Our Earthbag Root Cellar Fails | Addressing the Mud Issue

We made the tough decision to deconstruct our earthbag root cellar that we built just one year ago. While burying the remains, we also take the opportunity to spread 40 yards of gravel around the property to decrease the mud come next spring thaw and increase the area we have to plow snow.
The root cellar structure worked wonderfully while it lasted to store the majority of our food through the winter but began showing signs of buckling with the heavy rains, frost, and the high water table in our area early this summer. We considered several options to replace the structure but came to no good conclusion and opted to end our ambitions here. We hope to find a solution for our food storage in the future but in the meantime we can be appreciative for what we were able to take away from this experience.
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Eric & Arielle Illia
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[@VagabondAnne]

My Grandma called it "tuition". Yes, it was expensive in time and effort and materials, but you learned a lot in the University of Life. And smartypants that you are, you shared the experience with others so we can learn too, and skip paying that tuition. That's called "paying it forward". Hope you find some nice folks in your area who have some workable solutions.

[@dinasyoyos6384]

We can all learn from each other

[@desertheavens]

@@acdeldel2201 She means it was the cost of her education in that area. So yes, "tuition" is fitting.

[@lakepostell6912]

Lifes ways! Some learn, and prosper.

[@genesnyder2985]

@@acdeldel2201 nope tuition is a good discription

[@ccho907]

Also they are hopefully ballin from KZbin.

[@MrEdwardhartmann]

My stepfather, living on top of a small mountain in Arkansas, decided to build an experimental above ground root cellar. His land was solid bedrock just 6 inched below the dirt, so there was no chance of digging a cellar. Unfortunately, he is no longer alive, so I can't talk to him about it. But he acquired four 4x8 foot sheets of thick styrofoam (I think it was 8") and he just stood them up to make an 8 foot tall, 4x4 box, and cut a small door in one panel. Then he wrapped the inside and outside with galvanized chicken wire and covered all of it with stucco. There was no support structure at all - just foam and stucco. He added a pitched roof and more insulation on top, and it worked great. And apparently, it was plenty strong because a tornado took down his house and garage but the root cellar which was only 10 feet from the house made it through untouched.

[@sydneysimon4999]

I was considering a stucco or waterproof cement wall and this really helps! Thank you for sharing what you know

[@kavabean]

Sorry the root cellar didn't work out. Hope you guys don't get discouraged. Most people are stuck in front of screens. You're out there doing it. Keep it up. You're inspiring others to think about a better life.

[@DoctorSuezz]

Such a positive comment!! I love people like you!! ♡♡♡

[@jforozco12]

it seems our generation is stuck in front of a screen, so fucking true, at least for me and lots of my people.

[@TheresaPowers]

you don't know what most people are doing.

[@ronalsohefner8814]

@@TheresaPowers He knows what you're doing.

[@071619571]

Impressed with you guys sharing things that do not work! This kind of realness is why so many people love your channel. Cant wait to hear what you do next year. Would love it if you would film your planning discussions/plans. Thank you.

[@lilaccottage5885]

Thank you for sharing the things that don’t work out. A lot of people would of glossed right over that!

[@faithrada]

One thing that makes these guys so great is that they do all the hard work ... while we reap the benefit of knowledge. Its always about trial and error. Maybe look at it this way... we're in a drought where we are... I'd gladly trade "issues". 😳

[@jtfritchie]

I have to agree. While I’m so sorry that you’ve put in all that work, it’s really helpful that everyone sees the things that don’t work out too. Thank you for sharing all of it with us.

[@glengillis7775]

Sorry for your loss. That was a major labour and financial investment. You might try getting a smaller sea can and super insulating it with spray foam or hard foam panels but it would be expensive as he'll to do. On a positive note. Eric did you get a tractor??? Another thing is you had a chance to snowmobile around your yard. Good day. LOL. We are all here for you guys if you need anything. Maybe we can help in one way or another. $$$. Love your positive attitude and go forwards approach with life's little hickups. Looking forward to your next projects. Down here in Alberta we have had a similar summer. Rain and rain. We just had a week of heat for the first time. Good luck. Great video as always. Good music selection. Keep smiling. Eric enjoy your tractor

[@TheLoxxxton]

Yup agree

[@chris3m98]

@@glengillis7775 Looks like a rental???

[@kristimaret9677]

This breaks my heart. Y'all put so much blood, sweat and tears into the root cellar.

[@Hapharzardly]

"When you lose, don't lose the lesson." Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@fairbanj]

Awwww I think we need a moment of silence. That thing was so cool.

