University of Nebraska Field windbreaks increase yields in sunflowers and other crops, resulting in net gains in productivity and increased economic returns. For additional details, see EC91-1765. The overall level of productivity achieved is dependent upon the ability to coordinate and manage simultaneously the soil, water, plant and animal resources within climatic and economic limits. Both the kind and amount of plants and animals supported by the system are important and play significant roles, both individually and collectively in maintaining a healthy farm environment. In the future, integrated systems will help reduce human impact on resources while providing sufficient supplies of high quality food and fiber.
Windbreaks provide protection for people, animals, buildings, crops, and natural resources.
They reduce soil erosion by wind and contribute to the control of runoff from agricultural lands. Individually, trees and shrubs can provide food and shelter for wildlife or be harvested for timber and fuelwood. Specialized tree crops, such as fruits or nuts, can be harvested from windbreaks providing additional economic returns. Windbreaks in Agriculture Trees and shrubs have an important role to play in today's integrated agricultural systems. Riparian forests provide valuable wildlife habitat and timber, erosion protection for stream and river banks, and act as filter strips for agricultural runoff, protecting water quality and fish habitat.