Nicole Alderman wrote:I've noticed that running ducks in an area where they poop out--and spill--a lot of their eggshells/oyster shells, there's no more buttercup. It did take a few years. Hopefully the calcium from the chickens will do the same in their yard (where the bindweed is). They haven't been interested in eating the bindweed, and so there hasn't been any change in their yard after a year of having them there. Maybe next year, though!
Valerie Dawnstar wrote:Dave Jacke & Mark Krawczyk are currently writing a book on that very topic. Please see http://www.coppiceagroforestry.com/
I just 'spoke' with an arborist friend of mine who said coppicing won't work to keep the EAB away as it is very small itself and attacks small branches. So forget it for that reason. But maybe it would make it easier to spot... ?
Eric Hanson wrote:Myron,
Sterling engines can be quite effective but at higher temperatures and pressures. There was a Sterling engine built in the US in the 60s? That was designed for undeveloped countries lacking infrastructure. Essentially, the idea was that they could be plopped on a fire and generate electricity. The idea was sound but failed due to a number of technical difficulties.
It is an interesting idea though.
I suggest the TEGs because of their lack of moving parts and ease of installation and operation. Your overall concept can be achieved using TEGs. You can buy TEGs for reasonable prices at a website I found called Tegmart.com (I am sure there are other sources as well).
TEGs do not have the same inherent efficacy of a Sterling engine, but their ease of setup can sometimes make up the difference. Also, TEGs are presently commercially available as opposed to Sterling engines. However, if you the ability to make a Sterling engine, you might be able to do some interesting stuff.
This is an interesting thread and I would love to hear how your plans develop. Please keep us informed.
Eric