He quit all to build off-grid village, mountain-long Earthship

15 years ago, Dan Schultz sold his 2600-square-foot home in Flint Michigan and bought 160 acres of raw land near the California-Oregon border to start a village shaped by his values.
For $225,000 he bought land packed with wood for lumber, gravity-fed water, and plenty of sunlight for solar and growing. He had to clear road, build a bridge and construct homes, cabins and community spaces and huge gardens and terraced hillside for growing most of their own food.
The Earthship Solarium, which stretches across the hillside nearly the length of a football field, provides year-round, produce and potatoes. Goats chickens and ducks provide milk and eggs.
Schultz, who's an unabashed prepper, says there is plenty of food on the property to survive any kind of disaster scenario. He focused on milk and eggs as ideal survival foods: "You know milk and potatoes are nutritionally complete on their own, you can live forever. The Irish tripled their population with milk and potatoes, right?"
Dan says it costs just $5000 per year to maintain the property. This includes taxes, propane and supplies for building more cabins. His nightly rentals, like the popular hobbit hole, treehouse, a frame, and half moon cabins, pay for any expenses.
Right now there are eight people in his community, but this number fluctuates based on applications. Members don’t pay any fees to live here, they simply help with farm or community chores.
sustainableecovillage.com/
On *faircompanies: faircompanies.com/videos/he-q...

[@kirstendirksen]

We just heard from Dan that his ecovillage was wiped out by the Smith Complex Fires. Here's his video explaining everything and his gofundme link to rebuild kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYutl4GOa7ZkqLM We're so sorry to hear about all the loss. It was a beautiful spot when we visited, and we're so saddened to hear of the loss of animal life, as well as all that they built over 15 years.

[@aalora1]

I'm down in Humboldt and watched this video accidentally a couple weeks ago and knew immediately where you were from the first frame. I'm sooo very sad that his community was burned. I love the trees where I live and it hurts that he has to rebuild from literally the ground up.

[@twinkletoes22221]

OMG !! You were targeted just like I was .. this was no accident. I am soooo sorry.

[@twinkletoes22221]

Kirsten this is happening to many off grid communities including my own home. This is purposeful and the truth isn't being covered

[@redherringbone]

I was halfway through watching this video when I saw this comment and my heart just sank into my stomach. This is terrible.

[@melanieleona2226]

Utterly heartbreaking!! He is a very resourceful and resilient guy. I believe he will find a way to recover. Just makes me ill.

[@bogackX5]

This is CRAZY! I stayed here in late July 2015 via Airbnb while I drove 12,000 miles around the country. I managed to get there even 8 years ago in my Subaru BRZ sportscar. It’s hard to get to but in just the right way! So much has changed. Absolutely crazy it came up on my recommended when I never even shared anything about it! Guess my tiny home obsession has come full circle. Just wow, it’s so cool to see how much it’s grown. So cool

[@Jon-ho5tk]

The internet can read your mind! I bet you were blown away when it popped up! Living that way is enticing, unfortunately my wife and kids wouldn't go for it! BRZ has been around for over 12 years, time fly's.

[@RattledAwakeBooks]

@@Jon-ho5tk everytime i hear that, it makes me want to ask, "have they ever given it a real try?" We all know it takes 3 days or so to untether ourselves and find the pleasure in the quietude - that returning to the noise feels wrong, somehow - and everytime I hear that, i think of what a lucky find: a man who values this lifestyle would be to me. 🤞🤞🤞🤞

[@RattledAwakeBooks]

cool tour huh? what a nive surprise to see how the 'baby' has matured! what's your next adventure?

[@mantralife6620]

I’d love the info to stay there 💕

[@pepperpepperpepper]

@@mantralife6620 It's in the video description.

[@andrewhowie6646]

Love what you do. I'm near the end of my life but seeing people doing good in our world lifts me up so high. Thank you for your contribution to humanity. People forget that we can be a good force in our world.

[@Robodie]

I hope your journey through the end of this life and into whatever may come next is a peaceful one, and filled with love.

[@andrewhowie6646]

@@RobodieAppreciate your response and wanted to let you know I heard you

[@HeavenOnEarthisYou-7777]

♡

[@MRTIMEARLE]

Wishing you courage and love to deal with things!

[@AtomicAtom87]

I enjoy communities like this. Creating not just a sustainable way to live, but hope for others to escape the game and live more in touch with earth and sustainably. I was with a community like this in Nepal. Completely off grid and self sustaining. 🌎

[@mimib6253]

Right on, they are their own kind of grid there

[@avwarrior]

Dan is my chiro and friend and I’ve been blessed to be at this place many times! So sad what happened to his land but so happy to hear how many people from this channel have helped them rebuild since the fire! Thank you Kirsten and crew! You really helped them in a massive way.

[@msmoe8687]

This 58 year old five-generation Oregonian approves thumbs-up heaven on Earth right there IMO

[@observer7418]

yeah, it looks great but if you live pay check to pay check you're not going to be buying property to build a life living simply with the land. This guy was probably some tech guru from silicon valley or something. Clearly he's got plenty of money to spare. I'm not blaming him, good for him. Looks awesome.

[@Stormbrise]

I am second generation Oregonian on my mothers die, and probably at least 50 generation on my dads side. Alsea Native here and Member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz. I miss home, the mountains, the rivers, the trees, and the ocean are calling me. Been stuck over here in the EU since July 2020. I need to go home!

[@mb-3faze]

He's lucky he can do this. But he relies, still, on the rest of the world and the working stiffs to make his life possible. For example, he'll expect the hospital to be there when he breaks his bones and the gas to be available to drive to the supermarket, all the way up to the security services to come to his aid if necessary. Sure - take advantage of the situation if you can.

