ESTABLISHMENT OF HYBRID WILLOWS FOR USE AS A WINDBREAK,
VISUAL BARRIER AND SPRAY DRIFT RETARDANT
The increasing interface in Northern New Jersey between rural farm operations and residential
properties is a challenge many growers face. One way to "soften" the interface is through the use of a
visual barrier or windbreak. Windbreaks can prove to be an effective tool in: 1) providing a visual
screen, and 2) reducing wind in specific areas, thus reducing the potential for spray drift and reducing

wind related damage. The Austree^®is an all male hybrid willow that originated in New Zealand. It is
known for it's rapid and dense growth habit. It can reach heights of 70 feet and has a life expectancy
of 50 to 75 years. Over 1000 of these clean growing trees have been established in multiple plantings
at the Snyder Farm.
J. GRANDE, E. DAGER, J. COMPTON, W. COWGILL

SNYDER RESEARCH FARM ANIMAL DAMAGE CONTROL RESEARCH AND
DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
The Snyder Research and Extension Farm has been designated by the New Jersey Agricultural
Extension Service as the Extension Outreach component for the newly created center for Wildlife
Damage Control. Whitetail deer and other wildlife damage to agricultural crops are considered the
single largest economic loss New Jersey farmers incur. Damage estimates are calculated in the millions
of dollars annually. The Snyder Research Farm has initiated several projects to address animal damage
control for both the commercial farming operations and home sites.

EVALUATION OF SIX FOOT, 10 WIRE HIGH TENSILE ELECTRIC FENCE
A twenty-two acre field was fenced with the above noted design. This fence was designed from other
successful fencing programs. A solar powered charger, cattle grates, 10 wires (to exclude rodents and
deer) are being evaluated for efficacy, cost effectiveness and practicality.
W. COWGILL, G. SLIFER

1999 North Jersey Tree Fruit Annual Report

12