These windbreaks functioned into the 1960's, when, because of low energy costs and high farmland values, many of them were removed. Renewed interests in windbreaks surfaced during the energy crisis of the 1970's and continues today.
Windbreaks provide many benefits.
Windbreaks reduce wind speeds, control snow drifting and accumulation in farmsteads, provide wildlife habitat, enhance farmstead value, and provide a more pleasant environment. Reduced wind speeds in winter months provide monetary benefits. Homes or confinement buildings require 7 to 25 percent less fuel for heating. Livestock protected by a windbreak are 3-7 percent more efficient in conversion of feed to weight gain. Other benefits of windbreaks are measured in quality of life improvement.