Greetings from ID

Hello everyone. I've been reading about permaculture for years. It all started when I questioned why a simple pond needs to be loaded with mechanical devices and chemicals just to function without turning into a cesspool.
I have since gotten quiet a few books on various subjects (Have not bit the bullet for the design course book yet) including Gaia's Garden and both Masanobu Fukuoka's books. I have come to realize that reading about it does nothing. I need to get on the land and actually put into practice all of this knowledge. This has been the brick wall for me as I am currently renting and have really taken it as far as the land lord has allowed me (HA not very far) and am now seeking employment elsewhere so I may buy enough land that I can actually (barely) afford.

I am currently a Machinist after complete an associates degree. While I am debt free, this doesn't seem to help me for any loan as I have no real credit history to speak off after avoiding any of the debt economy pitfalls. Anyway as i said, I am attempting to find employment in Northern Idaho right now as I find the ecology more agreeable. I have found land prices here to be a bit more reasonable in parts that I hope will finally let me break through this slog.  

I do not have any hard plans on what to do after I am on a lot, that seems to vary wildly by location and opportunities already present. I don't plan to give up Machining, but will get a few machines in time so that once I am able to self employ I will have a more diverse income. While I have brainstormed things to grow and raise it will of course require time to establish, time to make connections, and time to learn how to do it correctly.

The lands I've been looking at moving into have been underwhelming. Overpriced and often deceptively labeled. 5 acre lot but they fail to mention at least 1/4 of that is easements for a pair of roads, or mountainside at a possibly unreasonable slope. But I shall persevere until i find the right place, or the land market bubble finally implodes.

The great thing about permaculture is that you will find ways to use and improve every inch of land you own. Someone somewhere has found a way to manipulate or grow something beneficial on that slope, along that road, or whatever challenges your eventual property may present. But of course go for the best you can get and what you want!

I would suggest start looking at basic "universal" permaculture plan layouts, and some of the different plants that would grow well in those plans' zones in your area. Then start growing your collection of seeds and potted plants (if you can/if you haven't already).

Any head-start on your plans before you have you're property will help you, even if your plans change.

When you have your property and have your plans and plants, your plans are going to change. You will eventually rip things out and move things around. You will make mistakes. It's all a learning experience and you will gain knowledge along the way.

Good luck!

Blaine, welcome to Permies! I think a lot of us can relate to what you're experiencing right now. Trying to find a piece of land on which to build your dream is often a daunting task. But you've joined a great community here, with members at different stages of the journey. I know just reading about permaculture isn't as fulfilling as doing permaculture, but you're establishing a knowledge base that will serve you well when you finally do make your start.

Hi Blaine,

Welcome to the area! I'm in NE WA and just bought land this year. I hope you find yours soon! If you can't wait to get to work, maybe consider the situations that let you live and work on someone's land in exchange for helping out x hours/week, like WWOOF or Workaway. Some of these are really flexible, some will feed you, and most importantly, some provide space for your own projects. I had several irons in the fire last year when I was unemployed and desperate to grow things.

Best!

Heather