket is a simple and

plants, focusing on leafy

convenient experience. On the

greens

other hand, growing one's own

Planting your vegetables in

food can be a satisfying and

May or June is a good idea

cost-efficient way to eat. If you

if

want to grow your own food,

temperature is expected to

you will first need to learn

be higher than 24 degrees

about the climate where you

Celsius

live. Then you will need to lay

Fahrenheit). Make sure they

out rows for your crops, and

are planted only after there

then you will need to harvest

is no longer a risk of frost

them when they are ready.

hitting them. •

the

and

vegetabl es.

average

(75

summer

degrees

Lettuce, cabbage, kale, and tomatoes are all wonderful options for

111

planting

during

the

fruit trees do no t

start

summer months.

producing fruit until they

A word of advice: temperate

are two to three years old at

rainforests are the perfect place

the earliest.

for legumes, which are a great

•

source of protein, to grow.

Vines that produce fruit, like

grapes,

can

be

planted anywhere that

2. Fruit trees are typically

they can find support

planted at the beginning

from a trellis..

of spring in regions with mild climates. On trees planted

area

3. Cultivate winter grains in

measuring 12,000 square

an environment that is

feet,

to

both cold and da mp. If

cultivate the vast majority

you live in an area where

of fruit, including apples,

the temperature regularly

oranges, lemons, and limes

falls below freezing and

(1,100

meters).

there is a significant amount

When you first plant a fruit

of precipitation, you should

tree, do so in a container for

plant grains such as rye.

the first year so that you can

Rye is able to withstand the

evaluate the quality of the

subfreezing

soil and the amount of

and heavy precipitation that

water it needs. After the

are

first year, transplant the tree

experienced in many parts

into the ground in early

of the world. Plant your rye

it

in

is

an

possible

square

spring. The vast majority of 112

temperatures

forecasted

to

be

early in the fall, before the

fullest potential in the

ground has frozen solid.

climate

•

Asia.

The yield that winter grains

produce

of

Southeast

is

frequently higher than the yield that summer grains produce. 5. Give your root vegetables

4. Cultivate summer grains in

a

climate

temperate Warm

that

and

plenty of time to mature

is

in the fall.

warm.

temperatures

During the

cooler months, underground

are

ideal for the growth of

crops like potatoes, beets,

summer cereals such as

and radishes typically have

corn. Planting maize in May

the best chance of growing.

or June will give it the best

Planting root vegetables in

chance of surviving and

July or August will ensure

flourishing

the

that you will have a harv est

warmest months of the year

in the autumn. Because they

in your region. People in the

are able to thrive in chilly

Midwest

conditions,

during

of

the

United

you

can

States know that corn grows

cultivate them even if there

well there.

is a chance of frost in the

•

near future.

Rice can only be grown successfully in warm,

Planting the Various Crops

humid

Method 2

climates.

Rice

can be grown to its 113

•

A test probe or test strips are available at most garden centers.

• 1. Make certain that the pH

Dolomite is available at most garden centers.

of your soil is between 5.5 and 7.You can measure the acidity or alkalinity of your soil by using a test probe or paper strips to determine the soil's pH. This will give you

2. To aerate the soil, you can

an indication of the soil's

either use a plow or a

acidity or alkalinity. The pH

tiller.

of the majority of foods

branches,

type of crushed mineral that

plant

accumulations that are too

can be used to increase the

thick, and any other debris.

level of basicity in soil with

To aerate the soil and turn it

a pH that is lower than 5.5.

over, the top layer should be

If the pH level is higher

turned over with a plow or a

than 7.0, you can bring it adding

start

any large stones, roots and

5.5 and 7.0. Dolomite is a

by

you

tilling, you should get rid of

falls somewhere between

down

Before

rototiller. In this way, the

pine

soil's nutrients will be easier

needles or peat moss.

to access, and the top layer of the soil will have the opportunity to renew itself. 114

•

Plant enough grains and

space has been covered with

vegetables to feed a

rows.

family of four on a plot

•

Rototillers

and

of land measuring 1,100

attachments

square

along with them can be

feet

(1,200

square meters).

that

the go

rented at a var iety of

Tip: If you only have a small

different

plot of land, you can turn the

stores.

hardware

soil by hand using a pick, shovel, and hoe instead. 3. Use a hoe or a plow to create

rows

in

your

garden. Draw a boundary 4. Dig the furrows to the

around the area you intend to plant. Using a hoe or a

appropriate

depth,

plow, make a bed that is

then

your

seeds

slightly raised above the

there.

is

some

surrounding loose soil and

leeway in the planting depth

run it the length of the

depending on the plants that

allotment. Make a slit-like

are selected. If you want to

cut in the ground with the

know how deep you should

help of your rototiller and

plant your see ds, look on

an attachment for making

the back of the seed packet.

furrows.

doing

Your fingertips should be

this until all of the available

used to create a small hole,

Continue

plant There

and

and then two or three seeds 115

should be placed in each

sun-dried as a result of this

hole.

action. Apply some pressure

•

The depth at which you

with the palm of your hand

plant legumes, melons,

to the seeds that have just

squash, and cucumbers

been planted. Make sure

can

that they are adequately

range

from

34

inches (1.9 cm) to 1

covered so that animals

inch (2.5 cm), whereas

won't be able to consume

the depth at which you

them. Carry on working in

plant corn and potatoes

this manner until you have

can

reached

range

from

2.5

inches (8.9 cm). Seeds

can

Method

also

outside

of

three:

Harvesting

And The Management Of The

be

Crops

started indoors and then moved

number

planting rows you desire.

inches (6.4 cm) to 3.5

•

the

once

they have germinated.

