Temporal, environmental and spatial changes in the effect of windbreaks on pasture microclimate

• Effect of windbreaks on paddock microclimate highly dependent time year/day Effects are most pronounced during extreme environmental conditions Windbreak effects temperature/humidity summer Windbreaks reduced wind by up to 70%, but varied with speed and direction Understanding windbreak variability is important for predicting agricultural benefits modify microclimatic within systems, however these affects altered temporal, spatial factors often resulting in variation the reported benefits. climatic times when effective will increase our ability predict impacts yields returns. We examined (windspeed, temperature, relative humidity vapor pressure deficit (VPD)) at fine temporal scales described patterns effectiveness moderating microclimate. also assessed climate under which have biggest impact microclimates determine where effective. Microclimate variables were monitored six distances away from established across four pasture/grazing paddocks Tasmanian midlands, Australia. Results showed that effect varied; spatially, temporally conditions. Temperature, VPD exhibited diurnal seasonal trends their response windbreaks, largest observed afternoon. Environmental impacted magnitude observed. reducing speeds high, although temperature was reduced. Wind a key factor, changes originated directly behind windbreak, plots closely adjacent had came all directions. This study highlights it consider dynamics as well site.