[@elkhntr4evr421]

My first episode was watching you two building this root cellar! I understand why you’re burying it, just hurts watching because you two worked so hard at putting it in! Then all the thought that went into the shelving! When I first started watching, I was like who is this crazy couple, that young lady in sandals using a shovel, that young man with a pistol strapped to his side working right along side his gal? Then I kept watching and you two became part of my family, your trials and tribulations, each episode is great and I will continue to enjoy them as long as you two keep shooting them. I wish it would have lasted, but Your right, just continue to learn and grow!

[@lalalabuschagne2333]

I agree with everything you say. I feel the same way

[@ginare2]

Me too! I was in awe of the process of building that root cellar. This is heartbreaking!

[@aprilcarl2835]

Same - love you guys - keep on please. Praying your next cellar will work perfect. I really like the comment about how his grandpa built the styrofoam cellar that lasted through the hurricane.

[@jalenejohnson8484]

I haven’t read all 1.7K comments but I’ve read several and none have mentioned any kudos for chopping up all that wood! Way to go! I was super bummed about the root cellar and the next thing I see is the new wood shed capable of housing 8 cords of wood over flowing with obviously way more than that. Before you said a thing, Eric, I was already giggling a little. “Of course they have more than 8…. They are the wonder twins!” 😉🥰

[@spkgrl]

That sucks. I was worried about the root cellar when we hadn’t got an update on it yet. You guys are such hard workers and I’m sure it’s a blow. Sending good vibes your way.

[@patriciaabell9393]

I'm sure sorry that the root cellar didn't work out! Will the metal storage unit work for the canned food? Then a large freezer for the rest? Well, you are in my prayers!

[@bennyhill3642]

O Lord! I was sooo heart broken when I read the head linner.. All that hard work, and then to let everyone know what happened. I Thank you sooo much for sharing the Good and the Bad!!! 😇🙏👍

[@hardenmama1800]

Oh my gosh. I can't even imagine how you felt filling in that root cellar! You worked so hard to build it. Your positive attitude of learning from the experience is amazing. I wish I could give you both a big ol hug. The property looks beautiful. Your hard work has produced so much. You both are so smart and creative - I'm sure you will come up with a workable solution. Take care!

[@moogiealways3016]

This is going to be such a wonderful archeological dig in 500 years. I'm envious of the archeologists who will do it.

[@chloeporter6025]

Hey guys! Despite the song you chose, that root cellar was NOT a waste of time. Not only was it a valuable lesson for you, but for us viewers as well. You were able to benefit from it during the time you had it, and now you can learn from what didn't work. Huge bummer it didn't work out, but I'm still thankful that you shared it.

[@margaret8056]

WHAT A PITY AFTER ALL YER hard work LOVE YOUR video please keep sharing Margaret lynch Southern Ireland 🇮🇪 🙌 👌 😳 👏 👀 🇮🇪 🙌 👌 😳 👏 👀 🇮🇪 🙌 👌 😳

[@Rebecca.Robbins]

I can’t believe how positive you two are. I’m always so impressed with you both. You are such a great team. It warms my heart just to watch you work together.

[@cindybennett9819]

Such a good attitude about your root cellar. You did put so much work into it but as you said you learned a lot. I enjoy your videos.

[@aacassens]

I can think of 3 descriptive words for u guys: Resilient;Resourceful; Remarkable. This is what I want to do in my next life.

[@arcanavoresmanavault2637]

This channel is real life. Makes me want to grab a shovel and help. thanks for sharing the realities you struggle through.

[@noyopacific]

I would call the root cellar a worthwhile experiment rather than a failure. You guys seem to have a good balance between research and execution. Of course there will be lessons to learn along the way. Thanks for another awesome video!!!

[@tedbaker8291]

As others have said or suggested, kudos to you for livin and learnin. Some people would be so deflated by the collapse/flooding of the root cellar as to be almost paralyzed. But instead, you took action and have exactly the right attitude about it being a net positive: you learned how to make an earth bag enclosure; you learned what works in organizing/using a root cellar; you got a full season's use out of it; you now know where your water table is, and how it fluctuates; and you repurposed that area by filling it, adding gravel, and making space for vehicles, snow clearing, etc.. All of that will stand you in good stead going forward. Keep on keepin on.

[@quantumxfluxmd6821]

You guys are amazing and a class act. The root cellar may have failed in the end, but the whole endeavor is not even nearly a failure. you learned so much and worked together and had a great vessel to store food for a pretty decent amount of time and tried something most people wouldn't have. Live and learn and you guys are always doing both.

