Sir:
Thank you for your continuing work.
1. How would you suggest we research micro-climates in areas of interest in the American Redoubt [1]?
2. For those of us in the 50-60 age group, single, and raising grandchildren is there a place for us? I don’t believe I have the physical strength/endurance and certainly not knowledge to forge out a place in the “wilderness” at this age. How about the possibility of teaming up with a family who needs a “grandma” and extra pair of hands to help with domestic/garden duties?
Yes, I do have skills I could make a living most likely as long as there is high speed internet access. But would prefer not to rely on its existence if I could.
May I suggest that you add a FAQ on the American Redoubt Page?
The Lord’s Blessings on you and your family. – Maggie B.
JWR Replies: The old saying is: “Climate is what you expect, and weather is what you get.”
To start your research, see:
The widely-cited Climate zones map [2] (from the publishers of Sunset magazine.)
Microclimates [3] (“In the real world, we garden in micro-climates, not hardiness zones.”)
Western Regional Climate Center [4] (and drill down to the wealth of information here: Historical Climate Information [5])
Climate Maps [6]
Climate Central [8]
Wind velocity map [10]
Gardening in the Inland Northwest [11]
Be sure to also look at soil maps [12]
Then, moving down to the state and local level, see:
Introduction to short-season gardening in Idaho [14]
Western Montana [15]
Cold Climate Gardening – how we do it here in Wyoming [16]
Gardening in Eastern Washington [17]
Oregon Gardening [18]
After you do your basic research at the state level, it is best to check with the NRCS extension office [19] in each of the counties that you are considering, for their insights on microclimates.