1. You are required to give your garden at least an inch of water each d ay

5. After the seeds have been

during the summer.

covered with soil, lightly

If

your crops do not have

pack the soil down. The

access

seed bed will not become 116

to

an

adequate

amount

of

water

for

you have chosen to cultivate

rehydration, they will be

this crop in rows, you will

killed by the sun's drying

have the ability to move

rays. During the months of

freely among the rows as

May

you

use

through a

September,

garden

During

the

or

growing season, you should

sprinkler system to provide

pull by hand any weeds that

your

appear. When you pull the

plants

hose

work.

with

an

adequate amount of water

weed, it is important to

each day. If it's going to be

make sure that you get all of

at least 32 degrees Celsius

the roots out so that it does

(90

degrees

Fahrenheit),

not come back.

you

should

water

•

your

When the soil is loose

plants twice a day.

or damp, it is much

•

Winter crops such as rye

simpler to pull weeds

do not need irrigation

out of the ground. •

unless the season is

When pulling weeds, it

unusually dry, but this is

is

not always the case.

careful not to damage

important

to

be

the crop's roots.

2. If your garden is starting 3.

to become overgrown, you

To prevent animals from entering your property,

should weed it. Because 117

install

fences

and

leaves with a fine mist

use

natural sprays. If you find

once a day.

that some of the leaves on a plant have been eaten, this could be an indication that insects

or

rodents

are

present. To prevent rabbits

4. When the tim e is right,

and rodents from entering

you should harvest your

your yard, install a fence

crops.

made of chicken wire. If

garden vegetables can be

you want to keep insects

picked as they mature and

away, you can either get rid

will continue to produce

of them as soon as you see

food even after the growing

them

season has ended if they are

or

use

a

natural

Many

common

repellent like peppermint

given

oil.

Grain, on the other hand, is

•

the

proper

care.

To make a peppermint

typically harvested after it

spray, mix together one

has reached its full maturity

gallon (3,800 mL) of

and has been allowed to dry

water and two drops of

on the plant before being

peppermint essential oil

collected. When harvesting

in

or chopping your plants, it

a

dropper

bottle.

Most common pests can

is

be

gardening tools that are

kept

away

from

plants by spraying the

important

to

both clean and sharp.

118

use

vegetables include Put your root crops in a spot that is dry and chilly, on a bed made of straw. 5. If you have more food than you ca n use, you should

consider

preserving it. If you have grown your own grains, you should put them away in barns where they will be protected from moisture and vermin such as insects and rodents. The most efficient approach to avoiding the waste of food is t o use a combination of storage and preservation methods. It's possible to preserve food by dehydrating it, putting it in jars, putting it in the freezer, or even storing it in a bed. •

Bedding is used to store root

vegetables

like

potatoes, rutabagas, and beets.

Other

root 119

1. Go to a lake, river, or

Project 17: How to Fish for Pros

pond in your area that has a lot of fish.

Whether

you’re

looking

to

Choose a

place where you won't mind

spend time with friends and

being for a few hours.

family or catch dinner, fishing

Public lakes, rivers, and

is a great way to enjoy the

ponds are home to many

outdoors. You can catch a wide

different kinds of fish, so

variety of colorful fish in the

you

water. Plan your trip well

can

always

find

something good to catch. In

before you go fishing. Get your

the spring and fall, when the

fishing gear together and go to

fish are getting ready for

a good spot when the fish are

winter, they swim close to

most active. Then, cast your

the shore. In the summer,

line and reel it in to ca tch your

they are usually in deeper

trophy. Then, if you want, you

water, so take a boat from

can catch the fish and take it

the shore out to where they

home with you, or you can let it

are.

go back into the water.

Ponds or levees outside of town

Part 1: Choosing a Fishing

are good places to find peace

Location

and quiet. Make sure you don't cross private property or fish where it's not allowed. Also, don't step on any plants near the shore.

120

If you live near the ocean, you

many

newspapers.

You

should consider going ocean

could also ask around at

fishing. If you get a separate

places like fishing shops,

license, rods, and bait for the

marinas, and stores that sell

fish you want to catch in the

camping gear. There are so

ocean, it's the same as fishing in

many kinds of fish that it

fresh water.

can be hard to know where to start. Pick one type of

Tip: Many pub lic parks have

fish to learn about. Some

ponds with fish that anyone can

types of fish that are easy

fish in. Check with your local

for beginners to catch are

Fish and Wildlife Department

bass,

to find out when the fish will be

crappies,

sunfish,

bluegills, and catfish.

stocked. Even though these

•

sports are good for beginners, a

For example, catfish are found all over the U.S.

lot of people do them.

Look for places with deep water around large creeks and rivers. Go there in the spring and fall to catch a fish that you can fry and eat for dinner.

2. Learn about the types of fish that are commonly caught in the fishing spots near you. Local fishing spots and what fish are biting there are listed in 121

•

3. Search for a trophy fish or a fish to eat. You'll have to

swamps in the southern

go out on the ocean if you

U.S. Some common fish to

want to catch a blue marlin.

try to catch out there are

Spend some time learning

flounder and perch. •

about the kind of fish you

Rainbow trout are abundant

want to catch, where they

in the northwest of the

live, and what kind of bait

United States. You can eat

you need to catch them.

them or take pictures of

Fish

them to show your friends.

populations

are

different in different places

There are also a lot of

and

crappie, walleye, and bass,

in

freshwater

and

saltwater. Sometimes you

all of which are easy to

have to plan a trip to get

catch. •

what you want, but it's a

•

Gar and bowfin live in

If you don't know what kind

chance to see something

of fish live in a body of

new!

water, throw some leftover

For example, you can find

food in and wait. Look to

many different types of

see what fish swim to the

freshwater fish in the Great

top. When you first start

Lakes area of the United

fishing, it's hard

States. People often catch

which

walleyes

northern

because you don't know

pikes. Set your line out

how different fish act. But if

from the shore.

you go fishing often, you'll

and

fish

are

to tell which

learn how different fish act. 122

•

look for fish in shallow water.

