The Trees on Farms program was made possible through an FEF sponsorship grant provided between July and November 2024, designed to support the Years 7–10 Food and Fibre Production curriculum.

The project’s core focus is integrating real-world agricultural and environmental learning opportunities for students through the practical design, planting, and care of on-farm tree systems.

These shelterbelts were thoughtfully designed to address the site’s unique conditions, with layout and species selection tailored to moderate the strong northwestern winds that sweep across the flat Bothwell plain.

"Once established, the trees will enhance growing conditions for the school’s hazelnut orchard and livestock paddocks, improving productivity while also providing environmental protection,” PFT Forestry Specialist Dion McKenzie said.

The planting included:

• Mixed-species shelterbelts (trees and shrubs) along the paddock boundaries to boost biodiversity and provide livestock shelter;
• Shrub-only shelterbelts around the hazelnut crop to reduce wind impact and improve yields; and
• A radiata pine demonstration woodlot for future timber and fibre production education.

Beyond the paddock, the project is also about education and connection — giving students real-world insight into the role of trees in sustainable farming systems, and the broader social, economic, and environmental benefits of integrating forestry into agriculture.

“It’s been 12 to 18 months in the planning and development of this Trees on Farms program to support another Tasmanian regional school,” FEF Manager Darcy Vickers said.

“A planting project supported by a teaching program for students from primary to secondary – all about trees and the benefits they bring to agricultural landscapes. What a great experience to share with students on their learning journeys.”

On July 25, students, teachers, and representatives from FEF, PFT, and Sustainable Timber Tasmania (STT) gathered at the school to plant 560 trees and shrubs.

STT supplied the seedlings, while PFT provided critical guidance throughout the process — from site visits and shelterbelt design to species selection, preparation techniques (mound ploughing, fencing, tree guards), and ongoing management.

PFT also contributed resources to support the development of teaching and learning materials that will embed the Trees on Farms experience into the school’s curriculum.

Students also gained exposure to:

• Site planning and shelterbelt layout

• Understanding land preparation and planting methods

• Developing knowledge of tree maintenance, weed control, and long-term care

• Field trips to demonstration farms and industry sites

• Career education opportunities in forestry and agriculture