Caleb Erskine and John Brooks will offer a yurt building course from June 24-26 at Hidden Valley Nature Center. Participants will learn about the theory, structural integrity and application of yurts, which have been a practical, low impact, sustainable living structure for thousands of years. Evolving from the traditional Gers of Mongolia to contemporary yurts offering features like French doors and fixed windows, “Living in the Round” was a practical concept for shelter long before the introduction of the four walls we now define as living space. “I believe we are starting to see a paradigm shift in the way we are viewing ‘shelter’,” Erskine says. “This light, nimble lifestyle allows for greater personal and financial freedom, all while being an incredibly light footprint and sustainable.”

From basic, readily-available raw materials, participants will learn how to build and raise a space/dwelling that is entirely adaptable and transportable to virtually any location and climate. Many design aspects will be covered including applications and uses, size and dimensions, insulation techniques, commercial uses, zoning and approval considerations, and historical overview, as well as an overview of how to accommodate chimney stands, heating, cistern systems, doors and windows, how domes are made, exposure, platform technique and layout.

This course is suitable for all skill levels, and all tools and materials will be provided.

A light breakfast and full lunch will be offered each day, along with a cookout, music, and storytelling Saturday night. Participants are encouraged to dwell on-site in portable yurts that will be provided as part of the course. Bring sleeping bags and toiletries.

The course will go from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The course fee is $400 for Midcoast Conservancy members, $450 for non-members. To register, go to midcoastconservancy.org/events.

Caleb Erskine is the owner of Living Intent Yurt Company, based in South Bristol. John Brooks is an instructor on low impact, sustainable living.

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