4. To catch more fish, go out at dawn and dusk. These 5. Ask

are the best times to catch a

an

health

lot of fish because that's

department

safety

when they come out to eat.

environmental

advice.

for Water

pollution makes it so that

Setting your alarm for 4:30

fish aren't always safe to

in the morning is not the

eat. Several groups put out

most fun part of a trip, but it's worth it when the fish start biting. Use the early

warnings

online.

with

state's

the

Check health

department, department of

morning hours, especially in

natural

the summer, to get to your

resources,

or

something similar. If you

favorite fishing spots before

fish in a park, you could

other people.

also call to talk to a park •

If the idea of getting up

ranger. If you don't plan to

before dawn makes you

eat the fish you catch, you

groan, make plans for the

don't have to worry as much

evening. Get out on the

about this.

water at nightfall. Spring

•

and fall are good times to

Pollution is generally higher in

123

larger

fish

that

eat

•

smaller fish. Mercury levels

of by the Department of

are usually higher in big

Fish and Wildlife or the

fish

Department

like

tuna

than

in

of

Natural

smaller fish that e at insects.

Resources. All you have to

Also, it depends on how

do to get a license is type in

good the water is where you

your personal information

are fishing.

and pay a small fee. The

Keep in mind any "catch

license is then sent to your

and release" rules that your

email that day, so you can

city or town may have.

print it out and take it with

Some places have rules

you on your trip. •

about which fish you can keep or release.

You can also pay for your license over the phone or in person. If you do n't want to

Part 2: How to Select Fishing

wait 2 –4 weeks for it to

Equipment

come in the mail, have them email it to you or print it out at the office. •

You need a license for every state or province you plan to visit. A driver's

1. Get a fishing license from

license from one area won't

your state's government

work in another.

office. Visit the website of •

your government to apply. In

the

U.S.,

Most places have different licenses that last anywhere

most

from one day to ten years.

applications are taken care 124

•

There are also licenses for

Flexible

rods

aren't

as

kids, but sometimes kids

strong as stiff ones, but they

under 16 don't need one to

break less often. Your basic

fish.

rod won't help you catch big game fish, but it will help you catch a wide range of common fish. •

If you don't know what to buy, ask a store worker for

2. Purchase

a

help.

medium -

strength spinning fishing

Tip: As a general rule, choose a

rod and reel. When you

rod that is about as tall as you

first look at the fishing rods

are. Hold it up to your casting

in a sporting goods store,

arm to see if its weight feels

you might be amazed, but

right.

you don't have to spend a lot of money. Beginners should

use

a

medium -

strength rod that is 7 feet long (2.1 m) and has a good balance

of

range

and

3. Choose a monofilament

flexibility. Choose one with

fishing line that is the

a spinning reel instead of a

right length for your rod.

baitcaster reel because it is

Match the line to the type of

easier to set up and cast.

fishing pole you have. If you're 125

fishing

in

fresh

water, use a 6 to 12 lb (2.7

bait they are after. A small

to 5.4 kg) line. If you're

fish won't go after a big

fishing in salt water, use a

hook that looks scary. So, to

10 to 12 lb (4.5 to 5.4 kg)

catch a lot of fish, start with

line. The test, which i s the

a 6 to 10 hook. Change your

weight, shows how strong

hook to a size between 2

the line is. Only fish that

and 3/0 so you can use

weigh less than the line can

bigger bait for bigger fish. •

be caught. •

The

way

hooks

are

Use the lightest fishing gear

numbered is a little strange,

possible to avoid becoming

but it's not too hard to

overly tired while having

understand. A 16 is the

fun. If you want to catch a

smallest hook, and a 1 is the

certain kind of fish, find out

middle size. From size 1/0

how much they

to

usually

weigh so you know what

size

6/0,

hooks

get

bigger. •

line weight to bring.

If you don't know what size hook to get, talk to someone at your local tackle shop about how the sizes work. If you fish a lot, have hooks of different sizes so you can

4. Use a small hook to catch

adapt to different situations.

a variety of fish. Fish will only go after hooks that are about the same size as the 126

your own bait. For example, catch some minnows to attract pike,

bass,

and

walleye, which eat 5. Choose a lure, such as

smaller fish.

minnows, shrimp, worms,

•

or crickets. If you don't like

If you want to catch a specific type of

moving things, stick with

fish, learn what bait

something made of plastic.

it

Lures look like real food

prefers.

For

example, many fish

and can trick fish into

that

eating them. To stay alive,

live

in

salt

water, like shrimp,

live bait needs to be kept in

Other fish eat things

water in an insulated cooler.

like

Most fish eat insects and

salmon

eggs,

bacon, and cheese,

other aquatic life, so bait

among other things.

shops have a lot to choose from if you want to fish in a more natural way. •

Try to get a variety of baits so you can change your setup based on where the

6. Choose a cooler or cage

fish are moving. •

with insulation to keep the

If you want to catch

fish you catch. If you want

something without a rod,

try

to keep what you catch, you

catching 127

will need a lot of ice to keep

sense of adventure and don't be

it from going bad. A plastic

afraid to make mistakes!

bucket is the best tool for

Part 3: Using a Rod to Catch

this job. Mix the dead fish

Fish

with some ice from the cooler. Keep the fish well chilled until you can get home and put them in the freezer. •

A fish cage is a good way to keep fish alive and in the water.

