Windbreaks
Farmsteads and field windbreaks reduce heating costs by reducing the wind. A windbreak planted around a farmstead is also referred to as a shelter belt. A properly placed windbreak can reduce the wind and dust blowing into homes and livestock areas. Windbreaks and living snowfences can improve the safety on our roads and driveways by catching snow before it blows across reducing visibility and creating ice and drifting. A diverse windbreak is also an oasis for wildlife escaping the elements, especially in the harsh Minnesota winters. It is important when establishing a windbreak to diversify the species used to prevent extensive losses from disease and insects. A list of trees and shrubs suitable for windbreaks are listed on the Anoka Conservation Districts tree and shrub order form.