[@lauralanning7045]

Sorry to learn about the problems with you root cellar. I am a country girl with wide and varied experiences and if I were still young I would be out there doing as you. I grew up with a large family that grew and preserved much of their own food. An option for you is to get some 50 gallon drums to sink in a hole lined with sawdust or straw. Here you keep your root crops. For canned goods construct an above ground structure with thick double walls. Again fill the space between the walls with straw or sawdust (best). I have lived remote in a log home completely off the grid, in a tent in the forest, and in a RV for a large portion of my life. I enjoy your videos.

[@caycebrooke5754]

Oh no! I’m so sorry that happened to the beautiful root cellar! Hopefully something will pop into your minds and help you preserve your crop harvest! Much love and positivity coming your way ❤️❤️

[@demonrathunter]

I have the same problem here with a high water table and also at least 6 ft of solid clay. I have been looking into a earth mound above ground for a root cellar / storm shelter. GOOD LUCK AND JUST DO YOUR BEST !

[@natalietolchard7896]

I felt like crying for you guys. I hope you find a good solution for storage.

[@sharonclaassen8382]

Beautiful music playing while Eric was moving the compost heap.. And I am so sad to see your hard work going under.. But hey.. You'll figure out something better! Love you two awesome people 🤍🕊️🤍🕊️🙋‍♀️

[@dalemedlock1528]

Glad to see young people doing what I always wanted to do.

[@j.b.8767]

Too bad you weren't able to re-purpose those earthbags for an above ground root cellar that you bury, above ground, which I've seen work, with some careful planning. It is such a shame to lose all that hard work, but mother nature is really something to try and anticipate: she is always full of surprises! Human history is full of stories of people trying to anticipate what will come...and figuring out strategies, as you two will do, I am certain, because you are smart, work hard, and have a noble purpose in the things you are doing, which is pretty cool, because we all get to share in the journey. It is something I am very grateful for, grateful for the both of you! Thank you! Blessings, and best wishes, for a beautiful and blessed spring!

[@peacefulwife5199]

Awwww, sad about the root cellar. Your homestead looks so nice with all of that fresh gravel. Both of you take the bad with the good and turn it into positive things. Bandit stole the show with his "exploration in the pond". He's such a good dog. Hang in there. Where there's a will there's a way. ❤🌷❤

[@larryg9137]

Honestly, YOU TWO ARE "BOTH" TOTALLY AMAZING!!! It's been a total pleasure watching you install and then working on a 'new' root cellar! I honestly wish our government worked so smoothly when this happened, rather than shovel more bad money after the first bad decision. Good Job, Well Done!

[@marlenekutcher938]

When things like this happen (root cellar) we see how we are at the mercy of the elements. Water levels are up here and many docks are under water and we are on Georgian Bay. Our water is due to come up another 6" by the end of this summer. I love that it was a learning experience that you can go forward. You'll figure out what to do to keep your food over the winter. Maybe more dehydrating. Your property is looking awesome. Keep on keeping on. Thanks for sharing.

[@ignaciaforteza7731]

What an experience! My dearest you certainly are spirits of strength and generous humbleness. Thank you for sharing. Coming upon this one particular video of yours just makes me feel closer to you👍❤️

[@walkinginhopedoulaphotographer]

This is such a timely update for us, as we were in the process of starting one, and started seeing first-hand how difficult the water problem was actually going to be. I am so sorry that this happened. That had to be hard to go through.

[@dtlongrifles]

Bummer... I found your channel yesterday and I watched you build it, and today I watched you fill it in... Still, it's a great channel, glad I found it. :-)

[@goodandgreen]

Damn, I’m so sorry. Just listening to the part you put to the song “it’s all been a waste of time“ 😭

[@musiclover-tf6fu]

*You live and learn❗️*

[@jenjen1499]

So much work ......gone ! Would have made me cry ........ can’t wait to see your alternative storage .

[@HazelHammond1505]

I'm sorry about the root cellar. But It wasn't a waste of time. I'm sure you both learned alot from it. and the pond is coming along very good... take care and be safe

[@viqq183]

lol

[@jackclark5124]

So, I have these blue plastic 55 gallon drums with screw on lids. If buried they would probably be better than nothing for keeping food cool & from freezing. The screw on lids provide access and seal better than conventional drums. Or... just use concrete blocks to build above grade and cover with dirt. Hope it works out guys. I really enjoy watching your videos. God Bless!

[@erinfrancois6045]

I’m so sorry for losing the root cellar! That thing was awesome! I can imagine the frustration losing a valuable resource for preserving food. You guys are innovative and will come up with a solution! There is always a silver lining!

