Welcome to Barndovilla! Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, our homestead journey is all about creating a sustainable and rewarding life on the land. In today’s blog post, we’re diving into a recent video where we tackled some major projects around the homestead. From removing stubborn tree stumps to expanding our chicken run and even harvesting our first watermelons, it was a day full of hard work, learning experiences, and plenty of fun. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and join us as we take you through the ins and outs of this action-packed day on the homestead.
YouTube Homestead Video
Table of Contents
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The Challenge of Stump Removal: Why It’s Important for Your Homestead
Why We Needed to Remove the Stumps
One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced on the homestead has been dealing with leftover tree stumps. These stumps, left over from previous land clearing, were not only an eyesore but also a physical barrier preventing us from expanding our fence line and utilizing more of our land. Additionally, stumps can become a haven for pests like termites, ants, and other critters that you definitely don’t want getting too comfortable on your property.
On this particular day, we had a cluster of five large stumps that were particularly problematic. They were located along the south side of our property, right where we planned to extend our fence line. It was clear that removing these stumps was a top priority if we wanted to make progress on our homestead expansion.
The Tools We Used: Mini Excavator vs. Tractor
When it comes to stump removal, having the right tools can make all the difference. For this job, we brought in Mike with his trusty mini excavator. We’ve tried using our smaller tractor with a backhoe attachment in the past, but it just didn’t have the power needed to handle these stubborn stumps. The mini excavator, on the other hand, packed enough punch to get the job done.
The process wasn’t easy—these stumps were deeply rooted, with some going 4 to 4.5 feet deep into the ground. The soil in the Ozarks, while rich and fertile, can be a challenge to work with because of its rocky nature. However, the mini excavator proved to be up to the task, and after some maneuvering and muscle, we were able to get those stumps out of the ground.
Preparing the Land: Clearing the Tree Line for Future Projects
Why Clearing the Tree Line Was Necessary
Once the stumps were out, our next task was to clear the surrounding tree line. This is an essential step in preparing the land for future projects, whether it’s building new structures, planting crops, or simply improving the aesthetics of the property. For us, clearing this particular tree line was all about getting ready to put in an electric fence.
An electric fence is a must-have on a homestead, especially if you’re raising livestock or growing crops that you want to protect from wildlife. By clearing the tree line, we’re not only making space for the fence but also ensuring that it will be effective. Overhanging branches or thick brush can interfere with the fence, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to problems down the line.
Preserving What We Can: The Importance of Shade and Habitat
While we cleared out a lot of brush and smaller trees, we made a conscious effort to preserve certain trees, like a particularly nice cedar tree. Shade is incredibly valuable on a homestead, especially in the hot and humid climate of north-central Arkansas. By keeping certain trees intact, we’re not only maintaining natural shade but also preserving habitat for local wildlife. We’ve found that a balanced approach—clearing where necessary but preserving what we can—is the best way to manage our land sustainably.
Homestead Hacks: Turning Debris into Chicken Bedding
The Problem: What to Do with All That Brush?
After clearing the tree line and removing the stumps, we were left with a significant amount of brush and debris. On a homestead, nothing goes to waste if you can help it, and that’s where a little ingenuity comes into play. Instead of simply hauling off the brush or burning it, we decided to repurpose it into chicken bedding.
https://t.co/Jl3BmSfy6U Welcome to another sun-filled, sweat-packed day at Barndovilla! 🌞 We’re deep into clearing stumps, setting up premium poultry netting, and harvesting our first homegrown watermelons.
For this task, we brought out our DK2 chipper. This machine is an absolute workhorse when it comes to processing brush. By feeding the branches and smaller logs through the chipper, we were able to produce a nice, soft bedding material for our chickens. Not only is this a great way to recycle organic material, but it also saves us money on buying bedding and reduces our waste output.
Chicken bedding serves multiple purposes on the homestead. It keeps the chicken coop clean and dry, helps control odors, and eventually breaks down into nutrient-rich compost that can be used in the garden. It’s a perfect example of the kind of closed-loop system we strive to create at Barndovilla.
The Joy of Harvest: Growing and Enjoying Watermelons
First Time Growing Watermelons: Successes and Lessons Learned
After a morning full of hard work, we took a well-deserved break to enjoy the fruits of our labor—literally! This year, we decided to try our hand at growing watermelons for the first time, and let me tell you, it was a sweet success. There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food, especially when it turns out as delicious as these watermelons did.
