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Will it work for survival?

Hello SQFTRs...

I've been reading this list for about 4 months. I'm fascinated. Thanks!

I started reading because I'm studying possible "survival" farming methods
for feeding people in a commune-like situation. I'm a computer consultant
concerned about the financial and social chaos which I expect to take place
world-wide because of the Year 2000 computer problem. I'm considering the
possibility of electrical power outages as well as other occurances related
to the computer problem. The various ripple effects from the problem could
seriously effect the production and distribution of food during and
following the chaos.

It isn't my intent to get on a soapbox to promote a doom 'n' gloom situation
for the year 2000. I relate the above to explain my reasons for an interest
in SQ FT gardening. I want to ask folks who have been following and using
SQFT methods if they think the methods are workable during a potential
chaotic situation where a lack of electricity [for water pumps etc.] and
transportation [for seeds and chemicals] and seed production [non hybrid]
could be a problem.

The FAQ states: "It does require that your soil be in tip top condition -
lots of organic material in it and a strong desire to keep adding organic
material."
Can anyone commment on the 'cons' of SQFT in the situation I describe in
light of the organic material requirement? Meaning: are your gardens
self-sufficiant or is it necessary to purchase the required organic materials?

Another section of the FAQ makes SQFT appealing because of the water
needs...or water shortage...during a no electricity situation.

The FAQ says: "Square foot gardening requires that you keep an eye on the
water needs of each block. Close planting tends to deplete water very
quickly. On the plus side, watering the garden is a snap because of the
small amount of space involved."

In light of my 'doomsday' scenario, can anyone comment or make suggestions
regarding SQFT for suppling food stock during such a chaotic situation? SQFT
seems perfect but I've never done it...that will begin during the Spring of
1998.

Finally, is anyone doing SQ FT farming using non-hybrid, open-pollenated
seed stock, as would be required without a supply of standard hybrids?
Please comment on the use of non-hybrids in this SQ FT environment.

As I said, I'm not proselytising doom and gloom; I am explaining my intended
application of SQ FT principles. It's a bizarre situation which I thought
needs to be explained so I can get full answers to my questions.

Any suggestions or comments not appropriate for this list are welcomed
directly to me at: sayers@cyberenet.net.

I'm open to discuss Year 2000 and will gladly supply URLs for the Year 2000
problem to anyone interested. I'm not selling anything! I'm just trying to
see if SQ FT gardening will work to get my family and friends through some
lean times ahead.

Any comments are welcome!

Thanks...

Bernie Sayers///

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                                 Know.
                                 Will.
                                 Dare.
                              Keep silent.

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