Natalie Bogwalker: A Sustainable Living Pioneer
Natalie Bogwalker, a 44-year-old woman, has had quite a remarkable journey in pursuit of her dream to live sustainably. Growing up in rural Washington state, Bogwalker developed a love for nature and building, though she initially pursued a career in genetic engineering. However, a car accident at 19 made her reevaluate her life goals and she embarked on a quest to live a different kind of American dream.
After studying ecological agriculture and traveling around the world, Bogwalker settled in Western North Carolina. With a desire for community and self-sustainability, she bought 16 acres of land with two friends, sharing the purchase to keep control of their neighborhood. They built their own sustainable homes and embarked on a mutual aid-based lifestyle. Bogwalker decided to construct a small log cabin, initially measuring 400 square feet, made from pine logs she cut down herself from the overcrowded areas of her land. Seeking to create more space after becoming pregnant, she expanded the cabin to around 700 square feet by adding a covered porch and then later enclosing the rest of the porch to create a bedroom for her daughter.
During the construction process, Bogwalker hosted “work parties” where friends, community members, and DIY enthusiasts would come together to help with various tasks and projects. The process took time, effort, and emotional resilience, but ultimately allowed Bogwalker to not only build her own home but also form deep connections and friendships within her community.
Today, Bogwalker runs a permaculture and carpentry school called Wild Abundance on her land. With a team of staff members and instructors, she offers a variety of courses to women and men, emphasizing the empowerment of women in traditionally male-dominated industries. The classes range from basic carpentry skills to building tiny houses, with pricing based on a sliding scale that allows individuals to pay what they can.
Reflecting on her experience, Bogwalker advises aspiring DIY home builders to start small and be open-minded in the face of challenges. Her story is an inspiring testament to the possibilities of sustainable living, community building, and pursuing alternative paths to success.
