Shelterbelts or field windbreaks are economically sound 

 investments if they increase the net returns from a farming or 

 ranching enterprise, prevent deterioration of farm soils from 

 wind erosion, or improve the outlook and wellbeing of people « 



Many farmers and ranchers in Montana desire to plant trees 

 more for the aesthetic effects than any other reason- Such 

 plantings will most likely accomplish their intended purpose. 

 However, when such landowners wish to also increase production 

 of field crops and to accomplish this with little or no main- 

 tenance cost, technicians must have adequate knowledge to advise 

 these landowners of the merit of the proposal. 



The following are Agricultural Conservation Program prac- 

 tices available in Montana for establishment of shelterbelts 

 and wildlife plants. 



H-2 . Renovation of existing shelterbelts, windbreaks s or 

 stands of trees on farmland visible to the public. The purpose 

 of this practice is to clean out dead trees and shrubs, or remove 

 rows that are interfering with the development of more desirable 

 species o Cost-sharing is also authorized for reinforcement 

 plantings where these measures are needed to make the stand 

 effectively serve its beautification-conservation purpose. 



Elimination of sod competition by mechanical means will be 

 approved where competition is seriously affecting tree vigor., 



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