MOTHER EARTH NEWS

MOTHER EARTH NEWS magazine is the Original Guide to Living Wisely. Launched in 1970, each bimonthly issue features practical and money-saving information on cutting energy costs; using renewable energy; organic gardening; green home building and remodeling; fun do-it-yourself projects; and conscientious, self-sufficient lifestyles

Foraging as a Family

MOTHER EARTH NEWS

Train Derailment Disasters Don’t Show Signs of Slowing Down • On Feb. 3, a train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed near East Palestine, Ohio. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the train, owned by Norfolk Southern, had 38 train cars that derailed, 11 of which were carrying materials classified as carcinogens or contaminants. The NTSB investigation into the cause of the derailment is still ongoing, but evidence suggests it was at least partially due to overheat failure on a wheel bearing.

A New Plant Contest Heats Things Up

The Need for Native Seeds

Seed-Saving Movements Around the World

Dear MOTHER

EDITORS’ PICK

Compost Enclosure • Construct a fence that can envelope your compost while bringing life and diversity to your property.

Wild About Wild Jelly • Try foraging for fruit and flowers to get unique flavors.

Jewelweed A Gem of a Plant • If you’re in need of a quick poison-ivy rescue, this common native plant will help conquer the itch.

Basic Jewelweed Soap Recipe

Humane Wildlife Photography • When you’re out with your camera to capture astonishing shots of wildlife, here’s how to respect the animals’ boundaries and safety.

SKIP Skills to Inherit Property • This new program helps older folks find an heir to their property, while providing valuable skills and resources to a new generation of young homesteaders.

Get to Know Your Neighbors, The Bats • You have nothing to fear from these creatures of the night. In fact, they just might become your new allies.

Agroecology and Regenerative Agriculture • Environmental activist and food sovereignty advocate Vandana Shiva presents sustainable solutions for hunger, poverty, and climate change.

How the Electric Car Killed the Corn Industry • If we all switch to driving electric vehicles, the market could drown in excess corn. Tobacco farmers offer solutions. Robert Turner unpacks agriculture’s most intractable problems in a new column for Mother Earth News.

The Free Plant N Garden Stand A Community Initiative • In Arizona, a new online community is inspiring thousands to share, plant, and grow.

Soulful Seeds More Than a Garden • This nonprofit has put down roots in its Nevada community to provide fresh food, education, and support to those who need it most.

Essential Elements for a Predator-Proof Coop • A safe space for your flock means less stress on your birds and more peace of mind for you.

Off-Grid, Grid-Tied, and Battery Backup Systems • Welcome to the first in a series of articles answering reader questions on how to cut the utility company cord. Hoss Boyd is founder, president, and CEO of TeraVolt Energy. Kerena Reese is an independent energy engineer. They’re recognized solar and energy-storage experts. Learn more about TeraVolt Energy at www.TVNRG.com.

SIP Root Cellar • Left over from construction projects, structurally insulated panels (SIPs) form an inexpensive and effective storage space.

Growing a Garden Maiden

Buying a Pork Share • I’m looking into buying a pig share. Where should I start?

Free Gardening

Grow Cucumber-Melons • I was recently given some seeds for cucumber-melons; will the resulting fruit resemble cucumbers?

Photos from the Field