Eco-Buffer Shelterbelts
Willow Creek Sub-District
|
Characteristics
|
Benefits
|
Project Overview
This producer planted a 2,250 seedling, 5 row eco-buffer shelterbelt. As part of the EIWD Shelterbelt program, conservation contracts are placed on shelterbelts that are established using the eco-buffer design.
Conservation contracts support the many benefits provided by the shelterbelt and recognize the landowner’s contribution. Payments support the landowner for the loss of use on the land that the shelterbelt was established on, and their contribution for the extended maintenance period, including weeding and watering of the shelterbelt. Environmentally the conservation contracts recognize the increase in pollinator and wildlife habitat, benefits of pollinators to nearby crops for increased yield, improved water cycle movement and carbons sequestration, increased diversity and density compared to a traditional shelterbelt.
This producer planted a 2,250 seedling, 5 row eco-buffer shelterbelt. As part of the EIWD Shelterbelt program, conservation contracts are placed on shelterbelts that are established using the eco-buffer design.
Conservation contracts support the many benefits provided by the shelterbelt and recognize the landowner’s contribution. Payments support the landowner for the loss of use on the land that the shelterbelt was established on, and their contribution for the extended maintenance period, including weeding and watering of the shelterbelt. Environmentally the conservation contracts recognize the increase in pollinator and wildlife habitat, benefits of pollinators to nearby crops for increased yield, improved water cycle movement and carbons sequestration, increased diversity and density compared to a traditional shelterbelt.
What is an Eco-Buffer Shelterbelt?
Eco-Buffers are a dense planting of a diverse mix of native species that are designed to mimic a natural forest habitat. The natural habitat is mimicked through a mix of fast growing trees, long lived trees, and tall and short shrubs. The diversity of the natural species allows for an eco-buffer shelterbelt to sustain it self long term with minimal ongoing maintenance once established.
What is an Eco-Buffer Shelterbelt Conservation Contract?
An Eco-Buffer Shelterbelt Conservation Contract is a 10-year agreement between a landowner and the EIWD. Under the agreement, landowners are expected to maintain their planted shelterbelt, including weeding & watering for 10 years, while receiving incentive payment over 5 years.
Process of an Eco-Buffer Shelterbelt Conservation Contract
Eco-Buffers are a dense planting of a diverse mix of native species that are designed to mimic a natural forest habitat. The natural habitat is mimicked through a mix of fast growing trees, long lived trees, and tall and short shrubs. The diversity of the natural species allows for an eco-buffer shelterbelt to sustain it self long term with minimal ongoing maintenance once established.
What is an Eco-Buffer Shelterbelt Conservation Contract?
An Eco-Buffer Shelterbelt Conservation Contract is a 10-year agreement between a landowner and the EIWD. Under the agreement, landowners are expected to maintain their planted shelterbelt, including weeding & watering for 10 years, while receiving incentive payment over 5 years.
Process of an Eco-Buffer Shelterbelt Conservation Contract
- Complete an Eco-Buffer shelterbelt project through the EIWD.
- EIWD prepares the agreement based on the acreage, which is then signed by the landowner.
- Annual incentive payments are issued each December 1st for the duration of the 5-year contract.
- EIWD monitors each site throughout the 10-year period ensuring agreement has not been violated.
