Peel's
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F.A.Q.: Natural Snow Fences
- Why should I participate?
- How will I be compensated?
- How do I qualify?
- Why do we need snow fences?
- How does a snow fence work?
- Benefits to landowners and the community
- How do I get involved?
Driving during the winter months can often be dangerous when faced with inclement weather such as blowing and drifting snow. Blowing snow can lead to whiteout conditions that reduce driver visibility, leave drivers stranded and cause accidents.
The Region of Peel works hard to ensure that its network of roads is kept clear of snow and ice during winter months. This effort often involves the installation of manufactured snow fences on residential properties in Peel near roadways that are subjected to blowing snow.
The Region of Peel is implementing a new environmental program and is asking farmers in Peel with properties next to Regional roads to allow the Region to utilize a small portion of their corn crop (approximately 12 to 15 rows of corn) as natural snow fences during the winter months in an effort to increase winter road safety.
Why should I participate in the program?
Farmers that participate in the program will be providing a public service that may improve driver visibility during "white out" conditions and improve road surface conditions by minimizing snow drifts and ice. This assists Public Works staff in keeping the roads safer for the traveling public and saves money, especially given higher fuel costs associated with operating snow plows.
How will I be compensated for leaving my crop up throughout the year?
Farmers that qualify for eligibility will receive remuneration from the Region. For a quote on your property and harvest, please contact the Region.
How do I know if I qualify?
To qualify for the program, you must be able to leave up a portion of your corn crop (approximately 12 to 15 rows of corn) as a barrier to snow and your property must be located next to a Regional road.
Why do we need snow fences?
Natural snow fences can be a low-cost and environmentally friendly solution to prevent drifting snow problems. These barriers are strategically placed and designed to trap snow as it blows across fields, piling it up before it can reach roads, waterways, farmsteads or communities.
How does a snow fence work?
Snow fences force wind to go around and through the fence, causing the wind to lose energy and speed. The snow particles suspended in the fast-moving air come to rest as the speed slows. This forms a drift behind or in front of the snow fence. The height of the fence and amount of snowfall common to the area, determines how much snow a fence can trap.
Benefits to landowners:
- Improves access to farmsteads and rural areas
- Provides a service to your community
- Promotes environmental stewardship
- Helps reduce soil erosion
Benefits to the community:
- Prevents big drifts that lead to stranded motorists
- Improves driver visibility to reduce vehicle accidents
- Reduces use of the public's money by reducing plowing
- Lessens impacts on our environment with less salt use, fewer truck trips and less fuel consumption
- Reduces shipping delays for goods and services
How do I get involved?
If you are interested in the program, please contact Len Gardiner at 905-791-7800, ext. 3407. Those living in long-distance areas of Caledon can call toll free at 1-888-919-7800, ext. 3294.