Hedgerow and buffer zone establishment/restoration

This is less of a discussion and more of an invitation....

Here at Koliswa farm, in addition to planting trees generally, we have begun working to establish or restore hedgerows along fence lines and lane
ways and buffer zones along stretches of the South Saugeen River that
forms the western boundary of the farm. Robust hedgerows and buffer
zones consisting of a diversity of native tree and shrub species can
enhance agricultural activity and also provide habitat for birds,
animals and insects that are also beneficial to agro-ecological
activity. For the hedgerows and buffer zones, we've been planting a
variety of berry-bearing and other shrubs and a few species of trees,
some of which we transplant from other sites on the farm, and some of
which we purchase in bare root form from a local supplier. In addition
to the practical function of hedgerows and buffer zone we also take
aesthetics into account.

For planting this spring, we hope to be working with a few local high
school youth who, in return for their labour for a Saturday here at our
farm, will earn community service credits and learn something about the
synergies between farming and natural ecosystems. Included in the day
will be a short workshop on this topic to be followed by several hours
of hard (but hopefully fun and invigorating) work. Next year we hope to
secure a grant from the Ministry of Natural Resources for a much larger
project.

All Transition Neustadt friends are welcome to attend and help (There
will be lots of food and drink as well.). In fact, if any of you are
interested in participating, I will return the favour and help you one
day with any of your own similar restoration planting. We don't have a
precise date yet but are thinking of a Saturday in mid April through
Mid May. Let me know if you're interested. If any of you are I will
order more bare root stock!

Gary Kenny