Shelterbelts and agricultural benefits

By Brandie Majeau
As communities, municipalities and counties begin rolling out their purchase orders to
encourage their residents in participating in shelter belt programs the prevailing mind set
makes one think of wind breaks and privacy. Underlying this prominent use of a shelterbelt is
steeped with agricultural practices designed to manage and protect farmsteads. In addition to
their agricultural impact, shelter belts have a positive effect on climate change, including micro-
ecosystems tucked within their branches and roots.
With the advancement of agricultural equipment and the desire to increase production
and maximize speed and proficiency, many farmsteads have experienced the loss of
shelterbelts as bigger agriculturalists remove trees for the efficiency of their equipment and
agricultural practices. This loss affects more than a visual impact. Shelterbelts have been used
for years as a means to reduce erosion and control dust. These lines also work as a natural
snow fence that captures the build up of snow, thus maintaining moisture that may otherwise
be lost to the farmland during spring thaw. In other terms of moisture, shelterbelts may also
hold and conserve moisture as well as purify the ground water surrounding it.
These magnificent rows of trees, bushes and shrubs also provide shelter for livestock
and other animals, offering them defences against the elements in addition to protection from
extreme temperatures year-round. These areas also become habitats for wildlife. Many
shelterbelt programs are now offering the sale of pollinator bundles to be incorporated into the
design. This further encourages wildlife into the area as well as birds and insects, beneficial to
the overall impact and success of plant growth and development within the shelterbelt and the
surrounding land.
In addition to the phenomenal way trees improve air quality and provide a variety of
fruits and nuts suitable for both man and beast, the shelter belt enhances and beautifies the
world around it. Look into your local municipality to find out if they offer low rates on seedlings
for the development of windbreaks and hedgerows. Many areas also offer workshops and
courses that discuss the science and ecological impact, the success and proper planning for
establishing shelterbelts as well as the maintenance and care required to ensure their survival.
They may also teach disease identification, treatment and troubleshooting. Plant a tree. Plant a
row of trees. Leave a legacy that leaves the world a little better place.