[@Danman350]

@@mb-3faze I didn't get the feeling that this man, in particular, thinks he's completely cut off from society. If anything, he contributed to it. He built a community, acts as a steward for all the natural areas on his property, reduced the cost of recycling for the local shops by taking whatever materials they had left over, and takes as little as possible. If the largest deficit you cause in your life is whatever it costs to heal you, I wouldn't hold it against you.

[@JonOffgrid]

😮

[@gerry343]

I'm just amazed at how much he has built and developed in just 15 years.

[@lelacalhoun8362]

Absolutely beautiful. I would love to live there, it's Amazing live in a greenhouse, yes please

[@alexandrep4913]

Just 15 years? That's 5 years away from a generation.

[@rzella8022]

He's done the work of 15 guys looks like. Amazing and beautiful. And how can he keep the new people on board with specific chores and his overall vision. Some people can cause division. Sad he's alone. He talked on prepping, but does he have a plan for what if forest fire? Currently that's a threat in almost every forest.

[@I.Am.Nobody]

A vision, some money, ingenuity .. and I can tell he's loving the whole journey. Wish I could do this, but money - as for most - is the missing link. So these members got to pay 5k p/year, what do they do to get that money?

[@rhondamurphy4494]

Right now there are eight people in his community, but this number fluctuates based on applications. Members don’t pay any fees to live here, they simply help with farm or community chores.

[@hereisyourmusic30]

Fresh food, no preservatives. Fresh air, water ..... everything fresh. 😍

[@lacyaubut6751]

Wow! I had the pleasure of staying here with my boyfriend earlier this year in April. We stayed in the hobit house for a few days, it was unforgettable! Everyone we met here was so welcoming and nice. They were more than happy to share their home with us and teach us about their way of life. I’d love to go back again and again!

[@user-gj8mn4ce8d]

Nice to see that he’s not overly flaky as well. Stayed in a few communities like this and it’s the people that make all the difference. Need hard working people that pull their weight to make a go of it

[@advicepirate8673]

You definitely get a lot of maladjusted tyrants trying to run places like this, along with a lot of maladjusted, supremely lazy bullshitters trying to live in them.

[@timmorgan7402]

You are correct, I moved from Georgia to Texas, to a church and ranch That was supposed to be community, but come to find out the guy was getting people's money then kicking them out, it cost me $3,000 for a two-week headache of an adventure

[@wulfclaw4921]

​@@advicepirate8673truer words could not be said !

[@blacklight4460]

That's why communes never work out - bickering is inevitable.

[@Keys879]

@@blacklight4460 Small communities do work. But the larger they get the more differences begin to set in. Everyone must be united by a common goal. It is the glue which holds a community together. This is why there is so much division in large cities for example. Too much 'diversity' can be a bad thing and that's not a comment on race or ethnicity.

[@bob_frazier]

Most people capable enough to create this don't invite Kirsten in to show the world, but thanks for showing us.

[@feelinguru-vywiththepaingu9808]

I would have loved to build something like this when I was in my 20s and 30s. Now I'm 60 and have physical issues. So now I just want to live somewhere like this. I can do a lot, but not this much. I grew up in construction and farming. When I was young, we had 1 acre of planted food all year round, and each set of grandparents had a half acre. I didn't get conventionally grown food until I left my parents' home. Our family business was construction. My grandpa was an agriculture professor. This is right up my alley.

[@mllejessful]

This is so true. I live in Joshua Tree and we have a semi-secret handful of these gems around -- even here in the desert.

[@user-fo2el6jm7n]

@@feelinguru-vywiththepaingu9808 find a younger community and offer your knowledge on how to build and join in.

[@cupbowlspoonforkknif]

​@@feelinguru-vywiththepaingu9808 So many young people can't afford land but are sick of the way things are. If you can get the land, you could definitely get a project like this going. If I were you I'd start gathering like minded people and tackling small projects locally to test character and chemistry. Who knows what opportunities might come your way!

[@soupesoupe]

Why not invite people like Kirsten to inspire the world? It's not like showing off a hole-in-a-wall where there's a possibility of ruining the business. This is private land that you cannot trespass.

[@wanderingmoon9772]

I LOVE his way of thinking about "WORK". Not a word in his vocabulary. 😁😁😁😁

[@user-sd3ds6ve9o]

I just can’t stop smiling reading the comments and watching the video. Dan is a stellar guy. I’m so glad so many people get to see it.

[@huntakilla1234]

This dude built paradise. Thank you so much for sharing this with us

[@daisychain3007]

I wish I could build a house like his.

[@willm5814]

That solarium is a work of art!!!

[@janedoe09]

How Terribly Sad this Beautiful place no longer exists...my heart breaks for this man and all his life efforts to build a paradise on earth for himself and others to thrive. Peace and Healing To All and To The World At Large 💜💜💜

[@margaretstrickland1225]

What happened to it? I've always wanted to live on a land like this, came close once when I lived in a Mormon Polygamist community And it is work, I was younger then, almost 25 years ago. But it was so worth it! So so peaceful! The biggest problem was some of the bickering and judgement from some of the neighbors. But my garden food was so much better than store bought!

[@markusr1308]

@@margaretstrickland1225burned down completely

[@aquaflow1264]

Where is this polygamy place u speak of

[@ashleysmith4470]

This is the future!! Everyone inspired by this don't let that dream die!

[@crowpvpgod4537]

This is my goal and it always will be!!

[@CreekValleyCritters]

This guy is not just incredibly capable, he is also a phenomenal artist. Such a cool video :)

[@nonamenoname661]

Inspired by nature and energised by the beauty of the area he lives in. Lot of hard yards put in, but he proves what can be achieved.

[@davidm1149]

All the work he's done is beautiful. The magic part is that is was done inexpensively.

[@daisychain3007]

​@@nonamenoname661I admire him,but how could he get away with building a bridge there, even in a remote part? I read of many recluses who have had to have their homes demolished because they did not get permission to build them.

