Conservation Tree Sales
Why Plant a Windbreak? Windbreaks and shelterbelts provide many benefits. Windbreaks planted along field boundaries reduce soil erosion by reducing wind velocity. Shelterbelts planted around farmsteads reduce heating costs in homes and shop buildings. Shelterbelts can protect livestock from blizzards and serve as "living snow fences." Trees and shrubs also provide food, shelter and nesting habitat for many species of birds and mammals.
NRD Tree & Shrub Plantings: Contact the NRD Office or your county NRCS for help in determining the type and number of trees and shrubs you need. The technician will make arrangements for the tree order and planting service. The NRD will plant the trees according to the plan. Trees are planted in the spring as soon as conditions are suitable. The NRD tree planting crew will notify landowners as to the approximate date and time of the planting.
Site Preparation: Good site preparation is a key to rapid tree growth and survival. The best site preparation begins the year before the trees are planted. On heavier soils, working the ground to kill competing vegetation is an excellent method of preparing the site. The technician assisting in planning a windbreak or habitat plot can advise you about the typeof site preparation needed. The technician can also help you determine if herbicide carryover will be a problem.
Weed Control: Weed control in the form of plastic mulch is available through th district. This woven material is installed over the trees after planting. Slots are then cut for the trees. Plastic mulch not only elimiates weeds but also helps to preserve soil moisture.
Planting Your Own Trees: You can order trees and shrubs at the NRD or your local NRCS Office. Orders must be in multiples of 25 per species.
Windbreak Renovation: Cost-share is available for removing old windbreaks and plating new ones. It is best to plan a windbreak renovation at least one year in advance to allow for cost-share application, old windbreak removal, prper ground preparation and seedling planting. The site must be inspected prior to starting any work. Your NRCS office can help with the plans and paperwork.
Pricing:
Trees and Shrubs: 60¢ each/multiples of 25
Tree Planting (no mulch): 50¢ per foot
Pull-In Charge: $20.00
Conservation Mulch (Material Only): 35¢ per foot
Trees, Tree Planting, Mulch and Mulch Laying:
Tilled Sites: $1.10 per foot
Untilled Sites: $1.25 per foot
Drip Tape: 35¢ per foot
(Discount for larger plantings)
Stakes: 15¢ each
Seedling Tubes: $1.10 each
Minimum Plan Charge: $350 per planting
Check out these related websites!
NARD's Conservation Trees Website
For more information about Tri-Basin NRD's Conservation Tree Sales Program, email Charles Brooks at cbrooks@tribasinnrd.org.