Municipality of Taber

The many benefits of shelterbelts

The Municipal District of Taber Agricultural Service Board designed the shelterbelt program to help those with a minimum five-acre property, establish tree lines around their yards and fields. These trees serve multiple purposes: they act as windbreaks for fields and farmyards, provide habitats for wildlife, and enhance the scenic beauty of the countryside.

Traditionally, shelterbelts were multiple rows of trees lining a driveway or bordering farm fields. Eco-buffers, established using different planting configurations, bring additional benefits to environmental conservation.

How to apply for the program

Thinking of starting a shelterbelt? The best time to start planning for next year is now. Costs are shared equally between the MD of Taber and the landowner, and Agricultural Services will help with planting and setting up drip irrigation if water is available nearby.

Please print and complete the Shelterbelt Application Form. Completed forms can be Emailed or delivered in person to the Administration office at 4900B - 50 Street in Taber or the Main Operations & Maintenance Facility located on Highway 3 171027 AB-3, Barnwell.

For information on applying, suitable species, shelterbelt design, and more call 403-223-8735.

Planning your shelterbelt

Establishing a shelterbelt can be a big investment in time and money. Success depends on close attention to design, plant selection, site preparation, proper planting, early establishment maintenance, and long-term care. Careful planning improves the benefits and helps avoid problems.

Placement of trees and municipal bylaws

When planting near a property line, trees should be set back at least 150 feet (46m) from the centre line of a rural road except by Development Authority approval. Per MD of Taber Land Use Bylaw No 1722 (pg 61), when planting on a corner site (e.g. where a range road and township road meet) shelterbelts are not allowed to grow within 350 feet (107m) to preserve a sight triangle at the intersection.