[@nonamenoname661]

@@daisychain3007 I thought it was part of an old logging truck road? Presumably, he would have sought permission to reinstate it, given that that he does pay land taxes and that he invites people to stay, that access would have to be made safe and secure to his site.

[@Growmap]

@@daisychain3007 He spent thousands to get it rezoned and get permits. But hopefully as remote as it is there isn't a permit for every little thing. Many people don't realize there are still counties where you can pretty much build what you want on your own land. Sadly, more and more restrictions and fees and permits are continually added most places.

[@TheSoundTownDotCom]

Love the pragmatic combination of permaculture, improving mental health and prepping!

[@brad4231]

I respect the hell out of this. First of all, absolutely gorgeous scenery that has to provide a type of therapeutic effect. And he’s not crazy, I feel it too. Something may not be coming but it never hurts to be self sufficient

[@mapgrrl]

Perhaps it’s the digital money that will dictate how people can spend it and conformity to shots and political ideas.

[@Iam_Saved4_IAM]

The head of this place seems to be accused of sexually abusing a 6 year old boy who was living on site. Everyone is responsible for protecting the most vulnerable. This is a great idea but seems to be lacking any accountability. Feel parents should be warned, and victims should be heard. Nice video though 👌 UPDATE: found several more stories of Dan admitting in a group setting to 'accidentally' touching his girlfriends teenage daughter, among other admissions - THIS IS NOT A GOOD GUY - KEEP YOUR KIDS AWAY!!!!

[@GTICHATTER]

@@Iam_Saved4_IAM wow thanks for sharing this info, do you happen to have links to any of these stories?

[@Iam_Saved4_IAM]

@@GTICHATTER the youtube link is what I started with - then read some other first hand accounts in the comments - some provided evidence of the fraud he left in michigan and had first hand accounts of his 'admissions' in a group setting - he seems to believe he's untouchable in his kingdom, but he won't get away with anything ultimately.

[@fredosinsemilla3896]

@@Iam_Saved4_IAM Real credible links or it didn't happen.

[@TheTruthlady]

A kindred soul. I want to build a tiny house village/community. I bought a much smaller plot of land. It’s still in the planning stages . This community is very inspiring. It definitely gets my 3👍👍👍’s up!

[@kxv210]

Same!

[@TimFrentz]

I'm creating a similar community in Central Texas. This group gives me some great objectives to reach in my first 16 years.

[@alexandrastanford5926]

Interesting. Texas is a challenge!

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

Very cool

[@pattin4015]

I am always impressed with the will of people to create their own environment in your videos. This man is no exception. To be self sufficient for a majority of their food, water and power is beyond what we think is possible. Yet your videos show us that it is, and the satisfaction/reward they provide as a sustainable way of life makes my heart soar with delight...

[@CALFCfan]

My wife and I spent a few nights in the treehouse a couple summers ago. The earthship was still in the earlier stages of construction. Wonderful place. I was devastated to learn of the fire that destroyed the residential roundhouse and the Meeting Hall, etc. I'm so glad to have happened across this video to be able to see the completed earthship 🙏🏻

[@tbrown2302]

People say they’d like to live off the land but don’t realize how much work it takes. This place is impressive. You can live in a small space when you have all the other infrastructure to use.

[@StillYHWHs]

100 % True

[@davidm1149]

I'm sure of that. Much easier for younger people.

[@Anotherclevername20]

I believe he has other crops as well he's stating simply that milk and potatoes have all your essentials to survive

[@tbrown2302]

He lost it all to a horrible fire. There’s a go fund me if anyone is able to spare some money and help him be able to re-build 😞

[@i.n.o.k.]

Was looking for this comment for years. Finally, you say exactly how it is. Thank you for that.

[@cobraki00]

I don’t need a big house. I have this tiny home. Dude turns around and builds a 200ft long earth ship house and other structures that he lives in. Lol

[@Jon-ho5tk]

I thought the same thing too, but it looks like he uses it mainly to grow food in.

[@linedeyon]

Dan has lost his property in the smith river complex fire just the other day. It would be great if we could start a gofundme to help him rebuild when it’s eventually safe to do so. :(

[@aquaflow1264]

Ummmmmm looks fine to meee

[@krisstopher8259]

@@aquaflow1264 that's before the fire

[@MG-iw8xc]

Beautiful community and sustainable living in such a breathtaking environment. I love how laid back, but yet hard work goes into living up there in peace and quit along side nature. Just amazing!

[@ekisnaar]

I started grinding my teeth as I clicked play in expectation to learn what it takes to hippy out like this. And everything turned out to be just reasonable. Reasonably priced, reasonably paranoid. My favorite episode.

[@blueman5924]

@@Underground-Electronic-Music…seems like a reasonable price.👍

[@Starfish2145]

Huh? Weird comment

[@SP-ki5gn]

Nicely put, I agree.

[@lpmoron6258]

@@Underground-Electronic-Music when I first started watching you tube I watched a video with an older man who built a house that was off grid and the city told him to leave it because it was not built to coffee. I thought it was an awesome place. Comments were he had no plastic in his home and the guest house used to be a chicken house. Got any ideas which video this could be?

[@Baraborn]

This was one of my favorite episodes, right up there with the engineer that made his own smart home. Top 5 definitely.

[@cw7368]

same!

[@jakea714]

can you fwd the link to the smart 🏠?

[@rednoterecords198]

Very cool. Currently living in the mountains of North Carolina. Hoping to do some similar things. This has been really informative and I am truly impressed by what this man has done. Congratulations. Peace and blessings to you.

[@landonjackson3064]

I love this place. What a awesome paradise he's built for himself and other people that want to live off grid

[@mimib6253]

I know, I wish he'd have him say where this is presicely

[@landonjackson3064]

@@mimib6253 Me too. I would love to go stay in one of his structures for a weekend. Wonder if he does air bb

[@danafoltin8114]

Dan's ecovillage just burned down.

