welcome to the

     Douglas county conservation district

serving landowners in Douglas County, Colorado for over 50 years

                                Box 688, 7519 E. Hwy 86, Franktown, CO 80116, 303-688-3042 ext. 100

Why do you want a windbreak?

Generally, the primary reason for rural landowners is to protect themselves from wind.  By planting a windbreak, you create your own "wind shadow" on the downward side.

Here is a diagram showing the windbreak area of protection:

Note the 100 feet of windbreak that extends beyond the house and barn.  This is necessary to reduce the effect of "wind eddies."

This protected area extends to a distance of 15 to 20 times the height of the windbreaks tallest trees; the most effective area is about 10 times the height of the windbreak as illustrated in the diagram below.