[@teresaobrien663]

That woodshed was impressive in the build episode but it’s even more impressive all filled with wood 🪵. I admire you two so much. What an amazing life you’re having! All these experiences you’re having and your attitudes 🥰. The style of your woodshed would also make for a great outdoor kitchen style (airflow, shelter, space - perfect for prepping all your fish, hunting, canning etc). It’s amazing how drastic the water table is affected by you. That root cellar was also impressive. It’s a bummer it couldn’t serve you longer. I can only imagine what you’ll come up with next time. Thank you for sharing all this with us.

[@physicstutor6521]

You could build an above grade earth insulated shelter. Maybe just use some logs for columns and then on the outside of the columns attach half logs. Civil engineer (that's me) pro tips: put a high quality water barrier (go to polar supply) and a couple inches of foam over it. Then bury it. 1 inch of foam equals 1 ft of dirt. So put 4" of foam on the top of it. Then put some cover on it. Just dont overload it. Dirt is heavy (that's what the insulation does. It cuts down on cover). Maybe have your inside grade about 2 ft below the adjacent grade. In corporate it into a garden or something You could also get some precast concrete out there. If you dug a hole you could bury a storm drain manhole. That would be pretty ideal, actually. Maybe you could get Anchorage tank to sell you a septic tank tank with just a bottom and top welded on. Maybe get a bottomless tank barrel that has the tar on the outside. Set that in a hole about a foot deep. Make sure you put a little concrete ring for it to sit on. Pour the bottom full, make a lid and insulate and bury. You could also get a closed tank with a custom opening on top and no baffles. You could use the 4 inch inlet and outlets for breathers. You could bury that tank below the waterline if you put ballast. Basically put a gravel floor in it. A big culvert could work. You could cast in place a concrete box. Maybe just bury a connex box. Keep your eyes open craigslist and marketplace. There is junk out there.

[@MookieMan1]

Septic tank I think would work great for them. Precast tank of some kind would be water tight.

[@coloradopackratprepper]

I see people buying even the plasic tanks to bury. Im actually thinking of one or two of those for myself. What is your thoughts about the big plastic septics to use as underground storage????

[@MookieMan1]

colorado prepper packrat I bet that would work well also with a dirt covering. The only thing that comes to mind is many of the plastic tanks are round which would be somewhat difficult to put shelving in.

[@coloradopackratprepper]

@@MookieMan1 ummm right i would hav to think about some sort of flooring. Maybe build from 2x4s??? Would mostly be 5gal buckets. My canned up jars in house!!!💞💞💞💞😺😺😺😺

[@dper1112]

@@coloradopackratprepper Big plastic tanks that are full of air will collapse from side pressure. Not a good idea for them because the saturated soil will destroy the thing, but if you were in a super dry location, you could go for it.

[@lindawhitmer6945]

I love your video's. You two are a young married couple who are passionate with where you live and you are very appreciative of all the abundance you have worked hard for. I too am sorry your root cellar didn't make it. God bless you both.

[@toolstotanzaniatfsrcymru8144]

Will be interesting to see what you do to replace the root cellar. You sound a bit as if you are kicking yourself for not anticipating the problems - well, don’t. Life is one big long learning experience, and everything that happens teaches you more. Do, learn, adapt, progress!!

[@happyhobbit8450]

Surprised at first that you buried the Root Cellar but understand now. Another good reason for building that earthbag root cellar is that I became a SUBSCRIBER!!! :) I've been researching earthbag structures for a couple of years & your video caught my interest & I've been watching you guys ever since!!! Love your channel ... Thank you for all your videos & sharing with us :)

[@jameskennedy9655]

With all of your labor I'm sorry your Root cellar didn't work out. Love you guys!

[@mypage6282]

I see a lot of tyre slippage when pushing or loading on the John Deere. I grew up on a farm and we did the following on all our tractors. You can fill the rear tyres with water and this increases the traction a lot. Simple to do. Jack up the tractor and support the weight. Unscrew the inner valve and attach your water hose to the valve with a hose clip. Put a small hole in the hose near the end and push a small breather tube into the hose extending into the tyre. Turn on the tap and as it fills with water it pushes out the air. When full just undo the hose and screw the valve back in then add a little air pressure as normal. You will be amazed at the difference. I’m living the dream watching you guys. Regards. Alan from Australia

[@NelloCambelli]

Not only are you a frontiers family, you are “pilots” because you pile it here and then you pile it there. You guys are truly blessed by Yankee Ingenuity!