[@landonjackson3064]

@@danafoltin8114 wtf really ?

[@KristinBerkery]

This was neat to see. My grandmother-in-law retired to a remote part of the Siskiyou near Fort Jones and we'd visit her every two years in the 1990s. It was amazing. We bathed in the river and spent our days hiking. So peaceful. I miss those days because I think it would be so much more restorative now with our crazy plugged-in world.

[@davidm1149]

Yes, the world gets more intense every year. I've never been in the Northwest, but it looks beautiful, and I always loved going to my grandparents (woodsy property) apple orchard every weekend. It preserved my sanity.

[@pamelaflores4129]

This is one of my favorite videos that you have ever done, Kirsten, and you have done so many great videos! This man is leading by example. I have had enough of talkers. This guy is so amazing because he applies himself and knows how to focus on what's important-yet in a light hearted way. He is still so humble, even though he's multi talented and creates so much beauty around him. I lived in a commune during my teenage years, it was not fun or rewarding. I wish my parents had been like this guy, but I'll work with the tools I've been given. You can tell he loves and respects Nature. I just can't say enough good things about the way this man is approaching Life.

[@DeepThinkingGPU]

he's also on tinder

[@pamelaflores4129]

@@DeepThinkingGPU If I could clone myself, I would look him up.

[@excuzza]

Randomly looking for earthship videos. Found this one. Turns out he lives down the road from us and is a victim of the smith fires. Small world. Hope he is doing well.

[@emmadeofsteel]

This was such a wonderful place. I felt such a kinship with this place and this way of living. I am devastated to hear about the fires and very sorry for your loss, Dan. I'm not in a position right now to help like I would want to but I hope there is a time in the future where I could volunteer my services and help to rebuild this little piece of paradise.

[@Mpo65]

What? Do you mean this place just got burnt recently? Your post is 2 weeks ago right? That’s devastating and so sad .

[@joecutro7318]

Another sustainability home run, Kristen. Sustainable not only in function and practicality, but livability, design, contentment, mindfulness and respect. What a kind and grounded man with a simple and powerful project. 👍🏼❤️☮️

[@D-train69]

This guy reminds me of my father he has 6 cabins in Idaho that are off grid as well. He always talks about renting them out but he hasn't yet all 6 cabins are all finished.

[@sofigag]

Is your dad taking reservations anytime soon? I have a Yorkie...would that be an issue?

[@D-train69]

@@sofigag you could be the first one to stay in one of them. They are located in the panhandle of Idaho a little town called Clark Fork about 8 miles from Montana and about 60 miles from Canada. Not sure if that is close to your destination and Yorkies would be just fine I'd imagine. Let me know if that works for you, Thanks.

[@Growmap]

How much extended family does he have? Maybe the 6 cabins are really for 6 particular people or family groups?

[@michellekrueger5122]

This would be interesting to learn more about cabins....have permanent / stable income until our...(husband and wife) last day...artistic couple, stay to ourselves, healthy 48-60 of age.fairly self sufficient..

[@susanlong4282]

I think Dan is brilliant and more than talented with everything he has created. I love this video and will watch it many times!! Thank you!!!

[@patrickrussell1888]

My wife would never consider living like this, but as a kid growing up in the sagebrush, his construction (with a sawmill) created a lavish setting to me. We, unfortunately, have become so urban and culturally constrained by our progress because now in the urban areas we have become restricted by building codes, permits, inspections, utility requirements, construction technique and material availability, etc.. It is enforced by our societal values which here in the US seems to work ok. But urbanity can get overwhelming...hence vacations, getting away from it all, etc. For poor people, urban life can be an overwhelming challenge to survive, to conform. In addition, not everyone can live in Northern California where expectations of how to live are a littte more flexible. For many it can be lonely away from what we are used to. Being on 160 acres in the middle of nowhere is also expensive (need $$ to purchase land, have a vehicle, be a scavenger to get stuff others don't want/need). It requires hard work and not for the faint of heart. Many of his materials were brought in to make it liveable. He was also fortunate to have water and the wood resource. One of my old college professors in Oregon called it quits midway in his career and started his own studio and lifestyle decades ago in Southern Oregon where it isn't as highly regulated. He likes earthen structures (cobb, strawbale, self-sufficiency thru consulting/workshops, etc.). Nevertheless this Northern California estsblishment is a wonderful experience for many! 😊

[@tongotongo3143]

This is basic farming, our ancestors lived like this. My grand grand grandparents lived completely without any form of electricity and and kept cow, pigs, chickens, harvested potatoes, apples, beetroots etc. Lots of everyday work and completely restricted movement like travelling or visiting someone far away. This lifestyle isn’t for everyone at all but it looks very attractive when visiting for two hours or watching on KZbin.

[@msj7872]

Having lived in South Florida for most of my life I come to realize that it only takes a well-placed disaster, live a hurricane, to erase that thin line of our modern way of life that most of us depend on. Going several weeks without electricity (and it is as bad as you can imagine during a South Florida summer) makes you realize how fragile it is.

[@9thGenerationCajun]

Amen I've been through more hurricanes than I can count in coastal Louisiana. Lost a house & everything I own in 2005 hurricane Katrina and hit by a 9ft flash flood in 2016. I'd move to a place like this in a heartbeat if I could.

[@5DNRG]

You have my sympathy.

[@joanlong4183]

​​@@9thGenerationCajunSo sorry! Moved to Louisiana in February, and Katrina was my first Hurricane. Ended up in Patterson, and then came Rita. Stayed about another year after that and decided I was not well off enough to afford all of that evacuating and loss. Took my butt back to Oklahoma.

[@angellanabb3662]

Oh wow...I completely see why He fell in love with that place. It's absolutely mystical and gorgeous. I would definitely live out away from civilization to live off grid in a such beautiful place.

