Pj Dyck

Hi all. Just found this really old thread on Manitoba. Originally from BC, I’ve been here about 9 years. But missing a milder climate and longer growing season, the mountains etc. So... I’ve been checking out cheap land in South east Arizona and thinking about pulling the trigger on 4+ acres. It turns out that in Cochise county you CAN build alternative housing (nonpermitted) with some minor restrictions. I’ve really become entranced by both Hempcrete and earthbag building and am jonesing to take a course or 2 on the basic methods. Anyone else in MB interested in these building methods or with some experience? The reason I ask is I’m trying to network with some fellow northerners who want to learn more about this and want building experience. Yes, it means a week (or so) in Southern AZ getting really dirty!
So as yet im wide open to finding my way in both the design and construction, but would like to get to know others who might be interested in this experience in the future (say next winter...baring any interruptions via the universe).
Send me a line or 5 if you find this interesting or want any questions answered. I’ll do my best! 👍

I’m hoping to pick up some land in south AZ and need to pick up skills to prep for a possible build. I’m interested in both Hempcrete as well as earthbag construction. The workshops seem really limited in Canada but is anyone personally able to recommend training either here or even US (2 week max).
BTW I’m a 50 plus female so my physical ability may be not what it used to be but I can at least get a comprehensive BG in the training I hope! Thanks!

Jason Reiman wrote:

Rusty Empire wrote:

Jason Reiman wrote:

Rusty Empire wrote:

Jason Reiman wrote:We will be building a superadobe home in Pearce, AZ beginning soon (next couple months or so). We plan to start with a simple small structure based on training from CalEarth, which will be used for storage/utility. From there, water storage tanks and then main home. If you'd like hands-on experience, we'd love the help!

Jason. I’m looking at land around Pearce area /Cochise and was wondering if I could pick your brain for info??!

Sure! Happy to help.

So how do you like Pearce so far as a community? I know they allow non traditional building on over 4 acres (hallelujah 😹) so I’m leaning towards the area. I’m also interested in areas around Sierra vista, green valley, and Bisbee. Any feedback/advice/thoughts would be so awesome!

I sort of fell in love with the area a few years ago. Everyone seems nice. It's Cochise County - so still with the Owner Builder Opt Out (OBOO) provision for building/inspections. You'll want to make sure the property you choose is properly zoned (RU4 and some others). A lot of the parcels available in the area are NOT available to work under the OBOO. We almost purchased a property that was not zoned appropriately and would have either had to scrap our building ideas or go through the regular permitting/inspection processes. I'm not opposed to that as I feel the regulations exist to help protect people in general - but if you do your homework and work safe and smart - the OBOO is quite awesome. We're just getting started on all this - overall rural Cochise County, in general, seems like a great community of like-minded people trying to do right by the land, wildlife and people around them.

Can you speak at all on your preferred towns in the region? For vibe, amenities, etc.

Jason Reiman wrote:

Rusty Empire wrote:

Jason Reiman wrote:We will be building a superadobe home in Pearce, AZ beginning soon (next couple months or so). We plan to start with a simple small structure based on training from CalEarth, which will be used for storage/utility. From there, water storage tanks and then main home. If you'd like hands-on experience, we'd love the help!

Jason. I’m looking at land around Pearce area /Cochise and was wondering if I could pick your brain for info??!

Sure! Happy to help.

So how do you like Pearce so far as a community? I know they allow non traditional building on over 4 acres (hallelujah 😹) so I’m leaning towards the area. I’m also interested in areas around Sierra vista, green valley, and Bisbee. Any feedback/advice/thoughts would be so awesome!

Monica, just checking in on your venture. Did you end up buying yet?
The reason I ask is I’m also considering some areas of Cochise. Not too far from a town such as Sierra visita or similar tho, as it’s too difficult to travel those distances and also just to get help with a build.
I’d love to get an update!? TIA

Jason Reiman wrote:We will be building a superadobe home in Pearce, AZ beginning soon (next couple months or so). We plan to start with a simple small structure based on training from CalEarth, which will be used for storage/utility. From there, water storage tanks and then main home. If you'd like hands-on experience, we'd love the help!

Jason. I’m looking at land around Pearce area /Cochise and was wondering if I could pick your brain for info??!

Kim regarding Coshise county...what are your thoughts on the areas around Pearce? Or Sierra Vista? Or green valley areas? Where would you recommend to be closer to services and stuff, but in a safer area also? Many thanks!

I’ll have to look into that. I know things are changing constantly tho. It’s too bad there is not some sort of data base with up to date info that made this info more accessible!