[@NelloCambelli]

AND you have started Hugelculture by burying your logs.

[@NelloCambelli]

Do root cellars work when built into a hill using logs as framing for the dirt bags?

[@sharvo6]

That was bittersweet, especially considering how well it worked the first season. Hoping you have better luck at the new place!!

[@jimmieburleigh9549]

Get another shipping container build a artic entrance on it and pack in a few feet of dirt all around it and above it. Same as building a root cellar in a side of a hill but your building the hill. Then plant a hardy local grass on it.

[@kellypalmer1077]

Yes

[@lamebubblesflysohigh]

Their property is not that big unless they drastically expend into the bog but we are talking about major landscaping project here. It would be easier and simpler to insulate that container with polystyrene, fill all voids with expanding foam and use dedicated AC unit to cool it during summer months. Yes it would require hooking up to utilities (electricity) and thus yearly cost but it would be still cheaper than filling of a chunk of that bog and building of an artificial hill on top of it.

[@kellypalmer1077]

@@lamebubblesflysohigh whatever what plant did you hatch from

[@clutelmm]

Agree. Think about two, 20 foot insulated refrigerated shipping containers. One for your garden canning, and the other one for hunting and fishing and hanging other meats. 🐂🐖🐏🦃🐓🐟

[@marylouise890]

Bo loved that soft dirt under his feet and I loved the gentle song. 😊

[@Niccampbell629]

I’m so sorry about your root cellar!! My heart hurt watching you bury since I saw how much blood, sweat and tears you put into it! 😭 I like your sense of humor with the song choice though... lol. Take care! Love your channel! 💜

[@joseortiz5965]

Awesome. Sorry to hear about the root cellar. You guys worked so hard on that. Live and learn baby , it only makes you stronger.

[@immunitycorrupts3641]

you guys put in so much work on that root cellar sad to see it go... hope you're next cellar is better

[@sgrvtl7183]

So sorry to hear of root cellar, thank goodness no one was hurt!

[@ronh5422]

Looks like Bo is starting on the excavation project already, lol.. Sorry the rut cellar didn't work out as planned. Will be praying you will be able to make it thru the winter ok.. Love ya !!!!

[@anna-mariewoodcock9086]

Bandits pond is looking fantastic, good boy Bandit. Gotta love a full wood shed!

[@angelasamells3511]

I had a hard time liking this due to my feeling so bad for this setback. I'm sorry. You are amazingly good natured, I'm sure lots of tears. Hang in there 🤗🇨🇦🤗

[@jessauser2812]

That just sucks. Sorry about your loss. I couldn't believe the amount of work you two did on it, then to have this happen.

[@kelliholgate8055]

You two are the most industrious of couples. This makes me so sad!

[@jaypalsing2266]

I always enjoy to watch simple living Alaska channel. Specially when both of you in farm. I have rural background, so I feel cold fresh air, sunny day, work etc. Continue...

[@kberlyc32]

Ok, well I was going to try that earth bag root cellar, but we also are rained out. Alaska is a crazy wet frozen state fren's. Sorry you had to lose it. You worked so hard!

[@amysantilli8032]

😥 So sorry that didn't last!! It's so disappointing when stuff like that happens! I love how gracefully and honestly you handle the setbacks. You are truly inspirational!

[@Andrew-be9tk]

sad to see it go. cheers

[@sgrvtl7183]

What a lovely opening, reminiscing your hard work. Let's hope a better solution comes your way!

[@CarriesCulinaryCrafts]

This is my 3rd time going through your videos from the beginning to end and every time I see this episode my heart just aches for you guys. So much hard work and a great space that unfortunately didn’t work out. I feel so bad for you guys I hope you can come up with a solution that will work for you guys. My only thought is doing a ground level root cellar??? Build the structure then completely encase all but the door in dirt.. I don’t know maybe a dumb idea but I feel like I need to offer something! Anyway, love your videos go to them time and time again, I make your cowboy candy and coleslaw. Love them and I do my own teas as well. I have an old 1850s house that has a root cellar in basement, I do garden every year, can and store food (also long term). Please keep making videos don’t be afraid to make them longer and I love seeing the aerial videos of your property to see everything you have done. Thanks for being awesome and inspiring

[@wondertim0]

Aww sorry to hear you had to decostruct it, enjoyed watching you building and being so happy about it.

[@eddierich6179]

This music choice was hilarious 😂 glad you have good spirits about the situation at least.