[@redavalaite4645]

So much amazing uplifting energy from this one video! It’s good to know that there are people just like myself, out in this crazy world. Thank you for sharing your creativity and gifts, and showing that with all kinds of “waste” smart man is capable of creating absolutely stunning, purposeful life. Long life and cheers from Florida! ❤

[@RPRosen-ki2fk]

I was entranced in this video, the time went in a blink of an eye. He seems like a positive guy, I did look for negativity or crazy and I couldn't detect any ... everything sounded logical and made sense. On the surface, this seems like it could be a really beautiful community. I'm left with a hundred questions still, the biggest being about the burning ban. I think this is what hippies and communes have evolved into, for our present time period. Thank you Kirsten for sharing the MOST INTERESTING lifestyle stories.

[@sidilicious11]

I spent some wonderful years in this part of the world. It’s gorgeous. Dry in the summer and wild fire prone. The most beautiful place I’ve ever lived and visited. Nice to see how people live as self sustaining as possible.

[@leedart]

I was just thinking about the fires of the west coast. How do you, can there be a way of protecting from that possibility? I wish them all the best and hope many people are inspired.

[@c.m.cordero1772]

@@leedartconsidering its remoteness, the fire crews might not be able to get there or they may just issue evacuation orders and try to assist with that. It’s probably toast. That’s the first thing I thought of when I saw the place. Fire is a natural part of the western ecosystem too. You can challenge nature only so far. I was careful about the location of the house I purchased. I’ve never regretted that. I’ve had to evacuate,but the house has survived so far.

[@markusr1308]

@@leedartyou can and have to do preventive fire work. Unfortunately this entire compound burned down recently.

[@renaulttraficconversion]

Thanks for the video, Kirsten. Nice to see a video on sustainable living using permaculture. I built a large log cabin, about 40 years ago in South Australia and started a half-acre permaculture garden. The soil was poor clay initially but you could see it improve year after year. I no longer own the place but it is still very productive growing vegetables and fruit trees.

[@ecologicaladam7262]

"Just slow down..." is a very good precept in life! An enviable lifestyle...

[@AC-kw4st]

If I was able to financially, I would like to build a homestead like this for myself and family.

[@marshawargo7238]

THIS Is My Heaven! A lot of years passed being able to make a go of it, But if I were younger I'd move here in a minute! This place would be a Great Air B&B!!! Bet he'd be booked for years!🙂🤑He should add a few zip lines!🤔😆

[@mimib6253]

Hats why I love earthen building, earthship type building and the true tiny house movement.... Things are Very affordable once you have either land or a community to join and can start building/living right away, oh sure you may have to live in a tent or RV for a while, unless they have a temporary place that you can sleep in till your dream home is finished

[@ForrestMccroy]

It doesn’t seem to have cost him all that much. Less than an average 3 bedroom suburban home in any major metropolitan area.

[@gd.m.2236]

This guy is really blessed to have this kind of space. He can freely create his own lifestyle, character and personality. The acre of the free!

[@JulietGermanotta]

There should be more places like this. I would totally love to live on this property and the fact that he makes no apologies for being a Prepper really makes me wanna live there. I wish more people would make prepper village like this . I would totally go for it. Please give me any information if you know how to get in contact with any village like this that are looking for people.

[@chloebelle4923]

Agreed. It's interesting that the govt wants us to believe there is something wrong or weird about being prepared and living with nature, as we did for 1000's of years.

[@chloebelle4923]

Also, to find communities like this, look for 'intentional communities' and make sure that they have your same values, of course. Groups like this have been around for many years, some more successful than others.

[@L6FT]

@@chloebelle4923 RIght? :-s It would seem the more localized and self sufficient citizens lived -the more resilient the economy and the safer the society. But then big daddy government would lose it's tax revenue from the 9-5'ers, so kinda shows who's running government.

[@chloebelle4923]

@@L6FT very true. An empowered group of people don't require governance of any kind.

[@iammrpete]

Thank you so much for his segment , Kirsten ❤ God bless him.

[@ciclotan]

Dan's work is stellar: his good will, knowledge and humor (read his website) radiate warmth and kindness in addition to skill and perseverance. Kirsten and Nicolas, again you've made an excellent video, interview, tour and permaculture lesson. Thanks for sharing! I look forward to visiting.

[@Iam_Saved4_IAM]

Website please?

[@charlieosko4151]

F

[@TJWW...studios]

same..thanx..

[@beardmcweird5667]

whats the website

[@Iam_Saved4_IAM]

The head of this place seems to be accused of sexually abusing a 6 year old boy who was living on site. Everyone is responsible for protecting the most vulnerable. This is a great idea but seems to be lacking any accountability. Feel parents should be warned, and victims should be heard. Nice video though 👌 UPDATE: found several more stories of Dan admitting in a group setting to 'accidentally' touching his girlfriends teenage daughter, among other admissions - THIS IS NOT A GOOD GUY - KEEP YOUR KIDS AWAY!!!!

[@RokDAWG1]

I want to have an earthship or something equivalent in the type of home I build. I love that he did so much to make it an amazing little community!

[@gypsy547]

To allow others to come experience this with your community is fantastic

[@mathewerven9]

Great channel for folks who are off grid. It's inspiring and educational seeing how others have approached the tasks that come with it. I watched this video the only thing I could say was. . Unbelievable!! Completely unbelievable. He's seen buying produce in a local Safeway. Also has chiropractor practice in town that's open four days a week. If you talk with a few people who have been in his "community" They would tell a different story than what you heard.. Unbelievable that one Guy could accomplish all that in 15 years.

[@Elsie144k]

@matthwerven Wdy mean “tell a different story “?

