The Trees for Mapleton committee is encouraging farmers and land owners to consider using plastic mulch when completing a windbreak project on their farm.
Plastic mulch reduces tending and maintenance required after tree planting by suppressing weeds and grasses that grow around newly planted trees as well as increasing moisture retention in the surrounding soil.
Wellington County’s Rural Water Quality program provides 80% funding towards eligible tree planting and living snow fence projects including the installation of plastic mulch. Trees for Mapleton will provide funding for the remaining 20 per cent of expenses to cover 100% of the costs of plastic mulch installation.
The Trees for Mapleton committee can provide support for landowners by sourcing equipment required to lay plastic mulch or by providing guidance for mulch installation prior to planting. A well designed and managed windbreak can increase crop yields and provide many immediate and future benefits for farms.
Grand River Conservation Authority forestry specialist Meghan Clay can help farmers plan a windbreak or living snow fence on their property and will help landowners apply for funding programs through the Rural Water Quality Program.
To qualify for the Rural Water Quality Program landowners are required to have an environmental farm plan for the property. Projects are reviewed by a committee and are capped at $7,500 per farm.
For more information contact Clay at 519-621-2763 ext. 2259 or mclay@grandriver.ca.
Submitted by Liz Samis
