Farm trees - more than breaking wind

The value of farm trees and shrubs will be on show when local landholders meet to discuss the benefits windbreaks can deliver for livestock, crops, pastures and biodiversity at Lucknow on Tuesday 01 May. 

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and the Central West Catchment Management Authority (CMA) are holding the free field day to highlight the importance of windbreaks in the lead up to what may be a cold, windy winter. 

NSW DPI advisory officer, Dhyan Blore, said well-designed windbreaks prove themselves   in tableland areas where they can improve lamb survival and live weight gain. 

“Many of the existing windbreaks in the Orange district were planted in the 1990s and it is important that landholders update their skills to ensure they know how to manage mature windbreaks,” Ms Blore said.  

“Grazing management to protect windbreaks plays an important role in maintaining their effectiveness, especially where low shelter is necessary to protect lambs and calves in cold, wet and windy conditions.  

“North-south orientated windbreaks also provide good shade from afternoon sun and ram fertility can be improved by the shade they provide, which reduces heat stress.” 

NSW DPI agronomist, Tony Cox, will discuss weed management and information will be presented on how windbreaks can enhance wildlife habitat and boost biodiversity. 

Numbers are limited and local landholders should contact Central West CMA officer, Tim Nalder, (02) 63638607 or 0438 224536 to register for the field day which starts at 9.30am and concludes with a barbecue lunch at 12.30pm. 

Information about the use of trees on farms is available from Dhyan Blore, 0428 376 037 or dhyan.blore@dpi.nsw.gov.au Digital photographs are available bernadette.york@dpi.nsw.gov.au

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