Harvesting and Tasting Our Watermelons
The moment of truth came when we cut open our first watermelon. The bright red flesh and sweet, juicy flavor were everything we hoped for. As it turns out, watermelon is relatively easy to grow in our Ozark soil, especially if you give the plants plenty of water and sunshine. We planted seeded varieties, which means we can save seeds for next year’s crop—a win-win in terms of sustainability and cost savings.
The joy of growing and harvesting your own food is one of the most rewarding aspects of homesteading. It’s a reminder of why we chose this lifestyle in the first place—to connect with the land, nurture our resources, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Expanding the Chicken Run: Enhancing Our Poultry Setup
Why We Expanded the Chicken Run
As any homesteader knows, chickens are a vital part of a sustainable farm. They provide eggs, help control pests, and contribute to the overall health of the soil through their natural tilling and fertilizing actions. Given how important our chickens are, we decided it was time to expand their run and give them more space to roam and forage.
We chose to expand the chicken run into our sunflower garden, which had already been harvested for the season. This not only provides the chickens with a new area to explore but also allows them to clean up any leftover seeds, which helps prepare the soil for the next planting cycle.
Setting Up the Premium Poultry Netting
To make this expansion possible, we needed a reliable way to contain the chickens and protect them from predators. Enter the premium poultry netting we recently reviewed in our video. This netting is lightweight, easy to set up, and highly visible, making it an excellent choice for our homestead.
The netting comes with sturdy stakes and guy ropes, ensuring that it stays in place even in windy conditions. One of the features we appreciated most was the double spikes, which allow you to push the stakes into the ground with your foot—no need for a mallet, which is a real time-saver.
We connected the poultry netting to our existing electric fence system, adding an extra layer of protection. Electrifying the fence and the chicken coop provides a strong deterrent against predators like snakes and raccoons, which are always a concern in rural areas.
The Importance of Proper Fence and Coop Setup
Why Electrification Matters
One of the key takeaways from expanding the chicken run was the importance of electrifying not just the fence but the entire coop. Chickens, while hardy in many respects, are vulnerable to predators. A secure, electrified setup is crucial for their safety and for our peace of mind.
The process of electrifying the chicken run and coop wasn’t difficult, but it did require careful planning and setup. By running an electric line from the fence to the coop, we were able to create a seamless barrier that keeps unwanted visitors out. This setup has been incredibly effective, and we highly recommend it to other homesteaders looking to protect their flocks.
Maintaining Equipment: The Ups and Downs of Chainsaw Maintenance
Chainsaw Troubles: When Things Don’t Go as Planned
No day on the homestead is complete without a few hiccups, and this day was no exception. After clearing the stumps and expanding the chicken run, we turned our attention to helping out a family member with some tree removal. However, our chainsaws had other ideas.
Despite our best efforts, both chainsaws started acting up, refusing to run smoothly after a short while. It quickly became apparent that we were dealing with a fuel problem—likely some bad gas that was causing the chainsaws to sputter and stall. This was frustrating, to say the least, but it’s all part of the homesteading experience.
The Solution: Fuel Replacement and Chainsaw Maintenance
Our solution was to drain the old fuel, replace it with fresh gas, and give the chainsaws a thorough cleaning. We also decided to pick up some new chains, as the old ones had taken a beating during our earlier stump removal efforts. Maintaining your equipment is crucial on a homestead, where tools like chainsaws are essential for day-to-day operations.
Lessons Learned: The Value of Patience and Perseverance
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Wins
As we wrapped up the day, it was clear that we had accomplished a lot, despite the challenges we faced. From successfully removing stumps and expanding the chicken run to enjoying our first watermelon harvest, it was a day filled with both hard work and rewarding moments.
Homesteading is a lifestyle that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s dealing with stubborn stumps, maintaining equipment, or simply managing the day-to-day tasks, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Barndovilla?
With the tree line cleared and the chicken run expanded, our next big project will be installing the electric fence and continuing to prepare the land for future planting. We’re also looking forward to more harvests, as our garden continues to produce a bounty of fruits and vegetables.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life at Barndovilla. Whether you’re an experienced homesteader or just starting out, we hope you found some inspiration and practical tips to apply to your own homestead. Stay tuned for more updates, videos, and blog posts as we continue to build, grow, and enjoy life on the land.
