#solarpunksunday — Public Fediverse posts

@imthehumanoid And actually, it's the simplest and most brilliant design. A Muvo 100. Basically a USB stick with a soundcard and a headphone jack, run by a single AAA battery. No ads, no upgrades... And still works many years later.

#LowTech #OldTech #Muvo100 #MP3Players #GoodTech #KeepItSimple #SolarPunkSunday

@imthehumanoid And actually, it's the simplest and most brilliant design. A Muvo 100. Basically a USB stick with a soundcard and a headphone jack, run by a single AAA battery. No ads, no upgrades... And still works many years later.

#LowTech #OldTech #Muvo100 #MP3Players #GoodTech #KeepItSimple #SolarPunkSunday

@imthehumanoid And actually, it's the simplest and most brilliant design. A Muvo 100. Basically a USB stick with a soundcard and a headphone jack, run by a single AAA battery. No ads, no upgrades... And still works many years later.

#LowTech #OldTech #Muvo100 #MP3Players #GoodTech #KeepItSimple #SolarPunkSunday

@imthehumanoid And actually, it's the simplest and most brilliant design. A Muvo 100. Basically a USB stick with a soundcard and a headphone jack, run by a single AAA battery. No ads, no upgrades... And still works many years later.

#LowTech #OldTech #Muvo100 #MP3Players #GoodTech #KeepItSimple #SolarPunkSunday

@imthehumanoid And actually, it's the simplest and most brilliant design. A Muvo 100. Basically a USB stick with a soundcard and a headphone jack, run by a single AAA battery. No ads, no upgrades... And still works many years later.

#LowTech #OldTech #Muvo100 #MP3Players #GoodTech #KeepItSimple #SolarPunkSunday

Well, it was another great #SolarPunkSunday ! I learned a lot about #BeeNests, #GardeningForPollinators, #CompanionPlanting, #Herbalism, #Agroecology around the world, #Earthships and #SustainableDesign! A shout out to @MaQuest , @BrambleBearSnoring , @Broadfork , @jblue , @amazonrestore , @PhoenixSerenity , @joewynne and everyone else who boosted, posted and chimed in! Join us next week for more events, networking, and sharing information! #AnotherWorldIsPossible!

Simmer Pots
"There’s something magical about the way a simmer pot can completely transform the mood of your home. Whether you need a little extra calm, a boost of energy, or simply a breath of fresh air when you’re under the weather, there’s a simmer pot blend just for you."
https://www.simmerandstir.co.uk/post/mood-based-simmer-pot-recipes-natural-scents-for-every-feeling

#SolarPunkSunday #Herbs #Flowers #Fruit #SimmerPotRecipes #Recipes #NaturalScents #SimmerPots

📰 Mangroves clean up $8.7 billion of nitrogen pollution annually, per study.

Nitrogen pollution is a known problem in agriculture, other human activities, and wreaks havoc in aquatic ecosystems.

➕ Add this to mangroves being valuable carbon sinks, coastal defense against storm surges, a buffer against erosion, among other benefits.

https://www.livescience.com/planet-earth/plants/mangroves-clean-up-usd8-7-billion-of-nitrogen-pollution-every-year-study-finds

#SolarPunkSunday #Environment #Conservation #Pollution #Biodiversity #Mangroves #CoastalConservation

On a related note, @MaQuest . I've made herbal infusions that I've used in #ColdProcess #Soapmaking, in place of the water. Dried herbs can give texture (I've added lavender on top of soap after pouring it into molds), and some herbs and flowers can be used to make #Enfleurage (I've used coconut oil for that, which I then used to make soap). I have not tried using fresh herbs, though.

How To Use Fresh Herbs In Soap Making

Last updated: June 16, 2025

"Adding herbs to soap can enhance both its appearance and texture. One straightforward method is to sprinkle dried herbs into the soap mixture before pouring it into the mold. A small quantity of dried herbs creates a delicate visual texture, while a larger amount of roughly chopped fresh herbs can introduce a 'scrubby' texture. To incorporate herbs through the lye water, you can brew a herbal tea, with the option to either discard the herbs or retain them for later use in the soap. Additionally, herbs can be used as decorative touches on top of the soap or mixed in before pouring.

