Southwest Virginia Alternative Living Expo

Those interested in off-grid lifestyles, sustainable building techniques, and homesteading skills will want to mark their calendars for Saturday, May 31. That's when Ferrum Park will host the inaugural Southwest Virginia Alternative Living Expo, a day-long event aimed at showcasing practical, independent ways to live and thrive.

All proceeds help support the Ferrum Park project!

Running from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the expo's theme - "Live Your Own Way" - captures the spirit of the event. Attendees will explore a wide range of topics, including building with natural materials, bus conversions, homesteading, preparedness, renewable energy, and more.

The schedule includes a roster of expert speakers and hands-on demonstrations. Among the featured presenters are:
- Joshua Dusci of Virginia State University, presenting on DIY Aquaponics
- Mark Hanson of REEVA, covering DIY Solar Installation
- Scott McStacy, on building with hempcrete
- Jim Bordwine, "The Salt Maker," demonstrating how to find and distill salt
- Sahara Hetland of Raresight Farm, on heirloom seed saving
- Nate Miller of Simply Sustainable, on edible native landscaping
- Stephen Kaplan of Kaplan Farms, offering guidance on foraging edible mushrooms
- Daniel Edwards, presenting on compressed earth block construction

Practical skill demonstrations will include DIY chicken processing by Bill Champney, ammunition reloading with Jacob Raven, and mushroom log farming led by Stacy Young. Visitors can also learn about cordwood building from Winona and Donnie Chittum, or delve into beginner beekeeping with Jarret Barksdale of The B-Hive Homestead.

Over 40 vendors are expected, offering tools, supplies, and services related to off-grid power, sustainable living, and homesteading.
Tickets are available for $20 in advance or $25 at the gate. Admission is free for youth 17 and under. For tickets and more information, visit SWVAL.com.

Whether you're a seasoned homesteader or just beginning to explore resilient living, the Southwest Virginia Alternative Living Expo promises a full day of learning, inspiration, and community connection.

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Category: Community