•

1. Attach the hook to the

Many cages can also be used to

line. Stick with a simple

catch small fish like minnows.

clinch knot when you first

When you fish, you don't have

start out. Thread the line

to kill anything. Use the catch -

through

and-release method to put fish

bring it back toward the reel

back in the water. Unless you

and wrap it around itself 4

want to bring live bait, you

to 6 times. Pull the end tight

won't need an ice chest.

and put it back through the

Expert Tip: Always bring rain

loop. Now that you have a

gear with you on a fishing trip,

simple knot, use scissors to

just

cut off any extra line at the

in

case

the

weather

the

hook,

then

end of the tail.

changes. Bring extra fishing

•

line, flies, and a spare rod, too.

Tying the right knot is half the fun of fly

But most importantly, bring a

fishing. 128

Fly

fishermen use a lot

water, where fish are

of different knots.

likely to be. If you

The clinch knot is a

want a larger bobber

good place to start.

to stay in the water but still be seen, add sinkers to it. Tip:

When

you

first

start

fishing, use a bigger bobber that 2. Tie

Add

weights

and

is easy to see from the shore.

bobbers above the hook to

Look for the bobber to move

help you find fish. Use a

and go under the water. That

clinch knot to tie these

means it's time to bring in the

things together about 12

line and catch the big one!

inches (30 cm) above your hook. Use a weight called a "sinker" to get your bait to the

fish

in

fast-moving

water like a river or stream. 3. Pierce the bait with the

A bobber is a small ball that

point of your hook.

helps you see when a fish

the bait as many times as

bites the hook when the

you can to keep it in place.

water is still. •

Don't let those fish get away

Sinkers, which are

with the bait you worked

metal weights, pull your deeper

Hook

fishing into

hard to catch. Hold the hook

line

firmly in one hand and then

the 129

push it straight through the

Keep an eye out for signs of

bait. Try to pierce it twice

fish, like bubbles, splashes, or

or three times.

even flocks of birds that are

•

Putting

a

looking for food.

hook

through a worm is

•

kind of gross, but if

there is food. Look for

the worm falls off,

places with reeds, logs,

you can't catch a

and

fish. For example,

worm's

ground

body

do

off

places to hide when they

the

feel like they are being

same thing at the

chased.

other end. Fish where

drops

also give fish a lot of

way from its head, then

especially

quickly. These places

about a third of the

and

rocks,

near places where the

put the hook through the

Fish swim to where

•

If you see water moving

there is deep

in currents, look for

water or water that is moving.

places where fast and

Most big fish spend their days

slow

in deeper water and come to

Most of the time, the

shallow areas to eat at night.

fish

They don't swim around in

these places to catch

these shallow areas very often.

food that is moving with

They also don't like to swim

the currents.

against strong currents, so find the end of one and stay there. 130

currents

hang

out

meet.

under

the line goes out, and when you let go, it stops.

4. To cast, pull your line back and throw the hook forward. Hold the rod near the reel with your stronger

5. Be patient and wait until a

hand. Adjust the line with

fish bites. Fishing is a game

the reel, leaving about 6

of waiting, so be ready to sit

inches (15 cm) hanging off

quietly

the end of the ro d. Then,

bites

use your thumb and index

Some

little to make the fish think the bait is alive. If sitting

is standing up straight, then

back and waiting doesn't

snap it forward again. [

work, try moving the line a

How you let go of

little bit.

the line depends on

•

the type of reel you

Loud

sounds

and

thrashing can scare

have, but it's pretty

fish. You can bring

simple if you have a closed

bait.

line and move the rod a

To throw it, pull

your arm back until the rod

•

your

something

fishermen slowly pull in the

finger to pinch the line to the rod.

until

a radio and talk to

push-button

people, but keep the

spinner reel. When

volume

you push the button,

down,

especially if other 131

people are fishing at

•

the same time.

the rod to set the hook. Set

Pay close attention

your hook to catch the fish

to

when you feel a big pull on

your line and When

your line. Just pull the rod

something bites, you

back up like you did when

can tell because the

you cast the line to get it to

line jerks forward.

point up. When you hook a

Wait until the line is

fish, you can expect it to

no

fight back. If you don't feel

bobber.

•

6. When the fish bites, raise

longer

slack

before pulling the

anything pulling on the line

fish in.

anymore, the fish probably

You may end up in

got away with the bait and

areas where the fish

swam away. •

aren't biting. If it's

Sometimes it's hard

been 15 minutes and

to tell if you have a

you

bite. With time and

eaten,

still try

haven't

practice,

going

can

tell

the

somewhere else. It

learn

can take a little bit

difference

of time to find a

water currents and

good spot.

fish bait.

132

to

you

between

bumping

the

from

happening,

keep the line tight and the tip of the rod above your head. 7. Bring

the

pumping

fish the

in

rod

by and

reeling at the same time. Raising the rod back up into the air at an angle of about

8. When you can reach the

45 degrees will pull the fish

fish, catch it in a net. Use

toward you. This gives the

your water net to catch the

line some tension, so lower

tired fish once it is close to

the rod and keep spinning

where you are standing.

the reel. Pull in the line to

You could have a friend use

get rid of any slack, then

a fishing net t o catch it.

raise the rod again to bring

With

the fish closer. Do this

carefully reach down and

again and again to get that

get the fish yourself without

catch back to shore.

losing it.

