Explore The Workshop On Soil And Benefits Of Shelterbelts On-Farm

The recent workshop on soil health and shelterbelts in South East South Australia, hosted by the Limestone Coast Landscape Board, farm shed light on the remarkable benefits of shelterbelts on-farm. These vegetative barriers, designed to reduce wind speed, have proven to be invaluable for Australian farmers, delivering substantial gains in on-farm productivity.

Shelterbelts have demonstrated the potential to increase pasture yields by an impressive 20 to 30 percent while also contributing to live weight gains of up to 20 percent. In addition to these gains, they effectively halve lamb mortality rates and provide a substantial boost of up to 25 percent in crop yields. Remarkably, these benefits are achieved without compromising overall production, as up to 10–30 percent of a farm can be dedicated to native vegetation without adverse effects.

During the workshop, farmers discovered that the advantages of shelterbelts extend far beyond increased productivity. These vegetative barriers, consisting of native species, not only safeguard livestock and crops but also enhance the overall value of the properties they adorn. A survey conducted as part of the workshop aimed to gather insights to support future research and extension work related to shelterbelts.

The positive impact of shelterbelts radiates into the paddock, affecting the microclimate up to ten times the height of the tallest trees within the shelterbelt. By effectively breaking wind speed while allowing air cushions to flow through to the leeward side, shelterbelts offer an optimal solution to wind-related challenges.

For those interested in establishing shelterbelts, it is recommended to consider planting local species and creating a shelterbelt with a minimum of three rows of trees and shrubs, resulting in a total width of 20 to 30 meters. Shrubs are particularly beneficial for the outermost layer of the shelterbelt, filling gaps beneath the taller trees in the center of the plantation.

Aside from their significant on-farm productivity benefits, shelterbelts also serve as safe havens for local birds and wildlife, particularly when they are strategically placed near existing trees and shrubs. This harmonious coexistence between agriculture and the environment underscores the multifaceted advantages of shelterbelts in Australian farming practices.