Affiliate Notice: Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our homestead and allows us to continue sharing our journey with you. Thank you for your support!
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Homestead Lifestyle
Homesteading is more than just a way of life—it’s a commitment to self-sufficiency, sustainability, and community. At Barndovilla, we’re constantly learning, adapting, and sharing our experiences with others who are on a similar path. Whether it’s through our YouTube videos, blog posts, or hands-on projects, our goal is to inspire and empower others to embrace the homestead lifestyle.
We invite you to follow along with our journey, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and check out our other blog posts for more tips, tricks, and insights into homesteading in the Ozarks. Together, we can create a thriving, sustainable future—one project at a time. See more at https://barndovilla.com/journal/
Spring is a time of renewal and growth, but it’s not without its challenges. As homesteaders, we’re always at the mercy of the weather, and this spring was no exception. We faced an unexpected freeze that put our plants at risk and tested our resilience. However, with some quick thinking and adaptation, we managed to protect our crops and move forward with our plans.
The Low Tunnel Solution
One of our major projects this spring was the construction of a low tunnel. This simple structure, made from galvanized electrical conduit and covered with plastic, provided a much-needed shelter for our plants during the cold snap. It’s a cost-effective solution that we’ll continue to use in the future to extend our growing season and protect our crops from frost.
New Additions to the Flock
Spring also brought new life to our homestead in the form of a flock of laying hens. We chose a mix of breeds, including Onyx Californians and Rhode Island Reds, to ensure a good variety of eggs. We’re also expecting some Cornish Crosses soon, which we’ll raise for meat. Building the chicken tractors for these birds has been a fun project, and we’re looking forward to modifying our coop to accommodate our growing flock.
Socializing Chicks and Dogs
Introducing our dog, Maddie, to the chicks was an important step in ensuring harmony on the homestead. It’s essential that our animals get along and understand their roles. We’re pleased to report that Maddie has taken to her new friends well, and we’re confident that she’ll be a great protector of the flock as they grow.
Preparing the Coop
The coop that was on the property when we purchased it needed some work, but it’s proving to be a solid foundation for our laying hens. We have plans to add tractor tires to the base and build out a full cage for a run, complete with an automatic door. This will allow us to move the coop easily and give the hens fresh ground to forage on each day.
Building and Organizing
Sustainability is a core value of ours, and we’ve been focused on reusing and repurposing materials wherever possible. We’ve been organizing our building materials and planning for future projects, such as our greenhouses and planting areas. It’s a continuous process of improvement and adaptation, but it’s one that brings us closer to our goal of a self-sufficient homestead.
Embracing New Technology
I’ve been working on improving my recording skills with a GoPro to share our journey more effectively on our YouTube channel. It’s a different experience from using professional cameras, but I’m excited about the opportunity to connect with our audience in a new way.
Planting Progress
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, our planting is progressing well. Our potatoes seem to have survived the freeze, and our low tunnels have provided valuable protection for our corn. We’ve learned a lot from this experience, and we’ll be better prepared for future weather events.
Expanding Our Homestead
We have big plans for the future, including setting up an apiary and building soil with wood chips. We’re also starting our orchard with elderberries, blueberries, and apple trees. These projects will not only provide us with food and resources but also contribute to the biodiversity of our homestead.
Looking Forward
As we look ahead, we’re excited about the possibilities. We’re planning to add bees to our homestead, set up camping sites for friends and family, and continue developing our land. There’s always something to do on the homestead, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Spring is a time of hard work and new beginnings, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to share our journey with you. Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or just starting out, we hope our experiences inspire you to pursue your own homesteading dreams. Thank you for joining us on this adventure, and we look forward to sharing more updates in the future!
Hey there, Ryan here from Backroads Homesteading! Today, I’m excited to share our recent experience with a product that’s made a big difference for our beloved dog, Maddie. We’re talking about the Seresto Large Dog Vet-Recommended Flea & Tick Treatment & Prevention Collar for Dogs Over 18 lbs. With 8 months of protection, this collar has been a game-changer in keeping Maddie safe from those pesky fleas and ticks.
