We can build it together
One of our goals on the land is to do as little harm as possible to the ecosystem as we build our community. This means that we must protect resources and habitat, only using what we need, and taking it from areas that can best handle it, so the next generation can do the same.
First things first, those who are interested will take up equipment and storage containers as weather allows, to begin construction of a meeting house, a safe place that we can gather, and work on other projects. Wood will be cut this winter to prepare for building, and we will do this with as little cash as possible - a challenge, using sweat equity.
If there is a spring on the land, it may be capped for drinking water, which would eliminate the need to drill a well immediately, lowering initial costs. There is a possibility of using any flowing water for hydroelectric generation. When the number of homes on the property grows and wells need to be drilled, the cost of drilling and infrastructure will be split between those who use them.
There is electircal grid capability in designated zones of the property, for those who wish to use it. It will cost people who wish to use the grid power for their homes to have it
brought onto the land for hookup and metering. The majority of the property will be completely off grid, for those who prefer that lifestyle.
Once the land has been mapped, we can begin building our homes on our designated plots.
Here is a very rough example
of what the village could look like:
Remember that this is a long term project, with plenty of time for further development, so nothing has to happen right away. Infrastructure costs may change based on needs that become evident as time goes on, and more members join.
There is much work for many caring hands. We need your help!
We will need coordinators
for these projects later on:
• Community Gardens
• Community Greenhouse
• Community Farm
These positions could be paid, and supported in the beginning by volunteers who have relevant skills, or are interested in learning about these processes. The produce generated would be sold in our community, or at local markets. These could constitute a Community Business.
Community Workshops for woodworking, metal work and welding, mechanical, etc. connected to external electricity and available to all Members when they request (Hydro/use fee applicable).
Community Storage Sheds for equipment and garbage/recycling depot, and Tool Sharing Centre, if people are willing to donate tools for this purpose.
Here, 3 acre plots are mapped out based on which resources they are closest to.
Green plots in the central portion would be used by off-grid homesteaders, who are more likely to want to share resources and participate in community farming projects.
Yellow plots are near access to hydro, and close enough to the road that pump trucks could come in to empty septcic systems. These could be used for permanent homes or cottages.
Pink plots could be used for campers or rental cottages, which we would maintain for profit to offset other costs.
Even with over 100 3-acre plots, there is lots of natural space.