"It’s recommended to add about ½ to 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every pound (454g) of soap. These herbs, added at the 'Trace' stage, might slightly bleed during curing, creating a warm halo effect around each piece. Common culinary herbs like dried rosemary, pureed spinach, and dried peppermint can be utilized effectively."

https://plantsbulbsseeds.com/how-to-use-fresh-herbs-in-soap-making.html

#SolarPunkSunday #Herbs #SkinCare #UsingHerbs

Home Apothecary:
Essential Herbs to Get Started
https://www.simmerandstir.co.uk/post/build-your-home-apothecary-10-essential-herbs-to-get-started

#SolarPunkSunday #HerbalRemedies #Herbs #Salves #HerbalSalves #Balms #SkinCare #Healing #HomeApothecary

Herbal Salves and Balms
https://www.simmerandstir.co.uk/post/how-to-make-your-herbal-salves-and-balms-for-skin-healing

#SolarPunkSunday #Herbs #Salves #HerbalSalves #Balms #SkinCare #Healing

Herbs & Flowers for Dried Potpourri
https://www.simmerandstir.co.uk/post/the-best-herbs-flowers-for-dried-potpourri-and-how-to-grow-them-at-home

#SolarPunkSunday #Herbs #Flowers #DriedHerbs #DriedFlowers #Potpourri #Gardening #Gardens

Sun-Drying Herbs
https://eatandgeek.com/can-i-dry-my-herbs-in-the-sun/

#SolarPunkSunday #Herbs #Gardens #Gardening #HerbGardens #DriedHerbs

Water-Grown Herbs
https://bestplants.com/herbs-that-thrive-in-water/

#SolarPunkSunday #Herbs #Gardens #Gardening #HerbGardens #Hydroponics

RHS :
Herb Growing Guides
https://www.rhs.org.uk/herbs

#SolarPunkSunday #Herbs #Gardens #RHS #Gardening #UK #HerbGardens

RHS:
Three Ways To Use Companion Planting
https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/grow-your-own/features/companion-planting

#CompanionPlanting #SolarPunkSunday #Food #RHS #Vegetables #Fruit #Produce #SeasonalProduce #Gardening #UK

Quill-leaf #Lewisia.

This perennial herbal plant has medicinal benefits. Its roots are traditionally used to naturally alleviate stomach issues, diarrhea & skin irritations. Roots can be chewed to alleviate thirst. Medicinal use should only be done under experienced supervision, with correct dosage.

#Spring #perennials #Saanich #VictoriaBC #VancouverIsland #VanIsle #PacificNorthwest #PNW #flowers #botanical #plants #garden #Bloomscrolling #florespondence #PollinatorGardens #herbal #FlowersIdentification #NativePlantsOfPNW #PrettyInPink #MedicinalPlants #PlantMedicine #SolarpunkSunday

#Changemaker Spotlight: #MichaelShaughnessy

A dedicated Friend of the #PresumpscotRiver

By Amy Paradysz, Winter 2025-26

Excerpt: "Shaughnessy, who became president of the Friends group in 2010, is inspired by the historical record of #ChiefPolin saying he 'belonged to' the Presumpscot River. Shaughnessy says, 'That has been a bellwether for us, conceptually, that we all belong to the river and the river could be cared for much better.' "

Read more:
https://www.greenhealthymaine.com/blog/changemaker-michael-shaughnessy

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineRivers #FriendsOfThePresumpscotRiver #Riverkeepers #WaterIsLife #Changemakers #Maine #EnvironmentalStewardship

Checking out #GearLibraries just makes sense

Sharing equipment makes #OutdoorRecreation more accessible, equitable and #sustainable.

By Amy Paradysz, Winter 2025-26

"We're all familiar with the principle behind #libraries: The community shares a collection of books so we can all access media without having to buy, own or store it. Gear libraries are built on the same notion: Sharing equipment makes outdoor recreation more accessible, more equitable and more sustainable. And sometimes it just makes good sense: Do you really want to own that pull-behind ski chariot that you might use once or twice?

"Thanks to a new coalition called the #MaineGearLibraryNetwork, it’s becoming easier to access a wider variety of gear throughout the state. For example, although #KindlingCollective in downtown #PortlandME doesn’t have enough space to stock a wide variety of outdoor apparel, their members can borrow what they need through #MaineGearShare in #BrunswickME at no additional charge.

" 'The network is a growing coalition of community organizations that are working together to make outdoor recreation more accessible, especially for rural, low-income and historically excluded communities,' said Maine GearShare Advancement Manager Emily Mackeown. 'This means that more Mainers can enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.'

"The lending or renting model varies greatly across the network. At some gear libraries, members can check out items for free—and membership may be as simple as having a card to your local library.

