Influence of Various Types of Field Windbreaks on Reducing Wind Velocities and Depositing Snow

Abstract

Abstract Comparisons were made of wind velocities and snowdrift patterns on the windward and leeward sides of windbreaks and slat barriers of varying numbers of rows, designs., and densities. Density was determined by placing a dotted grid over a picture enlargement and then computing the space occupied. Windbreaks and barriers which were permeable in the lower half of the structure caused snowdrifts to form over a wider area than the less permeable ones. Such permeable structures also reduced most erosive wind velocities to a nonerosive rate. Between a series of windbreaks spaced 400 feet apart wind velocities and snowdrift deposits indicated the series had no cumulative effect on wind reduction. Proper tillage practices must still be used in conjunction with windbreaks or other structures to control wind erosion of fields.