Living Snowfences in Kansas Click on the image above to download a complete copy of this publication in PDF format. Download a free copy of the Adobe Acrobat Reader. James H. Strine , District Forester, Northwest , Kansas Forest Service William L. Loucks , Conservation Forester , Kansas Forest Service Blowing and drifting snow closes many state, county, and private roads during winter in Kansas. A lot of time and money is spent annually on snow removal to provide access.
Tree plantings can protect roads from drifting snow and reduce snow removal costs.
The concept of using tree plantings to protect roads from drifting snow is not new. There are many examples of these living snowfences throughout the state. The use of slatted or plastic fences to protect roads from drifting snow has some disadvantages. These fences must be put up and taken down each year, requiring equipment and labor. The fencing material is costly and relatively short-lived compared with the life span of a living snowfence.