This ground cover, especially shelterbelts and riparian area plantings, removes large quantities of carbon dioxide directly from the air. As carbon sinks, these plantings keep carbon with the soil, where it is most beneficial. Research at the Shelterbelt Centre has provided estimates of how much carbon is fixed in prairie shelterbelts and the rate at which it is accumulated. More info PFRA's Shelterbelt Centre PFRA's Shelterbelt Centre distributes seedlings for planting shelterbelts and for conservation and land reclamation projects in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and the Peace River region of British Columbia. Over six million will be delivered this year, contributing to a healthy Prairie landscape.
Shelterbelts reduce wind erosion and trap snow for water conservation.
They also provide both a food supply and cover for wildlife. The Shelterbelt Centre's research has resulted in the development of at least a dozen new varieties of shrubs and trees beneficial to wildlife in shelterbelts. Prairie Drought Watch provides timely information regarding the extent of climatic variability and its potential influence on Prairie water supplies and agriculture. Ongoing monitoring of the impacts on water supplies, soil degradation, and agricultural production is essential to the region's preparedness in dealing with drought. Inititative SWWI promotes practices to sustain the existing water well infrastructure by providing improved advice to rural clients on the diagnosis, prevention, and rehabilitation of water well problems.