• reduce wind erosion of the soil
• increase pasture growth by up to 60 % on exposed sites
• increase crop yields by up to 25 %
• increase stock weight gain by up to 34 %
• increase milk production

Establishment
Weed  control is important to ensure the plantings grow well. Stock proof fences at least 2 m away are required to keep livestock from damaging the plantings. Fertilisers may be used sparingly when required.

Tall Fast Growing Species

Medium Growing Species

Low Shelter Species

• Plant at 4m intervals for farm shelterbelts.
• Plant at 2-3 m intervals for horticulture shelterbelts.
• Shelterbelts should be at 90 degrees to the prevailing wind.
• Woodlots on suitable sites are more productive.
• Bare stemmed species such as Eucalyptus can be supplemented with a second row of shrub species.
• Planting along roadsides, streams or fence lines reduces pasture loss as a result of shading.

• Planting smaller species on the lee slope.
• Taller shelter should be concentrated on the more productive areas.
• Locate shelterbelts near ridge crests where wind speeds are high but not on the crest to maintain landscape features.
• Locate shelterbelts in saddles.
• Scatter groups of trees in open areas to reduce exposure.