Protect Your Goodhue County Land: Now is the Time to Plan Windbreaks

As winter winds howl across Minnesota and summer storms become more unpredictable, there has never been a better time to protect your property, livestock, and topsoil. A well-planned windbreak is more than just a line of trees—it is a long-term investment in your farm or acreage that provides a solid return through energy savings, reduced soil erosion, and enhanced wildlife habitat.

Whether you are looking to create a cozy, sheltered homestead or boost your agricultural production, establishing a, robust, multi-species windbreak is essential.

Key Benefits for Goodhue County Landowners

·         Reduced Heating Costs & Snow Control: Properly designed windbreaks can significantly lower winter heating costs for homes and barns while managing drifting snow, saving on maintenance.

·         Protect Livestock: Livestock exposed to harsh winds experience more stress. A windbreak provides a crucial, warmer environment for animals.

·         Increase Crop Yields: By reducing wind speed across fields, you prevent soil erosion and protect crops from desiccation, leading to better yields.

·         Improve Odor Management: For livestock producers, strategically placed trees can reduce downwind odor concentration.

What to Plant (Best Choices for Goodhue county)

For long-lasting effectiveness, a mix of coniferous trees, shrubs and deciduous trees is recommended.

·         Evergreens (Year-Round Protection): White Spruce, Black Hills Spruce, Techny Arborvitae, and Eastern White Pine.

·         Shrubs: Hazelnuts, Nannyberry, Cranberry, Dogwood and Chokeberry

·         Deciduous Trees: Oaks, Maples, Cherry and Hackberry

Contact Goodhue SWCD to check for available cost-share programs and to order seedlings: https://www.goodhueswcd.org/online-store