•

Loose

lines

kill

more

fish

than

•

practice,

you

can

Be careful of fish spines

and

the

anything else. If the

hook's

sharp

tip.

line is too loose, the

Hold the fish by the

fish has a chance to

back of its head as

get away from the

you pull it out of the

hook. To keep this

net. 133

Part 4: Keeping a Fish or

head, and the other

Letting It Go?

hand under the fish before its tail.

1. Hold the fish's body so it doesn't move while

2. Use needle-nose pliers

you work with it. Be

to pull the hook out of

careful, fish are stronger

the fish. This part may

than they look. Hold the

seem hard at first, but as

fish's body firmly, right

long as you have a good

behind its head. Watch

grip on the fish, it's not

out for both the flailing

too hard. Grab the hook

tail and the fins, which

coming out of the fish's

can cut you if you're not

mouth with the pliers.

careful. To keep the fish

Pull it back toward the

from getting hurt, hold

fish to get it off the

it horizontally and keep

hook. Then, slide it back

it in or near the water.

out of the fish's mouth,

•

If you catch a large

turning it as needed so

fish, use both hands

you don't poke the fish.

to hold it. Put one

[26]

hand

•

around

the

fish's body near its

The pliers could be used to break the

134

•

hook's barb, which

more

fishermen

would make it easier

putting back what they

to take off. Some

catch. Since fish can't

seasoned fishermen

breathe out of the water,

do this even before

keep your catches in the

they cast.

water

Be very patient if

possible.

the hook gets stuck.

put the fish back in if

You could use your

you have to take it out.

fingers or pliers to

Keep the fish wet and

reach into the fish's

be gentle with it so it

mouth. Keep the fish

doesn't get stressed out.

in the water, crush

•

as

much

are

as

Immediately

One problem with

the barb if you need

taking a fish out of

to, and twist and

its

pull

environment is that

the

hook

natural

without wiggling it

it gets stressed. The

out.

fight with your hook may have already worn the fish out. Taking it out of the water and touching it a lot makes it

3. If you don't want to

more likely to die

keep the fish, let it go.

even after you put it

To

back.

protect

ecosystem,

more

the and 135

will

inspect

your

catch. They could also punish you if they

saw

4. Measure the fish to

catches

find out if you can

photos

or

keep it by law. Most

media

posts

places

made.

to

fish

are •

protected by state or

If

you

illegal

in

any social you

break

federal laws that are

fishing

meant to protect the

might have to pay a

environment. Most of

big fine or even go

the time, these rules tell

to jail. If you catch a

you how many fish you

fish that is too small

can take home and what

or not in season, you

size they h ave to be.

could get a $500

Grab the fish firmly by

fine and go to jail

its back, just behind its

for 6 months. •

head. With your other

Bring

rule,

a

a

you

fish

hand, carefully stretch a

identification guide

measuring

and a copy of the

tape

from

head to tail across the

rules

fish.

favorite fishing spot.

•

You may be stopped

Most of the time,

by a park warden or

these

a police officer who

written 136

to

rules on

your

are park

websites or on signs

the water. It keeps

near fishing spots.

the fish alive and safe while you keep fishing. Then, when you're ready to go home, you can fillet all the fish at once.

5. Use a knife to gut the Tip: Kill and fillet your catches

fish if you want to tak e

as soon as you pull them out of

it with you. You have

the water for the best results.

to kill and cut up your

That keeps the meat from going

catch, which is not a

bad. Also, keep your fish cool

pleasant task. If you

in a cooler as you drive home.

have a sharp knife or spear, stick it through the fish's brain right behind its eyes. It kills the fish right away, so it doesn't have to suffer.

6. Another way to kill a

Then, clean the fi sh by

fish is to cut off i ts

cutting out the gills,

gills. Hit the fish over

scales, and guts. Finally,

the head with a club

put the fish on ice. •

once to stun it before

You can also keep

you cut it. Then, cut off

live fish in a mesh

all of the gills on one

cage that is put in

side with your knife. It 137

kills the fish by making

Project 18: How to Plant a Garden: A Comprehensive Guide

it bleed out. Put the fish in water until it dies, like in a mesh cage or a bucket full of water. •

Bleeding

is

So you've chosen to cultivate a

still

garden? It's much simpler than

considered humane

you may believe! The first step

because it doesn't

is determining what you want

take long and a good

to grow, followed by providing

hit with a club is

the proper conditions for your

enough to put the

plants, such as soil, sunlight,

fish to sleep. It's a

and water. In this article, we

great way to get rid

will walk you through each step

of the acids that

of gardening so that you can

make meat taste bad.

successfully plant a garden.

Many people who fish for a living do it

1. Choose a locati on with

to catch big fish like

well-drained, sunny soil.

salmon and tuna. When you're done, fillet the fish and put it away as usual.

Choose

a

location

that

receives roughly eight hours of direct sunlight. Sun-loving 138

plants like tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers, in particular, require a great deal of sunlight for healthy growth. Place your garden on th e south-facing side of your yard, where it will

If you are a novice, begin with

receive

a

the

most

sunlight.

small

garden.

