Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Other Stuff

We live in the Ring of Fire so these events have to be expected. The quake was a 7.8 and fortunately the tsunami never materialized. We are up on a ridge above town and for some reason did not feel the quake. Since we are at about 1300 ft altitude there is also no tsunami risk for us but the Spit is another story. I’m sure everyone in town was relieved when the tsunami threat was called off.

BCS & Implements

We have now had a chance to use the tractor and three of the implements. First impressions are all thumbs up. The tractor has all the power it needs. Our land is covered with fireweed fields. Fireweed is a spectacular plant that starts off hot pink when it blooms and then slowly morphs into a fiery orange. Old Alaskan Sourdoughs used to start the countdown to winter based on the first fireweed bloom.

While we love the fireweed, it does create a heavy root mat across the topsoil. We flailed some planting areas first and then plowed. The plowing was some work due to the root mat but the BCS was a life saver. Can’t imagine even creating a small bed by hand much less 50′ beds.The tractor and all the implements are double duty!

One accessory that we ordered with the tractor was a utility cart. I wasn’t sure what to expect but wanted something to cart around compost and logs. It comes with a seat, drop down rear gate, and can tilt up to dump contents. It’s sturdy and will come in handy.

NRCS Comments

We have a NRCS representative that has been working with us as a part of the high tunnel program. They have been helpful over and beyond the call of duty. They also embrace all the latest no till technology: use proper crop rotation, use a mix of cover crops, and always keep the soil covered with live roots to promote microbial health. We have sent in soil samples and are waiting for the results to determine what amendments we need to add to the soil. There is a good publication regarding cover crops that can be downloaded for free. Check out Managing Cover Crops Profitably.

Be well & green dreams!