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You can find their sites at the links below:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thisholmesteadlife?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
- Website: www.holmesteadprovisions.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083861806109&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Links to the books and sites discussed in the podcast:
- Barn Geek, where you can buy plans and have Parker mill the lumber kit. https://barngeek.com/
- Ray Archuleta, Soil Health Academy- https://soilhealthacademy.org/
- Polyface Intensive Discovery Seminars – https://polyfacefarms.com/events/#:~:text=Polyface%20Intensive%20Discovery%20Seminars&text=This%20is%20a%20hands%20on,sweet%20fellowship%20and%20intensive%20information.
- Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink – https://amzn.to/3OvgZZk
- When Weeds Talk by Jay L. McCaman- https://amzn.to/3OCF68j
- Weeds-Guardians of the Soil by Joseph A. Cocannouer- https://amzn.to/3YxaXMt
- Richard Perkins- His book- https://amzn.to/3KG8NnP
- Richard Perkins- YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@regenerativeagriculture
Listen On YouTube
Introduction to Parker and Lauren Holmes
The Genesis of Homestead Provisions
From Suburban Life to Homesteading
Lauren shares her transition from city living to embracing homesteading, highlighting the significant lifestyle change. Parker recounts his upbringing in Cadillac, Michigan, where his early experiences with gardening and canning laid the foundation for his future in homesteading.
Pathway to Sustainable Farming
Health Challenges Lead to a New Direction
Parker and Lauren discuss how personal health challenges within their social circle led them to explore the impact of diet and Whole Foods. This sparked their interest in where food comes from, steering them towards sustainable farming practices.
Educational Journey and Polyface Farm Influence
Parker talks about his initial educational pursuit at MSU in agriculture technology and how it conflicted with his growing interest in no-till, organic, and regenerative agriculture. This eventually led him to an apprenticeship at Polyface Farm under Joel Salatin, profoundly shaping their approach to farming.
Homestead Provisions: A Diverse Farming Endeavor
Exploring Various Aspects of Farming
The Holmes detail their homestead activities in Central Michigan. They raise pigs, broiler chickens, laying hens, and sheep on their 50-acre property. They also operate a portable sawmill, offering custom lumber services.
Incorporating Sawmill Services
Parker’s background in logging and experience at Polyface Farm inspired him to include sawmill services in their business. They provide custom lumber milling, including unique offerings like cabin kits.
Learning and Applying Efficient Farming Practices
Embracing Efficiency and Leadership Skills
Parker emphasizes the importance of efficient practices learned at Polyface Farm, such as moving broiler shelters quickly and butchering chickens efficiently. Leadership skills gained during his apprenticeship have also played a crucial role in managing their homestead.
Implementing Grass-Fed Genetics and Pasture Improvement
The Holmes discuss their approach to raising grass-fed animals, focusing on breeds with grass-fed genetics for better adaptation to pasture-based diets. They also share their methods for improving pasture quality, including cover cropping and using compost.
Future Plans and Homesteading Philosophy
Expanding Animal Varieties and Farm Offerings
While they currently focus on specific livestock, the couple is open to adding more animals like dairy cows and beef cattle in the future. They also consider offering a wider range of farm products, including vegetables and fruit.
Emphasizing Learning and Adaptation
The Holmes highlight the importance of learning from failures and adapting to new challenges in homesteading. They encourage aspiring homesteaders to embrace experimentation and work in harmony with nature.