Consider

Select a location where there

planting a 10 ft x 10 ft (3 m x 3

are no puddles after heavy rain.

m) plot. In a space of this size,

•

you may cultivate up to five

If the soil in your garden

different types of vegetables, at

does not drain well, water

a maximum of five plants per

will pool around the plant's

type. In addi tion, working in a

roots, causing root rot. •

small garden will allow you to

To make gardening easier,

gain experience with designing,

choose a location that is

planting,

level and free of trees and

to work around.

•

Don't give up if you lack

Some vegetables, such as

space

radishes, turnips, and beets,

garden! If you have patio

can thrive with six hours of

space, you could plant herbs

sunlight,

in containers or constr uct

but

the

more

sunlight, the better! 2.

and

maintaining the area.

bushes that you would have

•

watering,

for

an

in -ground

raised beds for vegetables.

Select a loc ation for your

•

garden.

If you have some gardening experience and desire a larger garden, you should

139

•

aim for a space between

If you are still uncertain

300 and 500 square feet (28

about

to 46 m2).

consider the produce you

3. Choose

vegetables

that

what

to

grow,

purchase each week. Try

thrive in your region.

them out if you consume a lot of lettuce or zucchini. •

Use companion planting to deter pests; grow fragrant marigolds throughout your garden,

Choose vegetables and herbs

cabbages

that you also enjoy eating.

especially or

near

melons,

to

deter beetles.

When purchasing seeds or plant

4.

Plan your garden layout.

starts, read the labels and select varieties that will thrive in your region. Thus, you can ensure that the plants can thrive in your region's climate. If you are new to gardening, choose plants

Determine which vegetables

like lettuce, carrots, cucumbers,

will be planted in each row as

and tomatoes that are simple to

you draw them out on a

cultivate. Some plants, such as

diagram. This allows you to

spinach and radishes, grow

keep track of what

rapidly, making them excellent

growing and to control the

options for containers.

distance between rows; consult the

plant

recommended 140

labels

you're

for

distance.

the For

example, you could plant cool -

In addition to seeds or plants,

season

gather gardening equipment.

crops

in

rows

and

designate another portion of

When planting a small garden,

your garden for warm -season

simple hand tools such as a

plants.

garden trowel for digging, a

•

rake for leveling the soil, a

Use the recommended

shovel, and a watering can are

spacing as a guide when

sufficient.

designing your garden.

okra

require

your

a

•

m) between their rows. could

alternate

onions

local

nursery,

garden

Gardening

gloves

to

protect your hands from

rows of onions and okra since

some

center, or online:

distance of 3 feet (0.91

You

are

additional items available at

For instance, plants such as

Here

calluses and splinters. •

only

Soil-improving fertilizer

require a minimum of 1

or compost to enrich the

foot (0.30 m) of space

soil. •

between them. 5. Gather

your

essential

A hose or sprinkler for watering larger gardens.

•

gardening supplies.

A ruler for determining planting

depth

and

spacing. •

String and stakes for tall or trailing plants like beans and cucumbers.

141

•

Garden

•

pest-proof

fencing materials •

Plan

on

applying

1

pound (450 grams) of

A garden journal

fertilizer per 100 square

to

keep track of what was

feet (9.3 square meters)

planted and how it did.

of soil. •

6. Add fertilizer or compost,

The

majority

of

vegetables will thrive if

then level the soil.

you

fertilize

beginning

at of

the the

growing season. 7. Plant warm-season crops after the final frost has passed.

Remove any rocks, roots, or sticks, and amend the soil with

nutrients.

Remove

anything from the soil that could impede the growth of plant

roots

as

you

move

through your garden. Then,

If you want a summer garden,

incorporate

cultivate plants that require a

an

all -purpose

fertilizer (such as 13 -13-13) or

great deal of light and heat.

compost

Most

into the top four

beginning

gardeners

inches (10 centimeters) of soil.

begin their plots in the spring or

The soil is level ed by dragging

early summer because so many

a rake across it.

plants thrive in ample sunlight and warmth. These are some of 142

the most recommended warm-

warms up. If you prefer to plant

season plants for beginners:

cool-season plants, you should

•

Watermelons, cantaloupes, cucumbers,

wait until late summer and

beans,

plant until the first frost of

corn,

autumn.

eggplant,

•

okra,

peppers,

pumpkins,

southern

sprouts,

cabbage,

sweet

carrots,

cauliflower,

peas,

squash,

Beets, broccoli, Brussels

potatoes, tomatoes, and

collards, kale, kohlrabi,

cantaloupes are some of

lettuce, mustard, onions,

the fruits and vegetables

peas, potatoes, radishes,

available.

rutabagas, Swiss chard, spinach, and turnips

8. Plant crops for the cool season in late summer.

9. Plant your seeds or your seedlings.

Maintain

your

garden

by

planting crops that can be harvested

in

the

Dig holes or bury seeds 14 to

autumn.

12 inches (0.64 to 1.27 cm)

There are numerous crops that

deep for your plant starts or

thrive in cooler temperatures

seeds. Consult the plant's label

and less sunlight, so you do not

to determine the recommended

need to wait until the weather

planting depth. Then, dig a hole 143

and place the plant's roots inside. Fill the hole with dirt and lightly compact it. Spread seeds across the soil's surface and

cover

them

with

the When the top 2 inches (5.1

recommended amount of soil.

cm) of soil feels dry, water •

Keep in mind that seeds

your garden. If the seeds or

are not planted very deeply

because

plant starts become dry, they

they

will not grow. Check the garden

require sunlight upon

in the morning and water the

germination. •

soil with a hose or watering

Use a ruler to mark straight

rows if

can. If you live in a dry or hot

you

climate, you may need to water

prefer to plant seeds in

your lawn more often. [10]

rows. Then, lightly drag •

your finger through the

Watering during the day

soil to create a very

allows

shallow

evaporate

depression.

water

to

from

the

leaves.

