Building Off the Grid: Big Sky Ranch

In the foothills of the Mission Mountains in Western Central Montana, Jon and Etta Smith have built their off the grid house from the foundation up to the roof, but this late into the winter, forces them to deal with bitter cold and high winds every day. They're anxious to get started on the new well, but once again, 'Montana time' has set them back, and they're stuck waiting for the well drillers. In the meantime, they still need to work on the windmill, which will eventually pump their well, and take care of their new investment, the bison.

For better or for worse, winter has taken a firm hold in Montana, which makes for less than ideal working conditions on Jon and Etta's off the grid house and ranch. In a mad dash to finish the exterior of their house before yet another big Montana storm hits, interior work has been put on hold. With cold temperatures and little daylight to work with, every baby step they make is a victory in its own right.

After construction delays pushed construction into the dead of winter, Jon and Etta Smith are finally nearing the end of their house and bison ranch build. Now, the finishing touches are falling into place, including the custom stone fireplace, solar panels and furniture. After all the delays and hard work, Jon and Etta will finally get to enjoy the fruits of their labor.