The 1980s, fueled by lessened demand for grain exports, signaled the return to more prudent land management practices which safeguarded our soil, water and wildlife resources. Today, a renewed interest in the restoration of farmstead shelterbelts exists. Here you will find the numerous benefits of shelterbelts and explanations of how to establish shelterbelts on your farmstead. With today's rising energy costs this can provide substantial savings for the farmer and help our nation become less dependent on foreign energy sources. By reducing wind chills shelterbelts can cut feed costs.
Livestock require less feed to maintain body weight when protected from winter's chilling winds.
Shelterbelts can also minimize calf losses and make feeding operations easier. Research has shown that shelterbelts are an important link in the survival of wildlife. One research study identified 92 different bird species that utilized shelterbelt habitat in the summer. In areas of intense agriculture when habitat is scarce shelterbelts can play an important role during spring and fall migration of song birds. A well designed shelterbelt provides loafing, feeding, roosting and escape cover for ring-necked pheasants.