Native Shelter Belts

Native shelterbelts are barriers formed by native plants that are planted or kept in such a way as to reduce windspeed on both sides of the shelterbelt.

The benefits of such a shelterbelt are well recognized as they have been shown to help in protection of stock and crops, reduction in soil erosion and salinity issues, improvements in living environment, as well as increasing biodiversity.

As excellent summary of the benefits can be found in a comprehensive document published by the BasalttoBay Landcare Group entitled “Economic Benefits of Native Shelter Belts” https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/8865639/Basalt%20to%20Bay/EBONS-Report-2-2014_Final.pdf

DEPI provides considerable information on shelterbelt design and management, effect on wind erosion and impacts on wildlife on their site under the section on Erosion

http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/agriculture-and-food/farm-management/soil-and-water/erosion

Land for Wildlife is a voluntary program run by the State Government, which provides information for landholders wishing to protect biodiversity values on their property. 

You can sign up here.  

If you want to understand more about protecting the conservation values of your property check out: "How to Plan Wildlife Landscapes for Community"