In a remote and picturesque corner of northwestern Montana, Jon and Etta Smith are set to construct a self-sustaining "off-the-grid" farm house and bison ranch in DIY Network's BUILDING OFF THE GRID: BIG SKY RANCH. Premiering Thursday, May 5, at 10 p.m. ET/PT, the six-episode arc follows the husband-and-wife duo as they build their rustic-style ranch from the ground up before winter arrives.
"It's been my dream since I was a kid to be a rancher and now it's our dream to tackle this build together," said Jon. The series follows the couple as they build a 2,200-square foot house, a corral and feeding system for the bison and an edible garden that allows them to live freely and comfortably on the open range. Jon and Etta, along with help from local construction and ranching experts, dig an artisanal well for fresh water and install a windmill and propane tanks for power. In addition to the challenges of living out in the wilderness - such as chasing off bears and rattle snakes - THE FAMILY learns how to live off the land and barter with neighbors who live miles away. "Trading out here is the way of life," said Etta. "I trade a lot more than money exchanges hands and I like it that way."Videos