Klickitat County: Living Off The Grid

By Jerish Thieman


While modern conveniences such as electricity and running water certainly seem to make life easier in many ways, there are many people who are concerned with diminishing natural resources and dependence on foreign oil. While many of us have found ways to reduce our carbon footprint, some individuals take an extreme step toward total independence and choose to go off the grid.

There are many reasons why people choose to go off the grid. For some, it's about conservation and getting back to the land for a more self-sufficient lifestyle. For others, they wish to remove their dependence on society and live independently without depending on anyone else for their survival.

Some people worry that society might collapse or perhaps a large-scale natural disaster or even a widespread plague could alter the course of our nation, and they wish to prepare for any eventuality. No matter what reason one has for leaving the grid and going back to the land, Klickitat County in Washington offers many real estate options for those seeking a more independent life.

One of the main attractions of this county is its highly rural nature; there are more than 1,800 square miles of land, but only about 21,000 residents. It's far enough away from cities such as Seattle and Portland to be remote, yet if you need to venture into the city, they are only a few hours away. Some properties in the county are quite remote and highly isolated, off main roads, which might appeal to some buyers. Other buyers might prefer closer access to city roads and county roads or want to be within easy driving distance of a town, and those types of properties also are available. Simply contact the realtors at Klickitat Valley Realty and discuss your needs and budget with them.

While portions of Klickitat County are mountainous as the Cascade Mountains run through the county, there is plenty of good land for agriculture. You can find grazing land for livestock as well as land suitable for crops and large gardens. Hunting also is allowed throughout the county, although there are some restrictions, but you will find everything from wild turkey to deer to pheasant and other game animals. One challenge that all off-the-gridders face is locating good sources of water, and this should definitely be one of the priorities of your property search.

While water might be a challenge, energy sources are easier to come by. Solar panels can be used to harness energy from the sun and this county has excellent wind conditions, making wind energy a viable option for many. Propane also can be delivered to many locations throughout Klickitat County, offering you yet another source of heat and power. It is wise to purchase propane in bulk during the off-peak months to ensure the greatest financial savings.




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