"More commonly, there’s a fee to check out items, but gear libraries that are nonprofits or under the auspices of a public library or university can charge less than a for-profit rental business would.

"Sometimes there’s a sliding scale based on socioeconomic factors; basically, people with more resources subsidize gear for those with fewer resources. At some gear libraries, groups like school outing clubs can save a great deal of money by purchasing a membership that covers hundreds of 'participant days' worth of gear, eliminating choices of what gear, exactly, they can afford to borrow."

Learn more:
https://www.greenhealthymaine.com/blog/gear-libraries

#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #SpendTimeInNature #Kayaks #Hiking #Maine #OutdoorRecreation

Checking out #GearLibraries just makes sense

Sharing equipment makes #OutdoorRecreation more accessible, equitable and #sustainable.

By Amy Paradysz, Winter 2025-26

"We're all familiar with the principle behind #libraries: The community shares a collection of books so we can all access media without having to buy, own or store it. Gear libraries are built on the same notion: Sharing equipment makes outdoor recreation more accessible, more equitable and more sustainable. And sometimes it just makes good sense: Do you really want to own that pull-behind ski chariot that you might use once or twice?

"Thanks to a new coalition called the #MaineGearLibraryNetwork, it’s becoming easier to access a wider variety of gear throughout the state. For example, although #KindlingCollective in downtown #PortlandME doesn’t have enough space to stock a wide variety of outdoor apparel, their members can borrow what they need through #MaineGearShare in #BrunswickME at no additional charge.

" 'The network is a growing coalition of community organizations that are working together to make outdoor recreation more accessible, especially for rural, low-income and historically excluded communities,' said Maine GearShare Advancement Manager Emily Mackeown. 'This means that more Mainers can enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.'

"The lending or renting model varies greatly across the network. At some gear libraries, members can check out items for free—and membership may be as simple as having a card to your local library.

"More commonly, there’s a fee to check out items, but gear libraries that are nonprofits or under the auspices of a public library or university can charge less than a for-profit rental business would.

"Sometimes there’s a sliding scale based on socioeconomic factors; basically, people with more resources subsidize gear for those with fewer resources. At some gear libraries, groups like school outing clubs can save a great deal of money by purchasing a membership that covers hundreds of 'participant days' worth of gear, eliminating choices of what gear, exactly, they can afford to borrow."

Learn more:
https://www.greenhealthymaine.com/blog/gear-libraries

#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #SpendTimeInNature #Kayaks #Hiking #Maine #OutdoorRecreation

Checking out #GearLibraries just makes sense

Sharing equipment makes #OutdoorRecreation more accessible, equitable and #sustainable.

By Amy Paradysz, Winter 2025-26

"We're all familiar with the principle behind #libraries: The community shares a collection of books so we can all access media without having to buy, own or store it. Gear libraries are built on the same notion: Sharing equipment makes outdoor recreation more accessible, more equitable and more sustainable. And sometimes it just makes good sense: Do you really want to own that pull-behind ski chariot that you might use once or twice?

"Thanks to a new coalition called the #MaineGearLibraryNetwork, it’s becoming easier to access a wider variety of gear throughout the state. For example, although #KindlingCollective in downtown #PortlandME doesn’t have enough space to stock a wide variety of outdoor apparel, their members can borrow what they need through #MaineGearShare in #BrunswickME at no additional charge.

" 'The network is a growing coalition of community organizations that are working together to make outdoor recreation more accessible, especially for rural, low-income and historically excluded communities,' said Maine GearShare Advancement Manager Emily Mackeown. 'This means that more Mainers can enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.'

"The lending or renting model varies greatly across the network. At some gear libraries, members can check out items for free—and membership may be as simple as having a card to your local library.

"More commonly, there’s a fee to check out items, but gear libraries that are nonprofits or under the auspices of a public library or university can charge less than a for-profit rental business would.

"Sometimes there’s a sliding scale based on socioeconomic factors; basically, people with more resources subsidize gear for those with fewer resources. At some gear libraries, groups like school outing clubs can save a great deal of money by purchasing a membership that covers hundreds of 'participant days' worth of gear, eliminating choices of what gear, exactly, they can afford to borrow."

Learn more:
https://www.greenhealthymaine.com/blog/gear-libraries

#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #SpendTimeInNature #Kayaks #Hiking #Maine #OutdoorRecreation

Checking out #GearLibraries just makes sense

Sharing equipment makes #OutdoorRecreation more accessible, equitable and #sustainable.

