A desire to learn about homesteading has led a Salem resident to create the Backyard Homesteading Expo that will be held this Saturday both outside and inside ATVs and More at 1307 West Main in Salem. The event will run from 9 am to 4:30 pm. All classes and activities are free.
Michelle Barbee says there will be over 30 vendors and presentation on multiple topics.
“I was interested in learning more about gardening and keeping animals and caring for a pond I have on my property. I wasn’t getting it done on my own and I thought I needed something to motivate me and I’ve made enough connections with these folks that it seemed like time to do it.”
The inside classroom includes a presentation on Poultry Care at 9 am, Pond Care at 10:30 am (bring pond weeds you are having trouble with for identification and ways to control), Soap Making at 11:30 am, Sheep Husbandry at 12:30 pm, Installing solar at 1:15 pm, Beekeeping at 2:15 pm, and Baking with Sourdough at 3 pm.
Barbee says there will be some special presentations on the outside stage beginning at ten am.
“We have some actual homesteaders who will join us from out of town. They will be here at 10:00. Jared and Whitney Westbrook will be talking about Homesteading 101. They are a small family, sold their in-town home, moved to the country a couple of years ago and they are making a go of homesteading. And we have a meat processor coming who will meet farmers and ranchers who need meat processing help.”
From noon to three Luke Purcell and Shane Lother will provide live music from the stage. There will also be four food trucks available to purchase food.
