Milk production has gone up since the first trees were plantedfour years ago but Neil and John say it is difficult to attributeall of the increase to the trees because they have made otherimprovements to their farming methods. Tree plantings now comprise13 per cent of the farm. Neil and John intend further plantingson a newly acquired 60 ha block. A more comfortable and enjoyable working environment. A concern about the decline and loss of remnant vegetationon the farm.
Tree plantings add value to the property.
A comprehensive study of soils, groundwater, salinityand climatic factors was undertaken as a basis for the plan togive the venture the best chances of success. In developing their Sunny Hills orchard, south-east ofDonnybrook, Helgo and his wife, Helga have introduced farm forestryto their property. Helgo says the farm forestry component arose simply because someof his land was not suitable for orchard trees. Relatively low inputs are required to establish and managethe trees. Trees are seen as a low risk investment.