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Field Windbreaks

Field Windbreaks - CP 5A  (Practice Code: 392)

Field windbreaks, or hedgerow plantings, consist of a row or rows of trees, shrubs or other plants located along crop field borders or within the field itself. Coniferous trees or a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees can be used, along with one or two rows of shrubs.

Benefits of field windbreaks are to reduce wind erosion, protect young crops and control blowing snow by acting as a snow fence. Windbreaks also conserve energy used for heating and cooling, improve crop yields, serve as a sound barrier and provide food for wildlife. They protect livestock, wildlife, houses and farm buildings. The trees and shrubs slow wind on the downwind side of the windbreak for a distance of 10 times the height of the trees.

Requirements/Maintenance: When planting a field windbreak, do not plant too close to buildings, roads or driveways on north and west sides as snow may accumulate in these areas. Also, avoid planting windbreaks on the south or east sides of roads or driveways as the trees will shade the road and prolong icy conditions. Remember to control competing vegetation with tillage or herbicides before planting and for the first years after planting. Consider whether the mature windbreak will cause a vision hazard for drivers. Keep plantings at least 20 to 30 feet away from phone or utility lines. Fence out livestock and be sure to inspect the windbreak regularly to control damage.

To enhance field windbreak effectiveness, space trees 10-12 feet apart and shrubs 4-8 feet apart. A mix of conifers, deciduous trees and shrubs provides the best cover for wildlife. 

The following field windbreak images were photographed on land in the Lake Erie Buffer region.

Field Windbreak A great example of a field windbreak, located in Hancock County.  (Click photo for larger image)

 

Aerial photo of Field Windbreak A nice aerial shot of a farmstead windbreak close to the owner's home.  (Click photo for larger image)

 

Field Windbreak A close-up image of a field windbreak in the fall.  (Click photo for larger image)

 

 

For further information on conservation buffers, visit the following pages:

Ohio Lake Erie Buffer Office ~ 3900 Campus Drive Suite A ~ Lima, OH 45804

Information on this site is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. The Ohio Lake Erie Buffer Program disclaims any liability for any errors or omissions. The Ohio Lake Erie Buffer Team prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or family status.

Modified by Benjamin Marckel, January 2003