Snow Drift Control
Snow Fences
by: Chris Robert, UNH T2 Center Project Assistant
Snow fences
reduce snow drifts by slowing the wind speed as it passes through the fence. A
reduction in wind speed causes snow particles carried by the wind to settle out
into a drift creating snow accumulation on the downwind side of the fence.
The desired effectiveness of a fence dictates how tall it will be. The storage capacity of the fence is controlled by its height. Leave a gap between the ground and the bottom of the fence. The gap forces wind under the fence and keeps the fence from being buried.
Proper installation ensures snow fence effectiveness. The following points are critical:
Locate the fence 35 times its height from the edge of the road.
Snow fence material should be 50% porous.
Leave a gap of 6 - 12 inches under the fence.
Avoid large openings in a fence.
Overlap to prevent loss of effectiveness.
Extend fence at least 50 feet beyond the protected area to account for the loss of effectiveness at the ends of the fence.
Choose appropriate snow fence material for application based upon local conditions.
Install fence posts before the ground freezes. Fencing may be installed at a later date.
Use personal experience to determine appropriate drift protection areas.
Dense vegetation can act as a living snow fence along roadways. Locate living snow fences 150 - 300 feet upwind of the roadway to prevent drifting. Although primarily located on privately owned land, living snow fences are a public benefit. Living snow fences require voluntary cooperation and participation from the landowner.
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