Homesteading skills that you should know

Homesteading skills that you should know

There's not any specific law that prevents anybody from homesteading and making their own way in "The Natural State." In the grand scheme of things, self-sustaining practices such as growing your own food, harvesting rainwater, having a compostable toilet, using solar power, etc. in Arkansas is in fact considered a self-sustaining right. However, there are a few loopholes out there that you'll have to go through in order to do some of these things legally, which in turn may seem like a hard slap in the face, to some, if you're wanting to be completely self-reliant. This unfortunately is also the case for living completely off-grid in "The Natural State."

Since Arkansas is known as being "The Natural State," most people would assume that you would be able to buy some land, set up a modern-day homestead, and run it in the ways that you see fit. However, this isn't entirely the case in our state.

What's the definition of a modern-day homesteader?

If you're unsure of what a modern-day homesteader is, allow me to explain. A modern-day homesteader simply is anyone who lives a lifestyle being self-sufficient. In modern terms, you don't specifically have to own a lot of acreage, nor raise farm animals to be a homesteader. Most modern-day homesteaders just live a quaint, peaceful, self-sustainable lifestyle, while growing self-produced organic food and preserving it for their families. They try to live in harmony with nature and live environmentally friendly. 

Most Arkansas homesteaders use electricity, but some also harness power from the sun with solar. They also have city, or rural water, and harvest rainwater for their gardening.

The state of Arkansas does somewhat seem to encourage its residents to be semi-self-reliant. I use the words semi-self-reliant, because while it is completely legal to live off-grid, use solar power, harvest rainwater, and use a state approved compost toilet inside your dwelling, etc.. It's illegal in our state to have a DIY built outhouse (an outhouse must meet NSF approval standards), drink purified rainwater, and use a DIY compostable toilet in your dwelling. (I plan to cover these topics in more detail in upcoming articles.) Portable bathrooms like the ones sold at All Safety Products are legal to sit up on site.

When it comes down to the basics of homesteading, I deem three categories as being the utmost important homesteading skills and they are harvesting water, growing and preserving food, and having self-sustainable heat. 

Important homesteading skills everyone should know:

1. Purifying harvested water, stocking up on water (purchased or tap gathered, and rain barrel harvesting)

Purified drinking water is always at the top of my list, because without water, nothing can survive. Harvesting rain water is also vital for watering self-produced food. 

Another important thing that everyone should do is store up enough water for you and your family. Enough to last at least two weeks. Store up more than that if you have room to do so.

If possible, process (can) jars of water to store for emergencies. 

In fact, it is my opinion that every state should start allowing people to have the option to harvest rainwater, because rainwater can be filtered, purified, and treated safely to drink, bathe in, etc.. It's environmentally friendly. Plus, it would save everyone a ton of money in the long run. However, in Arkansas, this option is only allowed for non-potable uses. Arkansans can only harvest rainwater for watering their lawns and for watering self-produced food. Each household is allowed to harvest only 110 gallons of rain in rain barrels in our state.

Arkansas is, in fact, heavily regulated when it concerns rainwater harvesting; it is only permitted for non-drinking purposes. The rainwater system has to comply with the Arkansas Plumbing Code. Which has to be designed by a state-licensed professional, and must also include cross-connection safeguards. Which in turn avoids contaminating other natural water sources. (Ryan, 2022)

However, if the poo-poo should hit the fan, I believe that it's wise to purchase water purifying tablets to keep on hand just in case there is an emergency. These tablets make rainwater safe to drink, as well as water from water tanks, ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, etc.. Water purifying straws are also available for this purpose.

And if you can afford to go bigger, you can also purchase a Berkey water filter system that will remove 99.9% of almost all contaminants from your drinking water.

2. Self-producing your own food

Growing, canning, dehydrating, freeze drying, salt curing, freezing, smoking, and fermenting self-produced food should be the second most important thing that you learn to do.

If you don't have a green-thumb, learn the basics of growing sprouts. Growing sprouts is ridiculously simple and sprouts are packed with viable nutrients.

3. Sustainable heating source: such as a wood-burning stove

With the high costs of oil and gas, it's even more important to make sure you have a viable way to heat your home in the winter. I feel that learning how to cut, gather and split firewood is another important thing to learn.

Should you lose power because of a storm, or other unforeseeable reason, you're going to need a back-up source to keep your home warm.

Wood-burning fireplaces and stoves are a perfect alternative. They're also environmentally friendly too.

Plus, should the power grid go down in the winter, you can also cook your food for free on top of a wood stove. I do this regardless if the power is on or off in the winter. For the holidays, there's nothing better than a turkey and ham that's been slowly roasted by a wood stove.

