Jerry Ward: Alaska Homesteading and Bush Life

In this episode I speak with Jerry Ward, biologist, hunter, trapper, outdoor skills instructor, and homesteader who is creating a homestead from scratch outside of Fairbanks, AK and inviting interested folks to come learn firsthand about the homesteading lifestyle. We discuss Jerry’s interest and journey in learning self-reliance and outdoors skills, some of his experiences travelling the world, his current progress in his homesteading efforts and the ways he wishes to build community and educational opportunities through his homestead project on 11 acres of land situated 100 miles south of the Arctic Circle. We talk about the importance of disconnecting from the ills of society and reconnecting with the people and world around us as a whole. We also talk about the seasonal activities of a homesteader and the tools of a homesteader’s trade. In addition, we take the opportunity to wax philosophical about the ancient art of putting up firewood, doing difficult chores, and the satisfaction that hands on work directly related to immediate survival and comfort can bring, along with the opportunity for self-reflection and character building. 

Jerry’s Instagram

Jerry’s Email: [email protected]

Jerry’s Cell Phone# (907) 252-1885 

Book/Media Recommendations:

Dick Proenneke Books/Documentary:

One Man’s Wilderness Book

Alone in the Wilderness Documentary

More Readings from One Man’s Wilderness: The Journals of Dick Proenneke

Other Recommended Books:

The Snow Walker’s Companion

Arctic Homestead