2026 Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation Training

This interactive workshop combines field based learning classroom exercises to explore the planning, design, establishment, evaluation, and renovation of windbreaks and shelterbelts. Participants will visit and assess existing windbreaks on a variety of sites, examining design considerations, effectiveness, maintenance needs, and opportunities for improvement.

Topics will include site preparation, planting stock selection, planting methods, species selection, row spacing, mulching, irrigation, pruning, insect and disease management, and long term maintenance strategies. Participants will also learn how to develop windbreak designs tailored to site-specific objectives and conditions. Through hands on exercises, attendees will design a windbreak for a sample site and develop a renovation plan for an existing windbreak or shelterbelt.

Following the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to join a Windbreak/Shelterbelt Cohort for continued learning and peer collaboration. Completion of one of these workshops is required for cohort participation.