Also, when investing in a wood stove, don't forget about also getting a wood stove fan. The fan sits on top of your stove fireplace and harnesses the heat from your stove to power it. (In other words, wood stove fans help circulate the heat totally for free.)

Other essential preparedness items:

Stock up on essential items such as toiletries, medicines, bandages, medical super glue, duct tape, rolls of thick plastic, respiratory masks, backpacks, thermal blankets, heated vests and coats, manual can opener, matches, survival knives, garden seeds, solar battery bank, solar generator with solar panels, solar battery charger, solar radio, solar lights, battery operated led string lights, flashlights, kerosene lanterns, outdoor smoker, grill, paper plates, tarps, pet food and other pet supplies, etc.. 

Should you have an unfortunate accident and have cuts that would need stitches, but couldn't see a doctor, you can use medical super glue on the wounds. As it dries extremely quickly, it also will close the wounds, which will stop the bleeding. 

Resources:

Wehner, T. (2022, June 22). Arkansas off grid laws: An in-depth guide (2022). Unbate. https://unbate.ngontinh24.com/article/arkansas-off-grid-laws-an-in-depth-guide

Arkansas administrative code | agency 007 - ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH | division 04 - environmental health services | rule 007.04.93-005 - alternative systems manual. (n.d.). Justia Law. https://regulations.justia.com/states/arkansas/agency-007/division-04/rule-007-04-93-005/

Is it legal to collect rainwater in Arkansas? (n.d.). Is it legal to collect rainwater in Arkansas? https://www.uaex.uada.edu/environment-nature/water/conservation/collecting-rainwater.aspx

Ryan, J. (2022, January 20). Solved! Is it illegal to collect rainwater? Bob Vila. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/is-it-illegal-to-collect-rainwater/

---

© 2025 Olden Oasis

oldenoasis.blogspot.com

How to Conserve Water on a Homestead

Image by JonasKIM

How to Conserve Water on a Homestead

Introduction

Hey there, homesteaders! If you're looking for ways to conserve water on your small-scale farm or homestead, you've come to the right place. Water is a precious resource, and it's important to use it wisely, especially when you're living off the land. Here are some tips to help you save water and reduce your environmental impact.

Collect Rainwater

One of the easiest ways to save water on your homestead is by collecting rainwater. Set up rain barrels or a rainwater harvesting system to capture water from your roof. You can use this water for watering your plants, washing your hands, or even flushing your toilet.

Use Drip Irrigation

Instead of using a sprinkler system that can waste a lot of water through evaporation, consider installing a drip irrigation system. This delivers water directly to the roots of your plants, reducing water waste and ensuring that your plants get the hydration they need.

Mulch Your Garden

Adding a layer of mulch to your garden beds can help retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering. Mulch also helps prevent weeds from growing, which can compete with your plants for water.

Fix Leaks

Check for leaks in your irrigation system, hoses, and faucets regularly. Even a small leak can waste a significant amount of water over time. By fixing leaks promptly, you can save water and reduce your water bill.

Reuse Water

Get creative with how you use water on your homestead. For example, you can reuse water from washing vegetables to water your garden. You can also collect water from your dehumidifier or air conditioner to use for watering plants.

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you can conserve water on your small homestead and do your part to protect the environment. Every drop counts, so make sure to use water wisely and efficiently. Your plants, animals, and the planet will thank you!

How to Use Compost in Your Garden

Image by noname_13

How to Use Compost in Your Garden

What is Compost?

Compost is a mixture of organic materials that have decomposed over time. It is rich in nutrients and is often used as a natural fertilizer for plants.

Why Use Compost in Your Garden?

Compost helps improve soil structure, retain moisture, and provide essential nutrients for plant growth. It also helps reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, making it an eco-friendly option for gardening.

How to Use Compost in Your Garden

1. Start by creating a compost pile

You can make a compost pile in your backyard using kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials. Make sure to turn the pile regularly to help speed up the decomposition process.

2. Add compost to your garden beds

Once your compost is ready, you can add it to your garden beds to improve soil quality. Spread a layer of compost on top of the soil and mix it in thoroughly before planting your seeds or seedlings.

3. Use compost as mulch

You can also use compost as mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Simply spread a layer of compost around the base of your plants, making sure not to cover the stems.

Benefits of Using Compost

Using compost in your garden can help improve plant growth, increase soil fertility, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. It is a cost-effective and sustainable way to nourish your plants and promote a healthy garden ecosystem.

Olden Oasis Homestead: A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Simple Living

Image is of my grand-dad Charles Ball at the homestead many years ago.

