We recognize we are very privileged through many layers, we are being educated at a university and we have the ability to leave if we wanted to, we recognize this is other people’s reality and they do not have the option to quit. Most of all, we come from places with running water, a

For each of us, there is the goal of leaving with more knowledge of cooperative living and an awareness of resource usage. There are no markers for success, we are interested in the knowledge gained from the lived experience. We are also hoping to create a framework that scientists can create a sustainable model from,

Some of us know how to sprout and grow seeds and grains. We are experimenting with different varieties that are water-wise.

We are a group composed solely of women, so we discussed water allocation and water for personal hygiene comes out of our own water amounts. We are also willing to discuss variations in water allocation should the need arise.

We shop at a local market where farmers gather. We are also cooking our own food and depending on it not to be contaminated. We are aware of issues that might arise with certain food products, but we must take that risk and trust those who supply us with the food.

We haven’t found any food and water available from local plants, though that is something we are looking for. Due to the scarcity of resources and the remoteness of the area, that would be useful in our current social environment.

When we arrived to the motel, Severin left behind several resources for us, including Ostrom’s design principles for sustaining the commons. We are also being very intentional about being cooperative, checking in often with each other so that we do not create conflict between each other.

Yes, we have a first aid kit and we have people knowledgeable about natural remedies, but not indigenous medicine. Resources are limited; however we have some amount of homeopathic supplies including garlic and ginger

We do not have internet or cell phone service on site, to access cell service it requires a ten-minute bicycle ride and even then, the service is spotty. We do have a car, but with limited funds for gas, so we only leave to get groceries.

We each have three gallons to use for personal use, as of right now we have had surplus each day. We have 8 gallons of communal water should someone not have enough. We are aware of how much energy we are using and trying to conserve it. For example, if one of us goes on