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A message for rural landowners in the Credit River Watershed.
Credit Valley Conservation Blog

To Bend Without Breaking

Many old sayings are rooted in observations of the natural world. To Be Bent Not Broken recalls an image of a majestic tree blowing in the wind. It bends but does not break despite the pressures bearing upon it.

Trees dance naturally with the wind. From root to leaf, they are designed to withstand blustery weather. Leaves curl inwards. Their stem grooves allow them to twist with the wind. Trunks sway, dispersing energy. In open environments, like forest edges, trees develop stronger roots and more wind-resistant forms. In a dense forest, trees sway together reducing wind speed. With their interlocking roots, they create a formidable defense against windstorms.  

Wind disturbance is a natural landscape process and some trees will fall. The small gaps created by windblown trees allow younger shade-tolerant species to replace the earlier pioneers. Larger gaps create conditions for sun-loving trees like oak and hickory. Age and species diversity increases and improves forest resilience.

But climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of wind events with negative effect. It’s also helping spread disease and invasive species which hinder forest resilience. For example, aggressive vines like Kudzu can smother trees. They add weight to the tree canopy that the roots must then support in a windstorm. While not yet in our watershed, invasive Kudzu is advancing northwards aided by climate warming.

We need healthy trees and forests to help us fight climate change. A healthy tree has a better chance of bending without breaking. Practice good forest management to ensure your forest is healthy and resilient. To learn more about how to manage your forests, contact us at stewardship@cvc.ca.

Upcoming Events

Deep in the Reeds:
How to stop the spread of invasive Phragmites

Free Webinar
Tuesday, August 18, 6:30-7:30 p.m.


Join us for an engaging discussion with local experts and citizen groups on how to identify, manage and remove Phragmites, one of Ontario’s most troublesome invasive plants. Hear success stories and learn about resources available to help you stop the spread on your property and in your community. Register here.

 

Watch Past Webinars

Climate Change and Your Health


Watch our three-part webinar series on the effects of climate change on human and environmental health. Learn how to protect yourself and your property from extreme heat, disease and severe weather.
Sincerely,
Your Countryside Stewardship Team
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