By Amy Paradysz, Winter 2025-26

"We're all familiar with the principle behind #libraries: The community shares a collection of books so we can all access media without having to buy, own or store it. Gear libraries are built on the same notion: Sharing equipment makes outdoor recreation more accessible, more equitable and more sustainable. And sometimes it just makes good sense: Do you really want to own that pull-behind ski chariot that you might use once or twice?

"Thanks to a new coalition called the #MaineGearLibraryNetwork, it’s becoming easier to access a wider variety of gear throughout the state. For example, although #KindlingCollective in downtown #PortlandME doesn’t have enough space to stock a wide variety of outdoor apparel, their members can borrow what they need through #MaineGearShare in #BrunswickME at no additional charge.

" 'The network is a growing coalition of community organizations that are working together to make outdoor recreation more accessible, especially for rural, low-income and historically excluded communities,' said Maine GearShare Advancement Manager Emily Mackeown. 'This means that more Mainers can enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.'

"The lending or renting model varies greatly across the network. At some gear libraries, members can check out items for free—and membership may be as simple as having a card to your local library.

"More commonly, there’s a fee to check out items, but gear libraries that are nonprofits or under the auspices of a public library or university can charge less than a for-profit rental business would.

"Sometimes there’s a sliding scale based on socioeconomic factors; basically, people with more resources subsidize gear for those with fewer resources. At some gear libraries, groups like school outing clubs can save a great deal of money by purchasing a membership that covers hundreds of 'participant days' worth of gear, eliminating choices of what gear, exactly, they can afford to borrow."

Learn more:
https://www.greenhealthymaine.com/blog/gear-libraries

#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #SpendTimeInNature #Kayaks #Hiking #Maine #OutdoorRecreation

Checking out #GearLibraries just makes sense

Sharing equipment makes #OutdoorRecreation more accessible, equitable and #sustainable.

By Amy Paradysz, Winter 2025-26

"We're all familiar with the principle behind #libraries: The community shares a collection of books so we can all access media without having to buy, own or store it. Gear libraries are built on the same notion: Sharing equipment makes outdoor recreation more accessible, more equitable and more sustainable. And sometimes it just makes good sense: Do you really want to own that pull-behind ski chariot that you might use once or twice?

"Thanks to a new coalition called the #MaineGearLibraryNetwork, it’s becoming easier to access a wider variety of gear throughout the state. For example, although #KindlingCollective in downtown #PortlandME doesn’t have enough space to stock a wide variety of outdoor apparel, their members can borrow what they need through #MaineGearShare in #BrunswickME at no additional charge.

" 'The network is a growing coalition of community organizations that are working together to make outdoor recreation more accessible, especially for rural, low-income and historically excluded communities,' said Maine GearShare Advancement Manager Emily Mackeown. 'This means that more Mainers can enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.'

"The lending or renting model varies greatly across the network. At some gear libraries, members can check out items for free—and membership may be as simple as having a card to your local library.

"More commonly, there’s a fee to check out items, but gear libraries that are nonprofits or under the auspices of a public library or university can charge less than a for-profit rental business would.

"Sometimes there’s a sliding scale based on socioeconomic factors; basically, people with more resources subsidize gear for those with fewer resources. At some gear libraries, groups like school outing clubs can save a great deal of money by purchasing a membership that covers hundreds of 'participant days' worth of gear, eliminating choices of what gear, exactly, they can afford to borrow."

Learn more:
https://www.greenhealthymaine.com/blog/gear-libraries

#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #SpendTimeInNature #Kayaks #Hiking #Maine #OutdoorRecreation

Planting For Bees: Herbs
https://attractbees.co.uk/plants-for-bees/herbs-for-bees/

#SolarPunkSunday #Plants #Pollinators #Gardens #Gardening #Bees #Nature #WildLife #Herbs

Planting For Bees: Trees And Shrubs
https://attractbees.co.uk/plants-for-bees/trees-and-shrubs-for-bees/

#SolarPunkSunday #Plants #Pollinators #Gardens #Gardening #Bees #Nature #WildLife #Trees #Shrubs

Planting For Bees: Flowers
https://attractbees.co.uk/plants-for-bees/bedding-flowers-for-bees/

#SolarPunkSunday #Plants #Pollinators #Gardens #Gardening #Bees #Nature #WildLife #Flowers

Planting For Bees: Wildflowers
https://attractbees.co.uk/plants-for-bees/wildflowers-for-bees/

