Last Thursday's extraordinary windstorm should be a reminder that trees are a valuable resource on the southern prairies.
They reduce wind speeds and help protect lighter soils and crops from wind damage. They also provide a micro climate for more weather sensitive crops and more snow cover for winter crops.
It was noticeable that open fields cleared of trees were blowing more than fields that have trees.
A lot depended on soil texture and the amount of residues. Canola and pulse residues from last year were more prone to blowing. While cereal residues gave a lot more protection. Rolled pulse fields were also more prone to wind erosion.
Some think trees and wetlands cost them money. I think they actually save money in a many years.
Clearing all of the trees and taking out field shelterbelts is a bad idea. Last Thursday was a lesson for farmers on the value of trees.
They reduce wind speeds and help protect lighter soils and crops from wind damage. They also provide a micro climate for more weather sensitive crops and more snow cover for winter crops.
It was noticeable that open fields cleared of trees were blowing more than fields that have trees.
A lot depended on soil texture and the amount of residues. Canola and pulse residues from last year were more prone to blowing. While cereal residues gave a lot more protection. Rolled pulse fields were also more prone to wind erosion.
Some think trees and wetlands cost them money. I think they actually save money in a many years.
Clearing all of the trees and taking out field shelterbelts is a bad idea. Last Thursday was a lesson for farmers on the value of trees.
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