[@shellbellbutterfly]

A bit of a cultish theme; having the Hindi statues, amid the gardens, with the odd "meditation" mongers. It's a pity that one thinks of & calls himself "a creator," rather than "a worker" (claiming it's "a four letter word,"), but shortly after, refers to the REALITY of how they ARE "working until about noon." Also, claiming that "mother nature" does ANYTHING is disturbing (our Creator is masculine, not feminine, so He does what He will, not to forget the testing we are given by the demons & Satan (who was given ruling over the UNgodly world, to deceive the masses, who ignore The Creator & His TRUTH for warning, protection, wisdom & Salvation). We have ONE Creator, Savior GOD (YAHWEH/CHRIST/HOLY SPIRIT) & He IS THE One Who's watching EVERYTHING, going on record for The Judgement Day & ONLY those who receive forgiveness from Salvation transformation by FOLLOWING CHRIST will make it out of the ETERNAL Hellfire damnation suffering judgement. We reap what we sow & GOD'S WORD of TRUTH is clear that the wages of sin is death to ETERNAL Hellfire damnation. Blessings in FOLLOWING CHRIST. 🙏🏻👣👣

[@mathewerven9]

@@shellbellbutterfly you should read more than what the Christian's have to say about God. I believed in God out of fear and it's only when I allowed myself not to believe in God is when God came to me allowing me to know. Not believe, know of God's existence. This is why I don't believe in organized religion. I don't ask "what would Jesus do" I learned and act as Jesus taught me to do. Forgive them for they know not what they do...

[@shellbellbutterfly]

@@mathewerven9 What are you suggesting that I'm SUPPOSED to read, aside from GOD'S WORD of TRUTH (which I was reading, when I was SUPERNATURALLY born again, on 10/26/10; John 7:37-38 KJV)? Scripture from GOD'S mouth is EXTREMELY powerful, living food for His people & is FULL of warning, learning, knowledge, understanding FOR wisdom & Salvation. I don't understand your comment/claim. I AM, however, concerned about who you are calling "GOD" because Satan is the god of this world & he can masquerade as an angel of light to deceive many (since he used to be the most glorious of all the angels). CHRIST IS the WORD of GOD, & THE HOLY BIBLE IS HIS MESSAGE, so I'm not sure what you're trying to suggest, contrary to that fact/TRUTH of knowing Him. He certainly doesn't NEED paper or words to manifest (Saul to Paul in the book of Acts; CHRIST just knocked him off of his horse/donkey/camel & had His way with him & offered him Salvation transformation & he wisely repented & agreed to FOLLOW CHRIST). Blessings in FOLLOWING CHRIST. 🙏🏻👣👣

[@ytfp]

You bring us all such wonderful adventures and stories. This one was a breath of fresh air. What a community!

[@bjlyon615]

Let’s not forget that much of what he used to create this community came from elsewhere. Without industry, there would be no granite, tile, glass panes, wood burning stoves, etc. I just hope that those who have achieved off-grid living appreciate the efforts of others whose hard work made this possible.

[@theairinthebranches]

@bjlyon615 from his "About" section of his community's website: "We Are NOT Pure Nor Are We Idealists Here's the rub: It's good to talk about the ideas of permaculture, holistic, organic, alternative, etc., and I like to talk about these notions, value the ideas, and implement them. But we hope to bridge the gap between the old systems and the new (and old) sustainable ones. So let me list my many transgressions of unsustainable impurities for all the starry eyed idealists lest they may not leave emotionally frustrated in disappointment that we did not measure up to their standards. I LOVE to use concrete. It lasts decades, centuries, maybe longer, is maintenance free, all that kind of stuff. We don't eat all organic. More organic every year -- as we provide more of it from our land -- but we still buy groceries and some of it isn't organic We eat meat, at least I do (Dan), and other visitors and residents will surely/possibly eat meat, too. We use money and engage in business for profit, extracting United States Federal Reserve notes or their digital equivalents from the old monetary system and into our credit union account and we buy stuff with it, just like a typical consumer does. And we may even spend it at Wal-Mart We sometimes use toxic chemicals like paint, stain, insulation, even pesticides (not on plants) for infestations and animal health (ticks and fleas). We use fossil fuels like gas and diesel. Chainsaws, tractors, automobiles have a utility and are expeditious. I believe we have little time to prepare for major changes and I have and will use these tools to get ahead. -- On that note I should add that I have become an unabashed prepper of sorts, who strongly suspects that societal collapse is likely, even inevitable, be it economic, environmental, or from war. The ideas of responsible and simple living have not lost their appeal, but preparation for harder, leaner times is a part of my mindset and affect strategies and systems here. There are very few really cool, hip or trendy projects . We are unlikely to design, implement or utilize any new fangled technology or engage in heating water with compost piles. We milk goats, feed our animals, cultivate soil, harvest and process fruits and vegetables. As I am fond of saying, "either all of it is glorious or none of it is glorious." Remember that when you're shoveling shit or milking the goats for the thousandth time. It is my firm belief that permaculture or sustainable living is not exciting at all, and that excitement, highlighted as it is in our culture, is vastly overrated. Permaculture, mostly, is staying in one place. Sustainable is showing up every day, slow and steady, like the tortoise (not the hare), living for health, watching carefully and listening, none of which is contemporaneously cool, trendy, exciting or hip."

[@bjlyon615]

@@theairinthebranches Perhaps it is my perception that needs to change.

[@hotrox2112]

@@bjlyon615 "acceptance" is the first step...i

[@BoomBoomLou]

@26:55 I like the disappearing plant trick there, lol.

[@kiwitexan6022]

I love how the green plant at 26:55 went missing all of a sudden in the next shot! 😇😆 This is a beautiful idea and I love love love the community aspect of it. The "Conversation Pit" is probably my favourite bit! He has put in so much effort and creativity building this. I wouldn't mind staying there myself! Thank you so much for the awesome walkthrough.

