Growing knowledge: Student learns how trees transform agricultural landscapes

Posted 24 March 2025

On-farm benefits Economic benefits and markets Carbon benefits Tree Alliance

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For aspiring farmer Kyler Evans, the more he studies agriculture, the more he understands the value that trees can have.

The Year 12 Exeter High School student admitted he had little idea of the significant impacts trees can make on the health and productivity of agricultural landscapes until participating in several Forest Education Foundation initiatives over the past couple of years.

“Originally, I thought forestry was just putting a tree in the ground, growing it, cutting it down, then you've got a book,” Kyler, 17, of Launceston, said.

“Trees are very helpful when it comes to land management and the land itself.

“They provide windbreaks for livestock and cropping, which help with survivability and productivity, and they are great for biodiversity and soil health.

“The right tree in the right place can make a huge difference to the landscape.”

The FEF, a Private Forests Tasmania Tree Alliance member, provides students throughout Tasmania with quality, hands-on educational experiences and facilitates forestry and agricultural industry engagement with education communities.

Kyler and his fellow students have taken part in several experiences over the past two years, including planting a 111-hectare mixed-species shelterbelt at Exeter Farm School in 2024, attending a camp at Forico, and visiting Hagley School Farm for an introduction to plantation management and tree pruning, hosted by PFT.

Students have gained knowledge and experience in the role of tree farms in the landscape, from seed propagation and plantation establishment to ongoing management, biodiversity conservation, social and cultural values, and fibre product processing.

Kyler said he was introduced to farming by family members who work in agriculture, and he sees himself joining them once he has finished studying.

“A career in some sort of agriculture is probably where I will end up, and a forestry job is not out of the question either, having had a taste of it,” he said.

FEF manager Darcy Vickers said having worked with a group of students over an extended period, it was great to see and be part of their growth as they explore new ideas and develop their understanding.

“Meeting students like Kyler and being part of their learning journey really is a highlight of being an educator,” he said.

“I’m confident Kyler will enjoy his career pathway and I’m sure he will stay connected to and appreciate the value of trees in the landscape.”