Cover your seeds with

11. Pull weeds at least several

soil and place them in

times per week.

rows. 10. Keep the soil in your garden moist.

144

Use a small trowel to remove weeds

that

threaten

Project 19: Compost Pile Construction Instructions

your

plants. Spread mulch or leafy organic material across your garden bed to reduce the time

The formation of a compost

you spend pulling weeds. The mulch

suffocates

pile is simultaneously one of

weeds,

the easiest and most significant

preventing them from stealing vital

nutrients

from

gardening tasks you will ever

your

undertake. Organic matter will

vegetables.

deteriorate into its component •

If wildlife is a problem

parts on its own if given enough

in your yard, erect a

time and allowed to be exposed

fence

to the elements.

around

your

garden to keep pests However, you also have the

out.

option of speeding up the process.

The

practice

of

composting come s into play at this

point.

Compost

is

an

excellent source of nutrition for plants. It enhances the quality of soil, it feeds beneficial microorganisms, and it prevents valuable materials from being thrown away in landfills. Not to mention enjoyable! Here i s a 145

guide on how to build your very

their compost pile in their

own compost pile.

garden. •

First and foremost, lay the groundwork

for

The pile needs to be easily

your

accessible

in

order to accommodate

compost pile [Part 1]

the high volume of work that will be performed on it. Because you will be adding to the mound, turning it, and removing

1. Decide where you want to

finished compost from

stand. Depending on your

it, getting to the pile

preferences, the pile should

shouldn't be too difficult

be placed in such a way that

for you.

it is easily accessible but

•

If there is a drought, you

hidden from the primary

will need to water the

view

pile, so keep it close to

of

your

yard

or

garden. If you do not want

the

to be able to see your

Composting is a process

compost

that involves decay, so

pile

in

your

watering

hose.

garden, you should either

it is vital to keep the pile

put it in a location that is

of compost away from

not easily visible or screen

your house, shed, and

it off with something. Some

fence so that it does not

people do not mind seeing

cause damage to these structures. 146

•

local

whereas carbon materials

government to find out

are in short supply during

if there are any local

these seasons. In the fall,

regulations that prohibi t

there is a profusion of

the

materials that are high in

Contact

your

placement

of

compost

piles

near

property

lines.

It's

nitrogen clippings)

possible that you won't

carbon

be

leaves).

able

to

put

(such

the

and

(such

as high

grass

as

in dead

compost pile wherever you want to if there are such regulations.

3. Decide how much control 2. Begin

the

of

you want to have over the

creating your compost pile

situation. A simple mound

at the right time of year.

can be used as a compost

Even though you can start a

pile; to mak e one, simply

compost pile at any time of

toss

year,

materials onto the mound

there

process

are

specific

all

compostable

times of year when it will

and

be most successful. High -

decompose. You can also

nitrogen

put rocks, boards, pieces of

elements

are

wait

for

them

to

always present during the

concrete, or fences around

spring

the pile to keep it in.

and

summer, 147

•

Utilize a compost bin

4.

Contemplate

the

and set up your own

possibility of building a

vermicomposting

straightforward container

system to

for your pile. There are as

ach ieve a

quicker

and

effective

method

many

more

different

ways

to

build a pile foundation as

of

composting. This will

there are ways to conceive

allow you to save time

of what it might look like.

and

effort.

You only need

bins

are

superior

to

Compost

a very

typically

simple pile, but if you want,

compost

you

can

upgrade

to

mounds when it comes

containers that are better

to the breakdown of

quality

organic matter due to

aesthetically pleasing. Here

the fact that compost

is how to put together your

bins keep everything in

most

one location.

container: •

and

more

fundamental

Create a plot that is at least three feet by three feet in size. This will be big enough to hide in your backyard, despite being able to hold a significant amount of organic waste and not look unsightly doing it.

148

•

Get

some

2x4s

and

Part 2: Establishing a Cycle

wooden stakes of the

for Your Routine

right size. For extra credit,

get

some

medium-sized branches with a more rustic look. •

Gather eno ugh so that 1. You should not add to the

you can drive the 2x4s

mountain that you already

into a 3' x 3' square at an approximate

have.

half -foot

you

between

will 15

organic material, with the

need

and

exception

20

of

oily

or

diseased plants. Foods such

stakes. •

is

possible with almost any

interval. To accomplish this,

Composting

as cheese and meat do not

Once you've formed a

decompose in the correct

square, drive a stake

manner, which can lead to

every half foot into the

problems with rodents and

ground. It is possible

harmful bugs.

that you w ill want to keep one of the sides open. This will make it easier for you to get to your pile and turn it over with a shovel or fork.

149

based (dead, brown, or dry) and nitrogen-based (green) materials. In most cases, it is

suggested

combination •

Plants

that

disease

have

a

should

be

in

a

composted

lightly sprayed with water from a garden hose, but it should not be allowed to

pathogens. If a compost

become soaked.

pile is not turned every

•

few days and all plant

all you have is green

center, the temperature

plant

uneven

sources biodegradable

throughout

possible:

✔ Shredded cardboard

leaving

✔ Sawdust and wood chips

2. Make an effort to strike a between

carbon

✔ Paper towel

thing

damaged plants alone.

balance

of

include the following:

your garden by doing simplest

(like

only have grass. Other

best to avoid spreading

the

material

grass), such as if you

pile.

