Shelterbelts

Reduced wind erosion

Lower rates of soil erosion during high winds, which can be significant in dry seasons and heatwaves. This has the added benefit of reducing airborne dust.

 

Water quality and soil health

Trees act as water filters by trapping sediment and taking up excess nutrient, preventing it from entering waterways and keeping water clean. Shelterbelts sited above waterways will slow run off and sedimentation, keeping streams and dams fresher.

 

Improved pasture and crop growth rates

The combination of reduced wind speed and shade serve to lower evaporation rates, preserving soil moisture levels. More productive pastures able to carry higher stocking rates, and more water to crops means better leaf growth and fruit quality. 

 

Stock protection

Shelterbelts protect stock from cold exposure and extreme heat. Stressed stock have lower growth rates and poorer quality because they lose energy attempting to maintain body temperature. As consumers demand more ethical production, shelterbelts can demonstrate a commitment to best practices. 

 

Higher stock survival and conception rates

Sheep and cattle in sheltered paddocks have higher growth rates and are ready for market faster than unsheltered stock. Ewes protected from temperature extremes have higher conception rates and their lambs have better survival and growth rates. 

 

Pasture management

Shelterbelts can be designed to create small, high-rotation paddocks which stock can be moved through to prevent overgrazing and allow time for regrowth of grass. 

 

Habitat for pollinators and biological pest control

Pollination is critical for fruit production, but it is also valuable in pastures for seed set in nitrogen-fixing plants such as clover. Shelterbelts that provide pollen and nectar rewards help honeybees, native pollinators and birds. Some of these animals will also act as pest control agents, reducing the need for pesticide applications.

 

Wood resources

Shelterbelts can be crops in their own right, providing timber for firewood and fencing, as fodder, or used in agroforestry timber production. Honey production, fruit and nut trees can also be incorporated in shelterbelt designs. Fruit and nuts trees will need to be sited correctly and most likely need irrigation.

Amenity value

Farms with shelterbelts have higher land values, are more private and are considered more aesthetically pleasing. Attractive plantings make a property pleasant to be in.

 

Biodiversity benefits

Planting native species can boost native plant species diversity and provide habitat for native animals. Linking to remnant vegetation is a good way to create corridors and get ecosystem services such as water filtering and capture in the soil, pollination, pest control and habitat for native birds and animals.

 

Fire Protection

Shelterbelts lower windspeeds and with the right tree species choice (low-flammable leaves or deciduous trees) they can act as firebreaks. Don’t site too near structures and always ensure access for fire-fighting vehicles.