#SolarPunkSunday #Plants #Pollinators #Gardens #Gardening #Bees #Nature #WildLife #WildFlowers

Patio Plants For Bees
https://www.rhs.org.uk/garden-inspiration/wildlife/top-10-patio-plants-for-bees

#SolarPunkSunday #Patios #Bees #Plants #Flowers #Gardening #Gardens #RHS #Pollinators #BioDiversity #Nature

World Bee Sanctuary: Bees And Flowers
https://worldbeesanctuary.org/bees-and-flowers/

#SolarPunkSunday #WorldBeeSanctuary #Bees #Flowers #Gardening #Gardens #Pollinators #BioDiversity #Nature

Sustainable Design: Books And Resources
https://www.arch2o.com/sustainable-architecture-design-books/

#SolarPunkSunday #SustainableDesign #FreeStuff #GreenBuilding #FreeOnlineCourses #Education

Free Online Courses: Sustainable Design
https://www.arch2o.com/sustainable-design-courses-free/

#SolarPunkSunday #SustainableDesign #FreeStuff #GreenBuilding #FreeOnlineCourses #Education

Butterfly Conservation
https://butterfly-conservation.org/how-you-can-help/get-involved/volunteering

#SolarPunkSunday #WildLife #Nature #ButterflyConservation #Butterflies #Moths #Volunteering #Volunteer #Conservation

Bulletin #7151, Landscaping for #Butterflies in #Maine (PDF)

This fact sheet was developed by: Nancy Coverstone, Extension educator, Jim Dill, Extension pest management specialist, and Lois Berg Stack, Extension ornamental horticulture specialist.

Table of Contents:

- The Life Cycle of Butterflies
- Common Maine Butterflies
- How to Create Habitat that Entices Butterflies
- “Wild” Places Attract Butterflies
- #NativePlants Support Butterflies
- Design Tips for a Successful #ButterflyGarden
- Nectar Sources for Butterflies and Moths
- Larval Food Sources
- Further Readings

"Butterflies are beautiful insects, and they are also an important part of the ecosystem. In their search for nectar, they spread pollen from one flower to another and help ensure seed for new generations of plants. They also recycle nutrients and are prey for many species of birds, spiders and small mammals. Gardening and landscaping can create or enhance habitats for butterflies so they may survive and thrive. Whether your yard is in a city, suburb or rural community, you can make it a haven for butterflies.

Butterflies belong to the insect order Lepidoptera, along with moths and skippers. All species of butterflies in Maine, of which there are more than one hundred, have four wings covered with small scales. The butterfly families in Maine are #swallowtails (Papilionidae), whites and sulphurs (Pieridae), gossamer-wings (Lycaenidae), brush-footed butterflies (Nymphalidae), #monarchs (Danaidae), and arctics and satyrs (Satyridae), which includes the endangered #KatahdinArctic. Skippers (#Hesperiidae) have characteristics of both butterflies and moths.

When developing a landscape for butterflies, first consider butterfly species present in your area and their preferred habitats. Then consider plants suited to your climate and your backyard habitat. Assess what your landscape already provides, and add to that. Each butterfly species has a preference or need for a particular habitat type, such as meadow, woods, woodland edges or marshes. Also, some species are specialists, while others are generalists regarding food sources. The habitat preference as well as plants you provide will determine your success in attracting a particular butterfly species. An identification field guide will prove helpful."

Learn more:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/7151e/

#SolarPunkSunday #ButterflyHabitat #BackyardHabitats #GardeningForPollinators #UMaineExtension #UMaineCooperativeExtension

Earthships and Permaculture
https://www.permaculture.org.uk/practical-solutions/earthship

#SolarPunkSunday #LowCarbon #EarthShips #PermaCulture #PassiveSolar #Renewables #SolarEnergy #RainHarvesting #Waste #WasteWater #Sustainability

Earthships on Wikimedia
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Earthships

#SolarPunkSunday #LowCarbon #EarthShips #PassiveSolar #Renewables #SolarEnergy #RainHarvesting #Waste #WasteWater #Sustainability

Earthships on Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthship

#SolarPunkSunday #LowCarbon #EarthShips #PassiveSolar #Renewables #SolarEnergy #RainHarvesting #Waste #WasteWater #Sustainability

#BeeNesting Houses

Construction, placement, and maintenance

"Placing wooden bee nesting houses in your yard, garden, and around woodland edges is an effective means of increasing populations of cavity-nesting bees, especially mason and leafcutting bees. Several designs are available for purchase, so just follow the placement and maintenance recommendations offered in this fact sheet.

