http://gristmill.grist.org/comments/2005/6/17/205223/211/1#1

This living without ownership of the land brings up an idea I have had.

I envision nature conservancy areas that feature large windpower systems that feed power back into the grid and at the same time provide low impact high tech camping for voluntarilly homeless people.

The wind power would pay the taxes and upkeep, and provide green energy for the residents.  

Students, young families starting out, retirees traveling and camping, and just dedicated nature lovers could use these living areas to save money for school, to buy homes, or just to have a low energy and consumption impact on the environment.

Make homelessness voluntary and patriotic, saving energy for the good of all of US!  And an added benefit is green energy for the national power grid and more land under conservation.

The impact on the land itself from camping could be minimized with portable platforms for tents that have built in wind electric heat, power, water, internet access, and bike/ski trails for physical access.

Electric buses with area for bikes and gear could provide access to and from the camping area to mass transportation, allowing car free living and travel.

Residents  could even rent cars to go from area to area...cruising the country's natural beauty and staying in one area for days or years before moving on.

It's a radically low impact solution that many people would love!