[@StillYHWHs]

Don't forget. People have joined him in the efforts. People came and went. He respectfully and righteously mentioned this. That's how it got done in 10 yrs. He also had the knowledge of the most important parts to survive. The best part. He found that land cheap.

[@mimiseeyou]

Look, I knew he was a prepper when he said he wanted to be far away from urban city centers but I KNEW he was a prepper when he said incase of EMP! I’m on the level too and I absolutely love what you have done here friend. Many ideas for my own homestead. Thanks for showing us around!

[@dionysusnow]

Funny thing is the only disaster that they are likely to face is wildfires and he has absolutely no defense for that.

[@GG-qv1ny]

@@dionysusnow and earthquakes

[@markusr1308]

@@dionysusnowway too much vegetation around the buildings, most of the structures burned down in 2023, people focus too much on extremely improbable disasters (EMP) and overlook the very likely ones (wildfires)

[@a.j.r_ball]

Such a beautiful creation. What would the world be like if people just said yes to the dream and no to the corporate system...💯

[@1zanglang]

In my country, the majority of the people live in rural areas, where they have gardens, fruit trees, fields to grow crops, water wells, they raise pigs, cows, geese, ducks, sheeps, goats. Many of them have horses, carriages, donkey and mules. Unfortunately, many of the young people, are hypnotized by the "glamour" of the big cities, and many are leaving the country to end up working on strawberry plantations in Spain, or to wash the shit out the geezers asses in Germany, or do whatever less honourable jobs, or even illegal things. A large percentage of the illegal activities are done by people from the gipsy minority. The percentage of honest hard working gipsies is microscopic. Many of these choose to learn playing an musical instrument, usually an acordion, and make a living by singing at weddings, and other traditional parties. The rest, have, let's say a "genetically programmed" hate for work or anything honest.

[@GodiscomingBhappy]

absolutely impressive... he seems like a kind dude... so much to learn from this guy....I pray to God i shall find a community like this.

[@StillYHWHs]

Me too. Ps: we are in the last days. Red Jefferson is found. Temple soon to be built. 3 is about to happen full force. Yes the Messiah is going to come soon. We are the generation.

[@ildiko1vt]

I really enjoyed this video tour with Dan. I so agree with his philosophy and ways of living. I am so sad to read that there was a fire that destroyed his habitat and community. He built so much there, and it was like paradise. I hope that he can keep going & rebuild. If I was younger, I would be there in a second helping.

[@michaeltaylor8719]

You know, over the years I've investigated several communes. I even spent several days at Stephen Gaskins' commune, The Farm, in Western Tennessee. Although I'm not into the Marxist Communist idea of community, I've always been interested in living in a conscious community where there were no religious or political ideologies driving the narrative, just a desire to live simply and closer to Momma Earth, and let that do the talking. Those are hard to come by in case you didn't know. Everyone has an agenda. This community has really piqued my interest. Thank you so much Kirsten for reminding this old coot that there are communities like this that do exist. Love your channel.

[@snipnasnap]

There are quite a bit of spiritualism symbols throughout the whole place. I did notice that even though it was not talked about. It may not be pushed down anyone’s throats but the owner at least stands for it.

[@AGreaterAmerica]

@@snipnasnap A cult is still a cult, by any other name.

[@hotrox2112]

@@AGreaterAmerica America was built on an idea... also derived from its Mother Land England in a cult like fashion, from the norm. Just look how that's finally coming to its depraved conclusion. The globe is full of various cultures,tribes, languages, & ideologies... find one, try it on, and see what fits you?....

[@Shelly-cp7gj]

I hear you and agree that this was so inspiring and completely in line with my values and experience. I’ve sent off an application!

[@jenniferdufrain3467]

This is my dream♡ I am about 5 hours to the California border from Oregon and would love to experience this. I resonate with this man so much!♡

[@cathyjay2569]

This. Was my favorite tour and living space you’ve ever done and I’ve seen every one multiple times. So sad to hear it burned. I pray he can rise from the ashes like the phoenix!

[@missshroom5512]

Michigan in the house!🥰 Love your lifestyle! Thank you for sharing

[@bloodandwhisky]

Damn, I wish this community had their own youtube channel. I love this.

[@elaineschiefer-feria516]

This is totally AWESOME, love everything about the place and the gentleman that owns it! 🤩🙏🏻

[@enoughisenough4600]

I love this idea. I never thought that you could look around and find a community like this and actually live there..

[@ariannarp6866]

I JUST drove through here! I wish I would’ve seen this video 2 weeks or when it came out!! I would’ve made a detour! Wow!

[@libertyvibrant1835]

Thank you Kirsten. I so enjoy getting to see the creativity of all the wonderful people you present to us. Kudos to you.

[@Johnnysday]

Kirsten does an exceptional job with both Cinema technique and narrative.

[@Johnnysday]

No matter what, Kirsten always delivers the best and most informative videos. She’s very own judge mental and just portrays exactly what the scenario consists of. Just gotta love that girl…

[@ElRayDelRio]

This is an absolute dream of mine! This wonderful human being is living his best life and mother nature recognizes his creative atmosphere for earth's sake. He's almost got a non-existent carbon footprint and that biodiverse ecosystem has attracted all walks of life from all paths. He's built a civilization prepared for CME's, EMP's, knocked down powergrids, cyberattacks WW3, etc...THIS is what we all need to be aware of; tomorrow isn't promised and mother nature ultimately reclaims what's hers!

[@andrewmcintyre8774]

Absolutely love love love this , I totally resonate with Dans whole philosophy about nature and slowing down... It's amazing how much you can achieve when you are not constantly distracted by the "media" , both mainstream and social! Doing what you love and loving what you do is living life on purpose and not just existing.My utmost respect to you Dan and thank you Kirsten for this glimpse of the way we should be existing. IMHO

[@artzinrezidenc]

Thank you for your continuing commitment investigating strange and wondrous habitats, always inspirational to see!

