Pinette Robinson of Fairfolk Farm, a past participant in the Business Bootcamp for New Farmers program, shared insights with Young Agrarians about the farm’s tree-planting project. The initiative aims to establish windrows and shelterbelts around their fields, pasture and gardens to protect soil and crops, and create habitats for wildlife. Launched in Spring 2024, this five-year project showcases Fairfolk Farm’s dedication to fostering a sustainable future through farming.
The following text and photos are created by Pinette and shared with her permission.
This spring [2024], we embarked on an exciting journey at Fairfolk Farm—a 5-year tree-planting project that’s already transforming our land and operations. In partnership with the Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension Society (AWES), we planted the first of what will eventually be more than 2,000 trees and bushes to create windrows and shelterbelts.
This past spring [2024] alone, we planted over 400 trees, and we’ll repeat this process each year for the next four years. These trees aren’t just about adding greenery to the farm—they’re about sustainability, protection, and fostering biodiversity.
“This project is about more than farming.”
Why Shelterbelts?
As a horticultural farm, we’re constantly contending with the challenges of wind and weather. That’s where shelterbelts come in. These lines of trees act as natural barriers, and their benefits are immense:
Protecting our soil: Strong winds can strip away precious topsoil, so these trees will help us keep our soil where it belongs—healthy and full of life.
Protecting our soil: Strong winds can strip away precious topsoil, so these trees will help us keep our soil where it belongs—healthy and full of life.- Conserving water: By reducing evaporation caused by wind, the trees help us retain soil moisture, which means less irrigation is needed.
- Creating microclimates: These tree lines will reduce temperature fluctuations, giving our crops a more stable environment to thrive.
- Regulating soil moisture: The shelterbelts will aid in capturing snow and maintaining landscape hydration, helping to mitigate the impacts of both drought and flooding.
A Diverse Tree Mix
In the first year, with AWES’s expert guidance, we planted a carefully selected mix of trees and shrubs, including:
– Buffalo Berry
– Golden Willow
– Tamarack
– White Spruce
– Laurel Leaf Willow
– Saskatoon Berry
– Acute Willow
– Dogwood
These species aren’t just functional; they’re also beautiful, adding color and life to the farm while creating a home for pollinators, birds, and small mammals.
“Each plant is a little climate champion, absorbing carbon dioxide and helping mitigate climate change.”
More Than Just Trees
While these windrows and shelterbelts are critical for protecting our crops, they’re bringing so much more to Fairfolk Farm:
1. A Boost for Biodiversity
The shelterbelts are already buzzing with new life. They’ll provide year-round habitat for wildlife, which is essential for creating a thriving ecosystem.
2. Carbon Sequestration
Each plant is a little climate champion, absorbing carbon dioxide and helping mitigate climate change.
3. Enhanced Agritourism
As an agritourism destination, we’re always looking for ways to make Fairfolk Farm more inviting. We hope these trees will not only beautify the landscape but also attract wildlife that will delight our visitors. Imagine walking among the trees and spotting birds, pollinators, and other creatures—they’re as much a part of the farm as our crops.
Looking Ahead
This project is about more than farming—it’s about building a legacy. By the time we plant the last tree in 2028, Fairfolk Farm will have a network of shelterbelts that will benefit not just our crops, but also our community and the environment.
We’re incredibly grateful to the Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension Society for their support and expertise. Their guidance has been invaluable in choosing the right trees and ensuring their successful establishment.
A Farm Rooted in Sustainability
At Fairfolk Farm, we believe that farming isn’t just about what we take from the land—it’s about what we give back. This tree-planting project is our way of giving back to the land, creating a healthier, more sustainable farm for generations to come.
If you’re planning a visit to Fairfolk Farm, we invite you to keep an eye on our trees. Watch them grow, take in the wildlife they attract, and share in our excitement as this project blossoms into something truly special.
Here’s to planting for the future—one tree at a time.
– The Fairfolk Farm Team
Get in touch with Fairfolk Farm through their Instagram: @fairfolkfarm
Learn more about the farm and their experience with the Business Bootcamp for New Farmers at Meet Pinette of Fairfolk Farm.