Playing in the Yard on Bailey Bear Ridge
Here are some resources we have found particularly useful.
Another useful member of the family, George
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In the process of preparing for this project, I have not only asked a lot of questions, but I have read a number of books. Also, there are a few sites that I have frequented on various subjects. If you are embarking on a project like ours, this list may provide a few resources that can help.
The items listed here are quite an eclectic selection designed to fit my needs. Don't expect everything here to 'fit'. I have found useful info in some odd places. |
On May 16 and 17, 2009 we will be attending the Davis Caves earth fest in central Illinois. Once again I get to ask questions and see examples of what we are doing.
Looking through their web site, they seem to specialize in building Earth Sheltered and Underground homes. This will be the first time I have had the opportunity to visit with someone on this level. I am really excited about it!
Added May 20, 2009 - The Earth Fest was great. We toured all of the 7 homes offered for display. that included one that was just in the process of getting poured between the spring rain storms. We are hoping that Marty Davis will be consulting with us on our home. |
Model Home - Davis Caves
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In time, I plan to build a Tracking Solar concentrator on our property. It will be mounted on the flat roof of our planned Mediterranean style square bell tower. The design comes from Wayne Roderick and can be seen at his site by clicking here. His concentrator is 13 feet in diameter and I only plan to make mine 8 feet in diameter.
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By way of experimenting, I set up a small satelite dish by gluing aluminum foil to it and using the stem to hold a thermometer and a block of wood in place. I got about 450 degrees on the thermometer and the block of wood with a leaf in place produced flames about 2 inches long. The wind was blowing pretty hard that day and the sun had some high whispy clouds unfront of it most of the time.
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