Windbreaks for Poultry Houses
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Windbreaks for Poultry Houses
Trees and shrubs planted near poultry houses improve air quality, create visual screens, and protect against winter winds and provide shade.
Description
One to three rows of trees and shrubs are planted adjacent to poultry houses. AT least one row is usually planted with evergreens.
Benefits
- Windbreaks next to poultry houses improve air quality by trapping bits of feathers, ammonia, and other odors that are blown out of ventilation fans.
- Windbreaks may reduce energy costs by keeping poultry houses cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
- Plantings may also be used as visual barriers to screen the production area from nearby roads and neighbors and improve farm appearance.
Planning
- Consider on-farm traffic patterns, wind direction, adjacent drainage ditches, and neighbors.
- What types of plants are suitable for the site?
- Are utility lines nearby?
- Is a water source available for temporary drip irrigation during establishment?
- What setbacks are needed to allow equipment access to poultry houses?
Tech Notes
- Work with the Soil Conservation District to select plants for the windbreak type and configuration.
- Additional site preparation may be needed around buildings and other structures.
- Soil may be heavily compacted or contaminated with construction debris, gravel, and other fill material and may severely limit plant rooting and survival.
- Planting one to two gallon container plants int he spring, along with irrigation and good week control, produces the best results for plant survival and growth.
Maintenance
- Troubleshooting survival problems before replanting.
- Replace dead trees and shrubs as needed.
- Control weeds and other undesirable vegetation.