NEWS

U.S. Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service
9173 W. Barnes Dr., Suite B
Boise, Idaho 83709

For more information:
Kristen Clayton, Public Affairs Specialist
208.522.6250, x 112

REPRESENTATIVE SHIRLEY PROMOTES WINDBREAKS

REXBURG—Mack Shirley, State Representative for District 34, knows firsthand that windbreaks work.

Twenty-five years ago, Shirley read an article in his local newspaper about windbreaks. Farm ground surrounded his house west of Rexburg and there was no way to enjoy a BBQ outside without getting blown away.

He worked with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to design a windbreak of honeysuckle, poplar and blue spruce around two sides of his house. Then, the Madison Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) helped him get the seedlings for a mere $0.25 each.

“The wind doesn’t interrupt us now.” he says. “This windbreak really works. We have wildlife—birds, and deer come up from the river and I’ve even seen a moose. I’m a real advocate of windbreaks.”

Shirley is also pleased with the other benefits. “The value of the trees increases your property value. These 25-cent trees are worth a lot more in landscape value now.” 

Other benefits of windbreaks could be seen on the Madison SWCD’s recent field tour. In addition to stopping at Shirley’s, participants viewed a new windbreak created through the NRCS’ Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) that also protects a nearby stream bank.  Another windbreak, established two years ago, was flourishing and helping an alfalfa grower to increase his yields by protecting the crop from the wind. Windbreaks also serve as a good way to stop wind erosion and, depending on what species of trees are planted, are a great benefit to wildlife.

The early maintenance required for a young windbreak is well worth it, just ask Representative Shirley. “I don’t have to do much to it now. It’s pretty low maintenance and we really enjoy it.”

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