If you have woodworking skills, make your own nesting houses. The design described in this fact sheet is an adaptation of the conservation bee nesting houses used in research, modified for the tools that homeowners would have on hand.

Materials needed

- An 8-foot 2×6 makes 15 (6 1/4-inch) houses, which is more than enough houses for a quarter-acre lot. Bee houses can be made from soft or hard woods. Spruce 2x6s work well. Do not use pressure-treated wood.
- Metal 3/4-inch perforated strapping (also called plumber’s strapping or plumber’s tape).
- 1-inch or 1 1/4-inch screws for attaching the perforated strapping to the back of the bee houses.
- 3/4-inch screws if houses are attached to wood stakes, or 1 to 1 1/4-inch screws if houses are to be attached to the side of a shed or barn or to fence posts.
- 5-foot wood stakes. Two relatively inexpensive stakes can be made from a 10-foot piece of ceiling strapping.

Tools needed

- Power drill
- Drill bits with 9/64-inch, 5/16-inch, and 7/16-inch diameters
- Screw bit or screwdriver
- Circular saw or hand saw
- A sledge hammer if bee houses will be mounted on wooden stakes"

Learn more:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/7153e/#conservation

#SolarPunkSunday #DIY #DIYBeeHouses #BeeHouses #Pollinators #Bees #BeeConservation

#BeeNesting Houses

Construction, placement, and maintenance

"Placing wooden bee nesting houses in your yard, garden, and around woodland edges is an effective means of increasing populations of cavity-nesting bees, especially mason and leafcutting bees. Several designs are available for purchase, so just follow the placement and maintenance recommendations offered in this fact sheet.

If you have woodworking skills, make your own nesting houses. The design described in this fact sheet is an adaptation of the conservation bee nesting houses used in research, modified for the tools that homeowners would have on hand.

Materials needed

- An 8-foot 2×6 makes 15 (6 1/4-inch) houses, which is more than enough houses for a quarter-acre lot. Bee houses can be made from soft or hard woods. Spruce 2x6s work well. Do not use pressure-treated wood.
- Metal 3/4-inch perforated strapping (also called plumber’s strapping or plumber’s tape).
- 1-inch or 1 1/4-inch screws for attaching the perforated strapping to the back of the bee houses.
- 3/4-inch screws if houses are attached to wood stakes, or 1 to 1 1/4-inch screws if houses are to be attached to the side of a shed or barn or to fence posts.
- 5-foot wood stakes. Two relatively inexpensive stakes can be made from a 10-foot piece of ceiling strapping.

Tools needed

- Power drill
- Drill bits with 9/64-inch, 5/16-inch, and 7/16-inch diameters
- Screw bit or screwdriver
- Circular saw or hand saw
- A sledge hammer if bee houses will be mounted on wooden stakes"

Learn more:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/7153e/#conservation

#SolarPunkSunday #DIY #DIYBeeHouses #BeeHouses #Pollinators #Bees #BeeConservation

#BeeNesting Houses

Construction, placement, and maintenance

"Placing wooden bee nesting houses in your yard, garden, and around woodland edges is an effective means of increasing populations of cavity-nesting bees, especially mason and leafcutting bees. Several designs are available for purchase, so just follow the placement and maintenance recommendations offered in this fact sheet.

If you have woodworking skills, make your own nesting houses. The design described in this fact sheet is an adaptation of the conservation bee nesting houses used in research, modified for the tools that homeowners would have on hand.

Materials needed

- An 8-foot 2×6 makes 15 (6 1/4-inch) houses, which is more than enough houses for a quarter-acre lot. Bee houses can be made from soft or hard woods. Spruce 2x6s work well. Do not use pressure-treated wood.
- Metal 3/4-inch perforated strapping (also called plumber’s strapping or plumber’s tape).
- 1-inch or 1 1/4-inch screws for attaching the perforated strapping to the back of the bee houses.
- 3/4-inch screws if houses are attached to wood stakes, or 1 to 1 1/4-inch screws if houses are to be attached to the side of a shed or barn or to fence posts.
- 5-foot wood stakes. Two relatively inexpensive stakes can be made from a 10-foot piece of ceiling strapping.