As many of you know, Maddie is not just a pet; she’s a part of our family. We love taking her on adventures in the great outdoors, but with that comes the risk of fleas and ticks. That’s why we decided to try out the Seresto collar, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.
In our latest video, we demonstrate how easy it is to open the product and put it on Maddie. The collar is designed for dogs over 18 lbs and provides 8 months of continuous protection against fleas and ticks. It’s vet-recommended, which gave us peace of mind knowing we were using a trusted product.
We do what we can to keep our property free of ticks and bugs by managing habitat and keeping the grass low, but fleas, ticks, and other insects are just part of life out here. We will not spray chemical treatments on our homestead so It’s such a relief to know she’s protected, especially during our outdoor adventures. The collar is also water-resistant, so Maddie can still enjoy her swims without any worries.
If you’re looking for a reliable flea and tick treatment for your furry friend, we highly recommend the Seresto collar. It’s easy to use, long-lasting, and most importantly, effective.
As always, we value transparency with our community. We want to disclose that we are part of the Amazon Associates Program, and this post contains affiliate links. This means that if you decide to purchase the Seresto collar through our link, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support our channel and help us continue to bring you valuable content.
Thanks for tuning in, and if you have any questions or experiences with the Seresto collar, feel free to share them in the comments below. Don’t forget to check out our video to see how easy it is to protect your furry friend from fleas and ticks!
Until next time, keep homesteading and keep growing!
Hey everyone, Ryan here from Backroads Homesteading, and I’m thrilled to share our latest adventure in upgrading our homestead’s infrastructure. Today, I’m diving into how we’ve tackled the daunting task of fencing – a critical project for any homesteader, gardener, rancher, or farmer out there.
Our journey began with the realization that we needed a more efficient, less taxing way to install fences around our property. Like many of you, we started with a manual post pounder, which, while effective, isn’t exactly a friend to your hands or your time. In our search for a better solution, we stumbled upon a game-changing tool that I had to share with you all: the Buckte T Post Driver and Puller.
This innovative system from Bucket Driver, based out of Oklahoma, caught our eye primarily because it didn’t have much in the way of reviews, and we were curious to see if it lived up to its promises. The setup is brilliantly simple yet effective. It attaches to the bucket of a tractor – and with a few adjustments to ensure the base is flat, you’re ready to go. This device not only drives posts into the ground with the tractor’s bucket but also allows for the posts to be pulled out, thanks to a clever mechanism that grips the T-posts securely.
We had some initial concerns about whether our tractor was up to the task, but the Bucket Driver system is designed to work with a wide range of machinery. A minimum of 20-25 horsepower is recommended, which means most tractors, skid steers, and even front-end loaders can handle this system with ease. And if you’re worried about compatibility, Bucket Driver has thought of that too – offering different brackets to accommodate various bucket thicknesses.
One of the most appreciated features of this system is its ability to adjust to the angle of the bucket, ensuring the post remains straight during the driving process. Additionally, the post puller feature is a game-changer for us. It’s an affordable, efficient way to remove old posts or adjust your fencing layout without additional equipment.
During our test run, we found the installation process to be straightforward. The included washers help level the bottom of the device on the bucket, but we found we didn’t need them. The device attaches securely to the tractor’s bucket, and its swivel feature is a real work-saver, accommodating posts facing any direction.
The true test came when we started driving posts into the ground. The recent rain had softened the soil, making our job a bit easier, but the Bucket Driver system proved its worth by significantly reducing the time and effort required to install each post. We spaced our posts about 20 feet apart, mindful of avoiding underground utilities (always call 811 before you dig!).
Another aspect we loved was the ability to repurpose old, slightly bent fence posts. This not only saved us money but also aligned with our commitment to sustainability. The Bucket Driver system allowed us to drive these recycled posts into the ground with ease, breathing new life into materials that would otherwise go to waste.
For those interested, we’ve included affiliate links. These links support our homestead at no extra cost to you. We bought this product at retail price, just like anyone else, and I must say, the investment was worth every penny. Not only does purchasing directly from the manufacturer save money, but you’re also getting a high-quality, American-made product with excellent customer support.
In conclusion, the Bucket Driver and Puller system has been a revelation for us here at Backroads Homesteading. It’s made our fencing project much more manageable, saving us time, labor, and resources. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to install or upgrade their fencing. It’s a stellar example of American ingenuity and manufacturing at its best.