[@borikkiv]

There are so many above-ground root cellar designs online that I am sure you will be able to find a good one. Your sloping ground looks useful! Mind you, I can't think why you threw those logs down there!

[@digitalguru42]

Looks like they needed the fill. All their dirt was used to add space and gravel is expensive, esp when you have free filler from logs.

[@borikkiv]

@@digitalguru42 I suppose so! Coming from a place where logs are expensive I would have kept them to try to build another version.

[@sophiamac9100]

The problem is, in time the logs will disintegrate and the surface will cave in slightly.

[@borikkiv]

@@sophiamac9100 hadn't thought of that.

[@digitalguru42]

@@sophiamac9100 buried underground without oxygen will slow decomp.

[@JasonAlexzander1q47]

This is the best for a young married couple. You ever move to a big city and have careers then your relationship will collapse. You are a nice team. I wish we lived close. You seem like good people to be friends with. Thanks for your videos.

[@margaretheathcote9842]

We learn as we go u r 2 smart people I know u got this

[@sknap2728]

I'm from CT but now live in UT. There's a place on Antelope Island that has an interesting root cellar concept. Technically, it's more like a wooden hut with a stone floor. Has a spring that comes to surface in one side. Learned this was where the canned items and cheese was stored. It's been there at least 75 yrs I'd say. Not exactly in use as its no longer a ranch, but more like a living museum sort of thing. The cool water and stone keeps all at a constant cool temperature.

[@gtfangel]

So sorry to hear about your loss of the root cellar. A temporary solution for this year/winter, could be to store your root crops in coolers or boxes covered by bales of hay outside. I live in Northern Minnesota and one winter, I left the carrots in the ground and covered them with hay. The insulation from hay and snow kept the carrots from freezing during the winter. I’m sure you will have lots of suggestions for a permanent solution and I wish you the best for a good outcome.

[@throughtheenchantedportal6617]

Ugh! Knife to the heart! So sorry guys! I know that you will figure out something that works better for you in the end. ♥️ Bandit was so funny excavating his pond. 😄

[@Gemini4218]

So sorry guys, you worked so hard on that and the veggies were doing pretty well during the winter months. Interested in seeing what your plans will be for winter storage.

[@arnoldromppai5395]

they said how they will store this winter, nothing to see, i knew when they built this it was going to be a total fail, as they hit water building it, and with swamp water levels rise and fall in feet from year to year, and with no way to install drain tile short of draining the whole swamp, your fighting sinking alll the time

[@Gemini4218]

@@arnoldromppai5395 Yeah I got that when they told us in the video, I was talking about future winter's. I'm pretty sure they had a hunch when they hit water but hoped for the best. Life is all about trial and error can't learn unless we make mistakes 😉

[@arnoldromppai5395]

@@Gemini4218 i see,, yes we all make small and huge mistakes and learn from them, i am 59 and i know to well. , well hiting water and moving forward with all that hard work all by hand,, i dont know, but for me that would have been the pin puller

[@Gemini4218]

@@arnoldromppai5395 remember it was their first time, maybe they thought it would rise some but not that much. We can't know for sure but all we can do is show our support while they deal with this. I am sure they are beating themselves up really bad over this. I know I do when I mess up cause we are our own worst critics.

[@etherealone]

I’m so sorry it didn’t work out. But you guys are so motivated and won’t let it get you down. The wood shed looks amazing. Thanks for sharing the whole process for us to learn from.

[@itsneil8581]

Make a root cellar above ground like earth homes and cover the entire structure with dirt.

[@timothystrampp3313]

Was thinking that also.... Concrete building covered with earth. Then grass it out for looks

[@itsneil8581]

Yeah exactly hope that will help.

[@BenjaminKlahn]

@@timothystrampp3313Don't even need the concrete, they are already experienced earthbag builders

[@timothystrampp3313]

@@BenjaminKlahn I'd go a few feet down also and then form out the structure in concrete.

[@Wearespurstv]

Yup they could use used tires and pack them with sledgehammers.

[@corinnetonelli489]

Sad .... you worked sooo hard! I am watching. Your life in Alaska, it’s a part of the world I wanted to learn how people live. You are both great! Keep up your hard work and your videos! I love them, thank you .

[@emilyblierpeterson3599]

For this winter, you could just 3/4 burry your plastic totes with sawdust & veggies (saw them in your cellar videos), close to your kitchen door, perhaps and keep it mulched / covered in snow , surrounded by a little gravel. I think this would be a good effort / storage capacity ratio for you this year since you mention not having lots of time.