Olden Oasis Homestead: A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Simple Living

Welcome to Olden Oasis Homestead, where craftsmanship and simple living come together to create a legacy that has stood the test of time. Built over a hundred years ago by my talented grandparents, this homestead is a testament to hard work and dedication.

Starting with just one room, my grandparents expanded the house over the years using only hand tools, showcasing their exceptional skills. The solid oak construction of the home speaks to the quality of their work, while other buildings like the washhouse, storage buildings, and storm cellar stand as further evidence of their craftsmanship.

Life on the homestead has always been bustling with a variety of animals, including chickens. My grandmother was a true jack-of-all-trades, excelling in everything from homesteading to sewing, gardening to cooking. Her green thumb turned the gardens into a lush oasis of growth and beauty.

Living at Olden Oasis Homestead meant embracing a simpler way of life. With outdoor plumbing and laundry done by hand on a washboard, my grandparents found fulfillment in hard work and self-sufficiency. Despite the challenges they faced, their dedication to their craft and their land has created a legacy that continues to thrive today.

Using Tree Limbs as Fencing on a Small Scale Homestead

Image by TimHill

Using Tree Limbs as Fencing on a Small Scale Homestead

Why Use Tree Limbs as Fencing?

When you have a small homestead, you may not have the budget for expensive fencing materials. That's where using down tree limbs can come in handy! Not only is it a cost-effective solution, but it also adds a rustic charm to your property.

Choosing the Right Tree Limbs

Before you start using tree limbs as fencing, make sure you choose the right ones. Look for limbs that are sturdy and long enough to span the desired length of your fence. Avoid using limbs that are rotting or weak, as they won't provide the necessary support.

Gathering Tree Limbs

Take a walk around your property and look for any downed tree limbs that are suitable for fencing. You can also ask neighbors or friends if they have any limbs they are willing to part with. Make sure to ask for permission before taking any limbs from someone else's property.

Installing the Fence

Once you have gathered enough tree limbs, it's time to start installing your fence. Dig holes at regular intervals along the perimeter where you want the fence to go. Place the tree limbs in the holes and pack dirt around them to secure them in place. You can also use wire or twine to further secure the limbs if needed.

Maintaining the Fence

Check your tree limb fence regularly to make sure it is holding up well. Replace any limbs that have become damaged or rotted to ensure the integrity of your fence. With proper maintenance, your tree limb fence can last for years to come.

How to Begin Your Own Mini Farm: Tips for Getting Started

Image by Jan_Meyes

How to Begin Your Own Mini Farm: Tips for Getting Started

Choosing the Right Location

When starting your own small-scale homestead, it's important to choose the right location. Look for a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has good drainage. You'll also want to consider the proximity to water sources and access to utilities like electricity and plumbing.

Planning Your Layout

Before you start planting crops or raising animals, take some time to plan out your homestead layout. Consider where you want to place your garden, livestock pens, and any other structures you may need. This will help you make the most of the space you have available.

Starting with the Basics

When you're just starting out, it's best to focus on the basics. Start by planting easy-to-grow vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, and carrots. You can also consider raising chickens for eggs or meat. As you gain more experience, you can start to expand and try new things.

Building Your Skills

Homesteading requires a variety of skills, from gardening to animal husbandry. Take the time to learn as much as you can about each aspect of homesteading. There are plenty of resources available online and in books to help you along the way.

Staying Organized

Keeping your homestead organized is key to success. Make sure to keep track of planting schedules, animal care routines, and any other tasks that need to be done. This will help you stay on top of things and ensure that your homestead runs smoothly.

Setting Goals

It's important to set goals for your homestead. Whether you want to grow enough food to feed your family or start a small business selling produce, having clear goals will help keep you motivated and focused on your homesteading journey.

Homesteading: Not Just for Big Farms

Image by arttower

Homesteading: Not Just for Big Farms

Have you ever wondered what a homestead really is? Some people think you need a huge piece of land to be a homesteader, but that's not always the case. In reality, a homestead can be as small as half an acre, or even less, for a single family to thrive. The only time you really need a lot of land is if you're a commercial homesteader. So, don't think you have to be super rich to be a homesteader. You can plant a garden just about anywhere to grow food. Let's learn more about this topic.

A homestead is a piece of land where people live and grow their own food. It doesn't have to be a huge farm - even a small backyard can be a homestead!

According to Merriam-Webster, a homestead is defined as "the home and adjoining land occupied by a family," "an ancestral home," or "a tract of land acquired from U.S. public lands by filing a record and living on and cultivating the tract." In simpler terms, it means to acquire or occupy land as a homestead.

So, whether you have a big farm or just a small backyard, you can still be a homesteader and enjoy the benefits of growing your own food. It's not just for the wealthy - anyone can do it!