Thanks for joining me in this post. If you found this information helpful, please like, share, and subscribe for more tips and tricks from our homestead to yours. Until next time, this is Ryan, signing off.
Protecting The Homestead
How to protect the homestead.
It’s another beautiful day, and as the sun rises, our thoughts are firmly on the future of our homestead. Our mission is clear: safeguard our fields, our animals, and our dreams. These lands are more than just dirt and grass; they’re the foundation of our livelihood and the promise of a sustainable future.
Protecting our homestead is an undertaking that demands our full attention and dedication. Our commitment to growing food, raising livestock, nurturing bees, worms, and enriching the soil forms the backbone of our daily lives. Yet, without proper protection, all our efforts could be in vain. The presence of predators and the constant challenge of keeping them at bay necessitate a robust defense strategy. It’s a reality that has led us to invest significantly in fencing, a decision not made lightly given its implications in terms of time and financial resources.
Our approach to safeguarding the homestead is multifaceted. We’re experimenting with a variety of tools and technologies, including a solar fence energizer and various types of electric fence setups. Our goal is to find the most effective solutions to protect both our livestock and our gardens. This includes the strategic placement of electric wires and the innovative use of physical barriers to deter deer, known for their tricky depth perception. By staggering fence lines, we aim to create a deterrent that keeps our strong local deer population at bay.
The challenges we face are not small. From managing a herd of 10 to 20 deer to clearing brush and barb wire, every task is a step towards a more secure and productive homestead. Our plans are ambitious, ranging from repurposing land for sheep pastures to relocating chicken coops closer to the farmstead, all in the pursuit of a well-protected agricultural area.
With the arrival of spring signaled by the geese heading north, we’re reminded of the cycles of nature and the importance of preparation. Clearing trees, dealing with underbrush, and setting up electric and barbed fences are all part of our daily rhythm. The introduction of technology, like the battery-operated chainsaw, has made these tasks more manageable, allowing us to efficiently maintain our land.
Beyond the physical work, there’s a significant emphasis on community and relationships. Whether it’s negotiating with neighbors for land use or envisioning agritourism opportunities, we understand that successful homesteading is as much about people as it is about the land. We’re looking forward to hosting interns, engaging with local students, and opening our doors to those curious about the homesteading lifestyle.
Our journey is a testament to the learning process, a constant balance of ambition and practicality. While we may dream big, we’re always ready to adapt, learning from each challenge and opportunity. Whether this homestead remains our forever home or a stepping stone to larger ventures, our commitment to sustainable living, community building, and environmental stewardship remains unwavering.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Your support, whether through watching our videos, sharing our story, or subscribing to our channel, means the world to us. Together, we’re not just protecting a piece of land; we’re nurturing a way of life that respects the earth and fosters a sense of community.
Burning A Fence Line
We tackled phase two of our project: creating a burn line along our fence line. With the help of the Burnomatic – the ultimate torch, we initiated this process about a week ago. We strategically burned a path down the fence line, trimmed the grass short on both sides, and then, as luck would have it, the heavens opened up, drenching the area thoroughly.
The aftermath of the rain was perfect; the grass along our freshly burned line wilted away, leaving a clear path. We then ignited a controlled grass line fire, allowing it to slowly follow the pre-burned path. This method proved to be fuel-efficient, allowing the fire to consume the dead grass at a measured pace.
However, this isn’t a task for the faint-hearted or inexperienced. Controlled burns require a deep understanding of the environment and conditions. For starters, the grass needs to be short, the wind minimal and predictable, and the ground saturated from recent rains. The importance of monitoring the burn cannot be overstated – this is not a set-and-forget situation.
I strongly advise against attempting this without proper experience or guidance. In fact, partnering with knowledgeable folks or involving your local fire department is a wise move. Controlled burns, when done correctly, offer a swift means to clear fence lines but demand respect for the forces at play.
Our goal was to prepare the ground for our upcoming project – installing a seven-strand electrical fence. The burn line ensures that the base of the fence is as close to the ground as possible, ideally within a six-inch margin, to prevent any undergrowth from contacting the fence.
To sum up, burning a fence line is a practical, efficient method to clear vegetation, but it’s essential to approach this method with caution, knowledge, and respect for the potential risks involved. Work safe, and happy homesteading!