[@Judy.LoveandLightAlways]

So sad the water rising like that. All the work you both put into your root cellar. Never did I think it would flood like that. Goes to show how uneducated I am with living off grid. You will both figure out a great idea on storage I'm sure. Kind thoughts from Australia xx

[@tardismole]

Interesting choice of music, there. However, I would like to just point out something. Building the root cellar was not a waste of time. Sometimes you win and sometimes you learn. And this time you learned a valuable lesson - don't dig into the water table. All the best to you both as you learn from this and move forward with planning and building the replacement cellar.

[@DougKutner]

I watched the videos of you building the cellar. What a lot of work! Your attitudes are great!

[@straubdavid9]

All I can say is "ouch"! The good news is that someone in Alaska has already solved your problem ... it's a matter of researching it. Wish I could add something constructive, but I'm clueless. Without a hill to dig into, or an old ammo bunker available - I'm out of suggestions. Looks like there are a number of possible suggestions in the comment section, and you'll prolly get a lot more. You have all winter to mull this over, as well as look for sources of material to help you out. All the best Eric & Arielle ... take care.

[@TheGardenerNorth]

Well a hill would be nice for sure, but the irony is that making a hill is about as hard as digging a hole.

[@lamebubblesflysohigh]

@@TheGardenerNorth it is actually harder

[@TheGardenerNorth]

@@lamebubblesflysohigh Maybe, but when you dig a hole and it fills with water its not a hole anymore its a pond

[@MrPanzerblitz]

@@TheGardenerNorth Or a well!

[@jenniferjames107]

Sorry to hear the root cellar didn’t work out that’s a big bummer. Hopefully you can come up with another easier more permanent solution soon. Can’t wait to hear about the next adventure!

[@kmw4359]

Basically, you’ve created hugelkultur: plant a garden where the root cellar used to be an reap the rewards. (Lemonade from lemons)

[@amandaguidry4242]

My husband built one last summer and it's been breaking down all winter. Now that its finally time to plant stuff, we're moving! Lol oh well, hopefully the next owners will appreciate it and he can always make a new one at the new farm

[@amyhendricks3627]

What a shame :( I hope you're able to do something that will store your harvest and all your canned goodies. That root cellar was amazing until, well...until it wasn't. I suppose, in homesteading, this is how one learns and adapts. Fortunately, there are many viable options for you. Maybe not this year, but next. Woodshed is amazing. Your hard work is visible every where you turn. How satisfying that must be! Thanks for sharing!

[@JamesJones-tx7tz]

Not really a high water year, it’s a typical year for our area last year and the year before were fairly dry years. Coupled with the swampy land the hydraulic pressure on those bags was inevitable. A viable option is a round concrete cellar with a concrete floor, foundation sealer on the outside and DryLok on the interior sand floor and spritzing will control the humidity needed for storage. An epdm membrane apron round the perimeter six inches below the surface grade will help was rainwater run off and away. If you’re in any of the local growing pages on Facebook and you see a garden tour for snow fire gardens over off Fairview loop, go check out there large walk in root cellar.

[@BigDsGaming2022]

also you could sink a large steel container then bag the inside .

[@RealHankShill]

@@BigDsGaming2022 A steel container will do the same thing, they will crush under the earth load. They are not designed for that load, at all. Only if you could keep all the load only concentrated on the corners. So many pics online of people trying it before thinking it through or googling it.

[@BigDsGaming2022]

@@RealHankShill so smart but you never discussed Oval Cylinders verses SquareSteel Boxes . There are no corners in round Steel Silos , maybe that is why they are used instead of square steel ?

[@brucea550]

@@RealHankShill look up connex shipping containers. We routinely bury those for underground storage, shooting ranges, etc. They don’t crush. If they did, it wouldn’t be possible to stack them close to a dozen high on barges.

[@sequoiawarner6756]

I first found your page searching for earth bag videos, so grateful to learn so much more as you build your homestead! That you for sharing the learning experience. With all the suggestions here you will find one that works!

[@adriennesmith.artist]

Bandit doing major excavation cracked me up!! I laughed out loud at that!!

[@echoewest2685]

Dang, it's too bad that happened, but you two are hard workers and positive people, and you'll probably have another great video showing us all what you came up with instead!

[@lindajennens9033]

watch off grid homesteading with the boss of the swamp. He made an icebox which could be adapted for a larger insulated cold room. You could build it either off the cabin or as a stand-alone. Worth a look anyway

[@beeamerica5024]

Yes in a bog you want above ground Root Cellar like a walkin cooler

[@tnwhitley]

Problem is they’re off grid so the cooler to be cooled means they’ll have to also buy a lot more solar panels & batteries, maybe even another converter/controller to power the AC it’ll need.