[@davidwolfe7777]

You always find the most interesting content to publish. Way to go!!!

[@abercul7698]

He is freaking beautiful. Never once in all my (45f) years have I watched a man walk and thought "DANG". Good Lord Honey! I live on the south east coast of NC and love nothing more than outside & dirt. Not potted or deco gardens but dirt and trees.

[@blubird1601]

Dan Shultz is Brilliant,compassionate and A WSOME. WOW!

[@Jagueyes1]

In a hundred years MOST people couldn't do even a fraction of what this incredible man has accomplished in only 15! A world filled with people of this caliber could be a paradise.

[@ec9833]

There’s a lot that goes into deconstructing human nature & creating monsters in its place.

[@Jagueyes1]

@@ec9833 By who?

[@blacklight4460]

Oh bull!

[@ec9833]

@@Jagueyes1 just…things like people not having skills that would have them far more self sufficient…plenty of humans could learn to do these things. It’s not that they’re incapable or lazy. There’s a lot that goes into where ppl are at today and there’s this ever heightening interest in “going back” or becoming more self sufficient. Little Timmy didn’t grow up to like computers & tech or whatever because the majority of Timmy’s were given the opportunities for other skills & said, “sppft. Get that shit out of my face, DAD!”. I can tie my ideas here to say, codes & restrictions on land and building dwellings to live in. I can tie them to the economy & higher education…true freedom to become educated in whatever & go and do great things in whatever ways. We have barriers to innumerable things we’d otherwise find thriving in.

[@lisaMESRB]

Excellent discovery. Thank you for your brilliant mini “documentaries” all of these magical and often stunning dwellings. The presentation is always respectful, inquisitive, and complimentary of every person you interview. I’d love make my way there and be his 5th guest.

[@wodabrzozowa2268]

I have an idea that maybe someone likes Watering plants with sprinkle systems use a lot of water because half of the water vaporized in contact with the hot surface It is better to use Drip irrigation. You will save water and plants will be happier because all water will soaks into the ground Greetings from Poland

[@epictaters3738]

Just so's ya know. The Pacific Northwest is a rain forest. People sometimes don't think of it that way because it's cold there (1. to a Southern Californian; 2. it's 95 degrees there now but it *gets* cold there). What they're trying to do is stop their toes from molding.

[@helenrichards7866]

We are Tasmanian and love your beautiful trees and river. We chose Tasmania probably for similar reasons…you have given me so many great ideas.

[@KE-ew1ub]

I just can't fathom how he accomplished so much in such a short time, it's mind boggling. All of the incredible mosaics alone would take me a year at least. And milling the lumber. How does someone do all that? I do wonder about fire danger and also being so far from a hospital if you had an emergency.

[@mrfishypep]

It's a beautiful place...but yeah, living through all the wildfires here makes me think it's likely to be burned. And they're so remote I can't imagine much firefighting will reach them.

[@NiaLaLa_V]

@@mrfishypep That is why I am voting for republicans from now on. Democrats will never prevent fires because the checks they get from the government during a declared disaster are too big to pass up. It is sick. There are multiple studies on it all based in california. Your engineers developed effective, cheap ways to prevent fire 20+ years ago and your corrupt democrat politicians keep refusing to use them.

[@Ohpeaches87]

All the wood / fire wood he harvested will prevent forest fires, thinning also makes the ecosystem much healthier. Over the past 20 years the US has cut almost all forest budget and redirected the the funds for social programs. Thats why alot of forest fires happen b/c of government mismanagement.

[@StillYHWHs]

I would much rather die happy. Not making it to the hospital and live in a good life. Then to live next door to a hospital and have everything so hectic and miserable. Anyday.

[@danafoltin8114]

Dan's ecovillage just burned down.

[@TammyLeeW]

This is great! One of my friends and his son wants to move to a piece of land that they want to create a life on. This video was sent to him for inspiration and encouragement. I love it.

[@_lslc]

What a brilliant and hard working man!!!❤

[@runningonemptyfosure3917]

Our entire family would love this, my uncle built his own 2 story log cabin, I built my own house boat

[@WiseBrew22]

Livin The Dream! What an amazing array of construction and architectural design.. So Beautiful!

[@MudRange]

I’m really impressed how good he is building all of it!! This is my dream!! Live off the grid!!! Thank you for making this video!! 🙏🏻

[@pear7554]

There is a a dead mouse in your acorn container. I love your green house, water system, and ways to get supplies for almost free.

[@genesisthepoet815]

He was so chill and gracious during the tour. I’ve dreamed for years to own my own land + build a tiny house village for my family ❤ His property is beautiful

[@midwestribeye7820]

What a beautiful life. Nature, hard work, real food, like-minded people.❤

[@teleriferchnyfain]

We called this a commune in my day (60s/70s)🤗 Very groovy 👍🏻

[@cjreed9443]

It hit more than a nerve...it hit my heart and soul and i cried but not from sadness. I cried because it dawned on me how much God means to me, how much i love him. How beautifully intricate God made each of us and how Gods spirit is within us all and if we rely on him as he has told us to do then we have nothing to fear. No weapon formed against us shall prosper... Thank you for sharing this with us. I know i needed the word that man spoke in the video.

[@mercator79]

Great video. He mentioned slowing down, but I watched it at 2x. Grabbing a nap in the tree house and then reading books after a morning creating sounds good though. Living his best life is all anyone can hope for.

[@inthechairwithcloochy8102]

Love LOVE this video. Dan is fantastic and so too is the haven he has created!! Just beautiful. Love from Ireland

[@CeruleanSky1111]

Hard, natural, good living. It takes a certain person to be able to live like this. Kudos to this very intelligent and creative gentleman. He is living his passions.

[@christinepierson1861]

Lovely! It would be worth another video to showcase the artwork in more detail. Would like to visit!

[@a.d.morton4624]

He's my hero 😀♥️