Our experienced ecologists can design a complete solution for revegetation projects including:
- Design of farm tree plantings
- Riparian plantings
- Species selection
- Farm forestry and plantations
Speak with us about the specific requirements for your site.
Design of farm tree plantings
People plant trees on farms for a range of reasons: shelter, shade, water quality improvement, erosion control, wildlife, aesthetics, honey or timber. Different uses require different designs and we are experts in designing farm plantings to give the maximum benefits. We can design farm tree plantings that will optimise multiple benefits (e.g. shelter and timber production). Farm tree design includes species selection, establishment methods, row and tree spacing, maintenance methods and location. Good farm tree design also considers ways to minimise the competition between trees and adjacent crops and pastures. We have particular skills in designing plantings for cropping systems which maximise the number, diversity and availability of predators and parasites of crop pests.
Riparian plantings
The riparian zone (the area adjacent to creeks, rivers and streams) provides ideal conditions for the growth of many plants because of deep soils and high availability of nutrients and water. Unfortunately, this includes weeds, so riparian plantings can be the most difficult to establish successfully. Many farms and local governments want to revegetate riparian zones to improve water quality, wildlife connectivity and aesthetic values. Stringybark Ecological can design and implement successful riparian plantings to meet your needs and budget. With our partners, we can also arrange in-stream engineering and rock works to reduce erosion, trap sediment and improve riparian habitat. We can select species, recommend weed control strategies, supply and plant seedlings and recommend appropriate mulches or ground covers. We can also recommend and implement follow-up weed control and other maintenance.
Species selection
Selecting the right species for the job is essential to getting the full value from your revegetation project. The plants you choose must perform the functions you want and survive the climate and environmental factors of your site. We are experts in selecting species for all sorts of projects, from ecological restoration to farm plantings to gardens. We can also help you source seed or seedlings from reputable nurseries and suppliers. Species selection is particularly important for commercial and farm forestry – species must not only survive and grow fast, they must also meet the specifications of the target product.
Farm forestry and plantations
Farm plantations need to be well designed if they are to survive, grow and produce a profitable crop at the end. The right species must be chosen to grow on the site and to provide a product within the specifications of your target market. The trees need to be established properly into well-prepared ground at the right planting density. As the trees grow, they must have the right silviculture to ensure they grow to specifications. Specialised silviculture is required to produce high-value timber in low volumes.
Stringybark Ecological can assist you with all of these aspects of farm forestry and plantations. We can also integrate forestry into your existing agricultural enterprises to gain other benefits such as shelter and improved water quality. We have experience developing and monitoring farm forestry projects in every State and Territory in Australia.
