Saturday, July 11, 2009

1:00 - 3:30 p.m

$35 per person

Location: Nisse Farm (near Manteno, Illinois)

See directions below

Moving to the country and a simpler life is a dream of many people but what are some things you need to consider before you even begin looking at real estate?  Is living in the country really any simpler?  What are some ways to find that perfect spot? What do you do if your neighbor's cows are leisurely stolling across your newly planted yard at 2:30 in the morning?

Julie Larsen was born and raised in Chicago and moved to 25 acres in Wisconsin 14 years ago without knowing anything about livestock, wells or septic systems.   She now lives in rural Manteno, IL and will share some of the ups and downs of transitioning from city to country living.  This is the talk she wishes she had heard before she made the leap to greener pastures.

Topics will include:

- The good things about rural life

- The bad things about rural life

- Finding property

- Zoning

- Wells and septic systems

- Neighbors

- Livestock

 

 

The workshop will include a tour of Nisse Farm so attendees can see the many challenges a 5 acre country property can have. Nisse Farm uses sustainable growing methods to integrate animals, gardens and an orchard.

 

 

Cost is $35 and includes handouts.

Click here for directions to Nisse Farm

Julie and Zorro

Julie Larsen
Julie lives just north of the Kankakee River State Park with her husband Jim and daughter Grace (as well as Zorro her pet goat, a couple llamas, a flock of chickens, and four beehives). She has a passion for sustainable living, holds a masters degree in environmental biology, has operated an organic flower and vegetable farm, and was chef/owner of a café in Chicago. She is also CSC's Outreach Coordinator.