Snow storage potential can be manipulated by barrier height. Density Determine the density of a living snow fence by the species, number of rows, spacing between rows, and spacing of plants in a row. A 50 percnet dense barrier stores the greatest amount of snow if other factors are equal. Between row spacing can vary depending on design criteria and objectives. Twin row high-density plantings are recommended.
Preferred species are evergreens, shrubs, and low growing broadleaf trees.
Length Length determines the maximum area that can be protected if winds are perpendicular to it. Snow storage at the ends of a barrier is significantly less than near the center. Barrier design must extend far enough beyond the protected area to intercept winds that deviate 25 degrees from either direction of perpendicular. If livestock can access the site, then fencing will be necessary to plantings. Significant damage can occur from trampling, rubbing, and browsing.