Windbreak and Snow Fence

After observing the local weather in this spot for years, I've noticed that this spot gets a lot of snow and wind, and that the trees are being used as a windbreak and snow fence. People made the choice to live more comfortably by impacting and changing the land a bit. As a result, the snow stops and drops in the ditch once it hits the trees instead of piling up on the field. The trees also help as a windbreak, so the crops don't get damaged from too much wind and debris going across them.

Storm Lake

Iowa Core Standard

K-PS3-2

Use tools and materials to design and build a structure that will reduce the warming effect of sunlight on an area

Driving Question

Why is there a wind break/snow fence in this spot?

Probing Questions

Is this a natural windbreak or was it made by humans?
Why are there trees instead of a real fence?
How long does it take for the trees to grow for it to be effective?

Classroom Suggestions

Students could:

Make their own windbreak and test.
Observe a windbreak near them. Analyze what happens to that land with a windbreak.
Observe land that could use a windbreak, but doesn't have one. Analyze what happens to that land without a windbreak.

Resources

Iowa Arboretum and Gardens | Windbreaks: Different tree types used as windbreaks in Iowa
Iowa DNR | Rethinking Acreage and Rural Tree Planting: Rethink rural tree windbreaks in Iowa
Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts | Things to Consider When Designing a Windbreak: Things to consider when planting a windbreak or snow fence

Contributors

Phenomena submitted by Arielle Sexton.