Tools needed

- Power drill
- Drill bits with 9/64-inch, 5/16-inch, and 7/16-inch diameters
- Screw bit or screwdriver
- Circular saw or hand saw
- A sledge hammer if bee houses will be mounted on wooden stakes"

Learn more:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/7153e/#conservation

#SolarPunkSunday #DIY #DIYBeeHouses #BeeHouses #Pollinators #Bees #BeeConservation

#BeeNesting Houses

Construction, placement, and maintenance

"Placing wooden bee nesting houses in your yard, garden, and around woodland edges is an effective means of increasing populations of cavity-nesting bees, especially mason and leafcutting bees. Several designs are available for purchase, so just follow the placement and maintenance recommendations offered in this fact sheet.

If you have woodworking skills, make your own nesting houses. The design described in this fact sheet is an adaptation of the conservation bee nesting houses used in research, modified for the tools that homeowners would have on hand.

Materials needed

- An 8-foot 2×6 makes 15 (6 1/4-inch) houses, which is more than enough houses for a quarter-acre lot. Bee houses can be made from soft or hard woods. Spruce 2x6s work well. Do not use pressure-treated wood.
- Metal 3/4-inch perforated strapping (also called plumber’s strapping or plumber’s tape).
- 1-inch or 1 1/4-inch screws for attaching the perforated strapping to the back of the bee houses.
- 3/4-inch screws if houses are attached to wood stakes, or 1 to 1 1/4-inch screws if houses are to be attached to the side of a shed or barn or to fence posts.
- 5-foot wood stakes. Two relatively inexpensive stakes can be made from a 10-foot piece of ceiling strapping.

Tools needed

- Power drill
- Drill bits with 9/64-inch, 5/16-inch, and 7/16-inch diameters
- Screw bit or screwdriver
- Circular saw or hand saw
- A sledge hammer if bee houses will be mounted on wooden stakes"

Learn more:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/7153e/#conservation

#SolarPunkSunday #DIY #DIYBeeHouses #BeeHouses #Pollinators #Bees #BeeConservation

#BeeNesting Houses

Construction, placement, and maintenance

"Placing wooden bee nesting houses in your yard, garden, and around woodland edges is an effective means of increasing populations of cavity-nesting bees, especially mason and leafcutting bees. Several designs are available for purchase, so just follow the placement and maintenance recommendations offered in this fact sheet.

If you have woodworking skills, make your own nesting houses. The design described in this fact sheet is an adaptation of the conservation bee nesting houses used in research, modified for the tools that homeowners would have on hand.

Materials needed

- An 8-foot 2×6 makes 15 (6 1/4-inch) houses, which is more than enough houses for a quarter-acre lot. Bee houses can be made from soft or hard woods. Spruce 2x6s work well. Do not use pressure-treated wood.
- Metal 3/4-inch perforated strapping (also called plumber’s strapping or plumber’s tape).
- 1-inch or 1 1/4-inch screws for attaching the perforated strapping to the back of the bee houses.
- 3/4-inch screws if houses are attached to wood stakes, or 1 to 1 1/4-inch screws if houses are to be attached to the side of a shed or barn or to fence posts.
- 5-foot wood stakes. Two relatively inexpensive stakes can be made from a 10-foot piece of ceiling strapping.

Tools needed

- Power drill
- Drill bits with 9/64-inch, 5/16-inch, and 7/16-inch diameters
- Screw bit or screwdriver
- Circular saw or hand saw
- A sledge hammer if bee houses will be mounted on wooden stakes"

Learn more:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/7153e/#conservation

#SolarPunkSunday #DIY #DIYBeeHouses #BeeHouses #Pollinators #Bees #BeeConservation

Earthship Biotecture
https://earthship.com/

#SolarPunkSunday #Biotecture #LowCarbon #EarthShips #PassiveSolar #Renewables #SolarEnergy #RainHarvesting #Waste #WasteWater #Sustainability

Earthship Brighton
https://www.lowcarbon.co.uk/earthship-brighton

#SolarPunkSunday #LowCarbon #EarthShips #PassiveSolar #Renewables #SolarEnergy #RainHarvesting #Waste #WasteWater #Sustainability #Brighton

#LosAltosCA - Creating a #Pollinator's Paradise: How to Attract Diverse Species to Your Yard

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Los Altos Library
13 S. San Antonio Road
Los Altos CA 94022

"Want to create beauty and support the environment? Join us for the third presentation in our #GoGreen Series and discover how to transform your landscape into a haven for pollinators.

