Windbreak vegetation refers to trees and bushes planted strategically around a structure to deflect wind. This landscape design strategy is utilized to minimize heating costs caused by cold winter winds. In addition to financial savings windbreak vegetation also:

• reduces soil erosion
• provides a habitat for animals
• increases on-site carbon sequestration
• provides a visual barrier (AT/FP)

Figure 1. Wind velocity diagram with a wind break

Trees and bushes are the most common types of plants used for windbreaks. Native or adaptive vegetation should be utilized regardless the plant type in order to minimize irrigation and maintenance requirements. The windbreak should be positioned to block and redirect prevailing winds. The distance between the vegetation and the structure will depend on the mature height of the tree or shrub. As noted above, windbreaks provide habitats for animals, including birds. This is an important consideration if the windbreak is to be placed near a runway.

Plant selection should ensure sufficient growth density to prevent wind from excessively penetrating the windbreak.

Figure 2. Typical coniferous wind break