The Optimal Shelterbelt (OSB) Project is a multi-partner project between FWAG SW, the Organic Research Centre, forestry consultant David Lewis, and currently, 11 landowners, spear-headed by forester and Tree Shop owner John Davis. Through blended finance provided by the Cotswold National Landscape, the Great Western Community Forest, Protect Earth, the Woodland and Dulverton Trusts and the Environment Agency, the project aims to demonstrate to policymakers the multiple benefits of OSBs by encouraging planting across a group of Cotswold landowners. At present 21 successful shelterbelts have been planted, with a further three planned for this winter’s planting season.
Ultimately the OSB project hopes to provide the funding and knowledge for creating numerous case studies, which will influence the creation of long-term funding streams for wide-spread adoption of the shelterbelt design. FWAG SW’s network of contacts has already aided in partnering interested landowners with appropriate funding, allowing for the project to maintain momentum and get trees in the ground. The current regulatory position provides funding through Countryside Stewardship for hedgerows up to 1.5m wide, or the English Woodland Creation Scheme for shelterwoods of a width greater than 10m. By providing real-world examples of successful shelterbelts, the OSB project can push the dial on the creation of new grant funding options.
The OSB project was conceived by John Davis off the back of Oxford University research that established the optimal width, species composition and tree distribution of shelterbelts for maximising the benefits whilst minimising the amount of agricultural land taken up. OSBs offer multiple benefits for arable and grassland by creating a micro-climate that not only protects crops from wind damage and improving yield but also reduces livestock mortality by stabilising ambient temperatures. Additionally, the native species composition of OSBs provide numerous biodiversity benefits, acting as broad habitat corridors and linking nature across our farming landscapes.
Project lead/contact is Maisie Jepson, Senior Farm Environment Adviser
Partners: Organic Research Centre, forestry consultant David Lewis, Tree Shop, Cotswold National Landscape, Great Western Community Forest, Protect Earth, The Woodland Trust, The Dulverton Trust, the Local Authority Tree Fund and The Tree Council.
