Windbreaks - a plus for livestock and wildlife

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 in the Bathurst district on Tuesday May 29.

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 Bathurst 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 livestock officer, Jane Kelly, will talk to producers about managing sheep through the coming winter supported by NSW DPI agronomist, Jenene Kidston, who will discuss effective weed management.

Central West CMA officer, Clayton Miller, will outline how windbreaks can enhance wildlife habitat and boost biodiversity.

Numbers are limited and local landholders should contact Clayton Miller, (02) 6339 4905 or clayton.miller@cma.nsw.gov.au 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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