[@kellypalmer1077]

Yes

[@vivianwilliams2216]

So sorry to hear about your root cellar, hope you find another alternative, 😊👍💕💕💕

[@19Six83]

I know I'm late to the party, but just discovered your channel a few weeks ago. A few things about building with earthbags: round is usually going to be the better building shape for earthbags, especially underground. That will distribute the load more evenly across the structure. Also make sure you're backfilling every 2 or 3 courses and packing it tight instead of backfilling at the end. Second, using rebar to reinforce the courses of bags every so often is a good idea. Third, use thicker and larger sheets of plastic for the moisture barrier between the bags and the dirt. Moisture is an eartbag's enemy if they're not coated with something so you have to keep them dry. Your water table seems a bit high, maybe dig more shallow and have a few feet of your cellar above ground and berm it. OR build an entirely above ground cellar, insulate well and use earthtubes to regulate the temp (think eartships and thermal mass). Sorry about the cellar, you guys worked hard and that really does suck.

[@ladydi1875]

I was wondering there for a bit what the heck you were doing....glad you explained! You two work really hard...I enjoy watching you work!

[@grennhald]

I know it's already been suggested numerous times here, but maybe try an above ground cellar. If you chose to go the earth bag rout again then make it circular. Circular walls are much stronger. That, coupled with the near lack of frost heave you'd see from an above ground cellar, should provide a more than sturdy structure.

[@MrClivelupo]

i dont think so; Water is a devil and finds always a way, and once its underway you can´t get rid of it. The first hole is very small, but when Water is digging, you dont have a chance.

[@grennhald]

@@MrClivelupo Above ground would provide positive drainage, and if washed rock is used with fabric and weeping tile then there shouldn't be any water issues unless the area of the cellar itself is flooded.

[@jeep4ron]

Nice to add to your living space.. I was sad watching you cover the root cellar.. You two will come up with another great idea to store your food. You are survivors..!!😊❤️ Everything is a learning experience.. Have a wonderful night you two.

[@Kentboy05]

You're gonna have sink issues in that hole for the next 30 years. Those logs are going to make a nightmare when they rot

[@sgrvtl7183]

Wondered about that - It was my first thought- sinking

[@miarosie]

@@sgrvtl7183 not to say about the plastic left in there. Very sorry to see them do that too.

[@susanmiller7560]

Exactly. I was thinking the same thing. In our area, a little boy died when the ground collapsed under him because the builders of his family's house left branches in the ground after they finished construction. They covered the branches up with dirt, and when the branches rotted, a sink hole formed. Never bury wood.

[@mtbrydr]

Hard to make sense of that. Probably could have put the sand bags to good use somewhere else and they obviously use a lot of firewood so why would you bury that stuff... I don't get it.

[@ThundarrZ]

Basically, you’ve created hugelkultur: plant a garden where the root cellar used to be an reap the rewards. (Lemonade from lemons)

[@grayman4232]

God bless you, you and the Mrs. took that on the chin well and kept on moving. Took the lost and chalked it up to lesson learned. Love your channel if I had to do it over again I'd be liven next door, beats Brooklyn any day.

[@pmur079]

Is it possible to build an above ground “cellar” insulate and burry it in earth for your food storage? You two are awesome and hard workers. Hope a solution is in the works.

[@riderstrong6397]

Good Idea , another trailer/container (like the one they have for the tools), sand bags on the outside, but not in the ground, they would still have to deal with the water table shifting, (above ground no problems)...hook it up with a chiller(need to wire in off of solar)...they may need extra solar panels , but I don't think so...

[@riderstrong6397]

And to further extend this bad boy theory..on the outside sand bags they should make adobe mud...they have all the ingredient there at their fingertips except for hay.. slap that up, make it smooth..Indian technic....

[@sarahmiller9670]

@@riderstrong6397 yeah that's what I was thinking as well but more along the lines of a Hobbit hole aesthetic lol

[@kjmorley]

Maybe something like this above ground root cedar Gridlessness buit last year would be more suitable? They are a little bit south of you, in B.C. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5yzl2qwm5l8eJI kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZCvgmePqKqAaMU

[@riderstrong6397]

@@sarahmiller9670 lol make it pretty..but functional....I think that would work for them....then they wouldn't have to worry about water tables....wonder what the kids will do....( yeah I'm old enough to be their mom, but I do love me independent thinking kids.) I do like the above ground Hobbit Hole....Loved Lord of the Rings...