Question

Explain the following term.

Shelter belts

Answer 1

1. Shelter belts are deliberately planted rows of trees and shrubs positioned perpendicular to prevailing winds to reduce wind speed across fields. They function as windbreaks that prevent wind erosion, protect crops and soil moisture, and reduce evapotranspiration; they also provide habitat, shade, and sometimes timber or fodder.
2. Typically planted in several staggered rows, shelter belts slow airflow, trap sediment, and encourage snow deposition in cold regions, improving water retention. Common in arid and semi‑arid farming systems, they are a low‑cost agroforestry measure that increases crop yields, conserves soil, and supports biodiversity when well designed and maintained. and reduces dust storms.