Because of thi s, it is

problems

You can use newspaper as a source of carbon if

matter is placed in the

the

sixty

of your materials should be

temperature to kill the

throughout

a

percent nitrogen. Each layer

heated to a high enough

be

of

use

percent carbon and forty

container that can be

will

to

carbon150

✔ Used

•

animal

bedding

What

does

do?

When

shredding organic

✔ Dry leaves

materials are shredded,

✔ Straw

the amount of surface

✔ Small

area that they have is

branches/twigs

increased, which makes them more susceptible to

bacterial

Larger

invasion.

fragments

of

organic material inhibit the aerobic breakdown

3. Make a decision regarding

of the material.

whether or not you want •

to shred your documents.

high vegetal content or

material instead of throwing away.

that

Shredding

significantly quickens the pace of the cycle,

composting

making

it

wet.

These

materials

absorb

an

excessive

amount

of

high aerobic

who value efficiency. When

water

content,

decomposition

is made much more

you shred something, you

difficult by this factor.

end up with a heap that is organized

are

water. Because of their

an

excellent c hoice for those

more

shredding

organic materials with a

You can choose to shred the

it

Avoid

and

requires less effort to turn. 151

the bottom of the pile, and the ones with the least weight on top. • 4. Begin

constructing

The

second

layer

is

made up of nitrogen,

the

layers. This is the most

which is often referred

exciting part of it all. You

to as the spark that gets

should make an effort to

the composting process

add layers to your compos t

going. Nitrogen can be

pile whenever you add new

found

materials to it. There are

manures and fertilizers,

three primary layers that

as well as in the waste

make up a compost pile,

products of vegetable

and it is essential that they

gardens, grass clippings,

be

and other garden waste,

assembled

in

the

The

first

composed

animal

as well as in starters for

following order: •

in

layer of

microbial armies.

is

•

carbon,

Sterile potting soils

which can be found in

and

hay, sod, straw, leaves,

treated soils should

untreated

be avoided because

sawdust,

insecticide-

chopped corncobs, corn

they do not contain

stalks, and small twigs,

or

among other carbon-rich

microorganisms. •

materials. Put the items

nourish

Topsoil potting

with the most mass at 152

vital

Sterile soils

and

insecticide-treated soils

should

insects, be

and

worms

responsible

avoided.

for

are the

decomposition process. In order to be healthy, each of these organisms must have access to oxygen and water.

5. If you have any twigs, you should

definitely

The Third Part: Taking Care

add

of the Compost Stack

those in. To ensure that there is sufficient airflow, add material of a coarser texture approximately every 8 inches (20.3 cm). It's 1. "Stir"

possible that large plant

the

pile

of

stems or twigs will come in

debris every once in a

handy. You are also free to

while. A pitchfork is

use

non -compostable

used to lift the middle to

materials so long as they do

the outer edges and the

not introduce any harmful

outer

chemicals

middle to accomplish

into

your

edges

to

the

compost pile. Compost can

this goal. In addition,

be

water the ground if it is

thought

of

as

an

organism that both lives and

dry. This will ensure

breathes

that the decomposition

on

its

own.

takes

Microorganisms, beneficial 153

place

in

an

appropriate

and

weather is warmer,

consistent manner.

it is possible to feel the

heat

when

turning the pile. •

It is important to keep in mind that

2. Ensure that the stack

adding an excessive

is kept up to date. It is

amount of water will

imperative

kill the bacteria and

that

the

center of the pile be

scare

kept hot and evenly

worms.

saturated.

the

also

the

compost pile to emit

When

temperature

in

away

the

This

may

cause

middle of the pile falls

a

below

43

described

Celsius

(110

degrees

smell

that

the

is as

"rotten." If the pile

degrees

Fahrenheit), you should

is

use a shovel to turn the

become too dry, the

organic material and stir

process

the pile.

decomposition

•

If the weather is

come to a halt. Aim

chilly, you'll be able

for

to tell if the pile is

moistness.

hot because you'll see steam coming off of it. When the 154

allowed

to

of will

uniform

5. Maintain

a

high

temperature. though

it

Even is

not

necessary, heating the pile

3. Turn and thoroughly water

less

compost

piles

will

hasten

the

active

process

every

decomposition. You can

four to six weeks.

of

toss all of your plants

If

you add new layers to

onto

your

very

nature will take care of

infrequently, you won't

them in its own good

have to mix it nearly as

time.

often

decomposition

compost

as

you

would

the

and

The

majority

otherwise.

heap,

of

of

the

plants

requires a more drawn -

4. A small compost pile that is started in the fall

out

should be ready to use

typically takes around a

at

the

spring,

process

that

beginning

of

year. To keep the heat

which

is

generated by the pile at

approximately three to

a consistent level, ro tate

four months later.

it every few days. Part 4: Common Composting Issues and Diagnosis

155

After

Conclusion

compiling

your

list,

conduct a few drills with your During the first two days, we

family and then fill in the gaps.

discussed a few checklist items from

my

personal

list.

Be safe!

I

strongly recommend that you create your own list. Feel free to utilize anything from my list, but remember to personalize it. My step -by-step grid -down list has a number of actions that my family might take based on our particular circumstances. You should add details that may be particular

to

your

circumstances. This book just discusses t he initial two days. The third day and beyond will be discussed in a separate essay. This should provide

you

with

thought

and

assist

fuel

for

you

in

getting started. Finally, my recommendation: practice,

practice,

practice! 156