You'll hear about:

- The ecological benefits of #NativeLandscapes from #GrassrootsEcology
- A #WoodlandPark Library project creating a thriving #PollinatorHabitat
- A local pilot program where 10 homes turned their yards into vibrant #PollinatorGardens

Get inspired and leave with ideas you can put into action at home."

FMI [includes request for accessibility accommodations]:
https://sccl.bibliocommons.com/events/69f0e8ccbd9a3c316a55f131

#SolarPunkSunday #GardeningForPollinators #CaliforniaEvents #LibrariesRule! #NativePlants

#LosAltosCA - Creating a #Pollinator's Paradise: How to Attract Diverse Species to Your Yard

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Los Altos Library
13 S. San Antonio Road
Los Altos CA 94022

"Want to create beauty and support the environment? Join us for the third presentation in our #GoGreen Series and discover how to transform your landscape into a haven for pollinators.

You'll hear about:

- The ecological benefits of #NativeLandscapes from #GrassrootsEcology
- A #WoodlandPark Library project creating a thriving #PollinatorHabitat
- A local pilot program where 10 homes turned their yards into vibrant #PollinatorGardens

Get inspired and leave with ideas you can put into action at home."

FMI [includes request for accessibility accommodations]:
https://sccl.bibliocommons.com/events/69f0e8ccbd9a3c316a55f131

#SolarPunkSunday #GardeningForPollinators #CaliforniaEvents #LibrariesRule! #NativePlants

#LosAltosCA - Creating a #Pollinator's Paradise: How to Attract Diverse Species to Your Yard

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Los Altos Library
13 S. San Antonio Road
Los Altos CA 94022

"Want to create beauty and support the environment? Join us for the third presentation in our #GoGreen Series and discover how to transform your landscape into a haven for pollinators.

You'll hear about:

- The ecological benefits of #NativeLandscapes from #GrassrootsEcology
- A #WoodlandPark Library project creating a thriving #PollinatorHabitat
- A local pilot program where 10 homes turned their yards into vibrant #PollinatorGardens

Get inspired and leave with ideas you can put into action at home."

FMI [includes request for accessibility accommodations]:
https://sccl.bibliocommons.com/events/69f0e8ccbd9a3c316a55f131

#SolarPunkSunday #GardeningForPollinators #CaliforniaEvents #LibrariesRule! #NativePlants

#LosAltosCA - Creating a #Pollinator's Paradise: How to Attract Diverse Species to Your Yard

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Los Altos Library
13 S. San Antonio Road
Los Altos CA 94022

"Want to create beauty and support the environment? Join us for the third presentation in our #GoGreen Series and discover how to transform your landscape into a haven for pollinators.

You'll hear about:

- The ecological benefits of #NativeLandscapes from #GrassrootsEcology
- A #WoodlandPark Library project creating a thriving #PollinatorHabitat
- A local pilot program where 10 homes turned their yards into vibrant #PollinatorGardens

Get inspired and leave with ideas you can put into action at home."

FMI [includes request for accessibility accommodations]:
https://sccl.bibliocommons.com/events/69f0e8ccbd9a3c316a55f131

#SolarPunkSunday #GardeningForPollinators #CaliforniaEvents #LibrariesRule! #NativePlants

#LosAltosCA - Creating a #Pollinator's Paradise: How to Attract Diverse Species to Your Yard

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Los Altos Library
13 S. San Antonio Road
Los Altos CA 94022

"Want to create beauty and support the environment? Join us for the third presentation in our #GoGreen Series and discover how to transform your landscape into a haven for pollinators.

You'll hear about:

- The ecological benefits of #NativeLandscapes from #GrassrootsEcology
- A #WoodlandPark Library project creating a thriving #PollinatorHabitat
- A local pilot program where 10 homes turned their yards into vibrant #PollinatorGardens

Get inspired and leave with ideas you can put into action at home."

FMI [includes request for accessibility accommodations]:
https://sccl.bibliocommons.com/events/69f0e8ccbd9a3c316a55f131

#SolarPunkSunday #GardeningForPollinators #CaliforniaEvents #LibrariesRule! #NativePlants

It's World Migratory Bird Day!
https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/news/every-bird-counts

#WorldMigratoryBirdDay #Birds #RSPB #Migration #Nature #WildLife #BioDiversity #SolarPunkSunday

It's World Migratory Bird Day!
https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/news/every-bird-counts

#WorldMigratoryBirdDay #Birds #RSPB #Migration #Nature #WildLife #BioDiversity #SolarPunkSunday