Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Slopes:
Approximately 2 acres next to the highway are mostly level, with a
few low-lying areas. The remaining 3 acres slope upward and away from the
highway. Slopes average 6 to 10 degrees, and the surface is generally flat.
Surface water drainage:
The slopes are grass-covered pasture and show no
signs of erosion. Drainage appears good; there is no standing water on the
slopes, but several areas near the highway retain standing water for 1 to 2
days after a rain.
Soil type and drainage:
The site is covered with 24 to 30 inches of loam
overlying 48 inches of sandy clay loam lying over gravel. Percolation tests
show adequate drainage on the 4 acres away from the road. Several clay
lenses near the highway are causing poor drainage and some standing water.
Coldairdrainage:
Cold air drainage (the ability of cold, heavy air to flow out
of your orchard) on the 3 acres away from the highway is good. Next to the
highway, the land is more or less level for several miles around. Late spring
frosts are common on the lower 2 acres.
Wind protection needed:
The area experiences occasional summer and
winter winds with steady speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour and gusts of 50
to 60 mph. The winds are usually from the north and east. Windbreaks will
be used on the north, east, and west sides, leaving the highway side of the
orchard open. The windbreak will consist of the Penn State University clone
of hybrid poplar with trees spaced 10 feet apart.
Low spots or other problem areas:
There are several low spots with occa-
sional standing water next to the highway. A few areas between the base of
the slope and the highway need leveling before fruit crops are planted.
Fencing required:
Whitetail deer are abundant in the area. To exclude deer
and reduce vandalism to farm equipment, an 8-foot-tall fence will be con-
structed around the entire property, with the exception of the roadside stand
area. The fence will be 4-inch-square wire orchard mesh to a height of 60
