MOTHER EARTH NEWS magazine is the Original Guide to Living Wisely. Launched in 1970, each bimonthly issue features practical and money-saving information on cutting energy costs; using renewable energy; organic gardening; green home building and remodeling; fun do-it-yourself projects; and conscientious, self-sufficient lifestyles
50 Years and Counting
MOTHER EARTH NEWS
EDITORS’ PICK
Dear MOTHER
Thinking (and Living) Independently
States Set 100% Clean Energy Targets • As polluting fossil fuels become more scarce and renewables become more cost competitive, a number of U.S. states, districts, and territories have taken a localized approach toward a sustainable energy future by decarbonizing their energy supplies ahead of federal mandates.
Soil to Sanctuary
50 Years of MOTHER EARTH NEWS • Joel reflects on what’s changed, and what hasn’t, over the past half-century.
Them That’s Doin’ • It’s MOTHER’S 50th anniversary! To celebrate, we’ve revived Report From Them That’s Doin’, a department featuring homesteaders discussing what they’ve been up to. We want to know what’s captured your interest too. Have you tried a new recipe or put together a project you’re proud of? Been inspired by a new mentor or tested new equipment? Tell us at Letters@MotherEarthNews.com. In the meantime, here’s what we’ve been doin’.
Slow and Steady • From breaking ground to settling down, a Wisconsin couple shares their timeline for building a timber frame cordwood home, bit by bit.
The State of Bees in the United States • The true cause of declining bees is hidden in our soil, and it’s up to all of us to take action.
Classic Ciabatta • From poolish to plate, this versatile bread is as forgiving as it is flavorful.
Even Better Bread
Make a Stone Age Stick Bow • Learn how to turn a simple stave into a bow designed perfectly for your shooting style and preferences.
Basic Techniques for Shaping Stone by Hand • Rock your hardscaping projects by learning how to use the right tools for the job.
Gardening
For the Kids
Potato Growing 5 Ways • Results of this study’s detailed trials will help you choose the best potato-growing method for your garden plot.
A Mollusk Proposal • Meet the farmer who’s blazing a snail trail in American food culture.
Escargot from Your Own Backyard • Your backyard is full of tasty edible snails. Here’s how to collect, house, and prepare them for dinner.
Choose Life Grow Young with HGH
The Art of Selling Homestead Products • Make sure you’re earning back the value of your products with solid sales and display strategies.
Dog Kennel Chicken Tractor • This mobile pen is easy to assemble and move, and sturdy enough to keep your flock well-protected.
Build Backyard Habitat for Barn Owls • How can I attract barn owls to my backyard?
A Can for All Reasons
Photos from the Field