Field Windbreak
 |
 |
| Field windbreaks help conserve irreplaceable
topsoil and increase crop yields, while they provide wildlife
habitat and add beauty and grace to the land. |
Few things illustrate the many benefits of trees better than field
windbreaks. While providing all of the other gifts of trees--from
the production of oxygen to landscape beautification—windbreaks
slow the wind, help retain moisture, protect valuable topsoil, and
serve as corridors for wildlife.
Americans first learned the conservation value of these working
trees during the Dust Bowl years of the 1930’s. Today, windbreaks
are adding beauty and grace to rural landscapes across the country,
while they help conserve irreplaceable natural resources. They also
have added benefits, including providing homes for bats and birds
that help control insects.
Principles you can use…
In planning field windbreaks, one or two rows can provide efficient
wind protection, and trees should be placed at right angles to hot,
drying winds. The selection of trees is also vital. Tall, fast-growing
trees are most effective as the backbone of a windbreak. Smaller
species, either alternating within a single row or forming a second
row, block wind flow closer to the ground. And of course, species
must be selected that are appropriate for local soils, climate,
and growing conditions. For many uses, evergreens are ideal with
their year-round foliage, but deciduous trees and shrubs can also
be a good choice, especially in combination with evergreens.
Where they exist, natural windbreaks can be preserved and incorporated
into windbreak design. Natural windbreaks include old hedgerows,
trees lining rivers and streams, and stands of native trees and
shrubs.
By planning carefully, including working with natural windbreaks
where appropriate, you can enjoy the many conservation benefits
of these working trees.
To learn more…
Publications:
To receive the Arbor Day Foundation’s free “Conservation
Trees” booklet, write to: Conservation Trees, c/o The National
Arbor Day Foundation, 211 N. 12th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508.
Web sites:
More information on field windbreaks can be found at the following
Web sites:
The
Arbor Day Foundation - for additional conservation
information or to order the “Conservation Trees” booklet
on-line.
The USDA National Agroforestry Center -
A partnership of the USDA Forest Service and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
The
Natural Resources Conservation Service – for helpful information
on windbreaks and related conservation practices.
|
