I have seen some very dusty trees. What about Leylandii trees and then spray them to clean the dust off every so often, unless it rains a lot, (but then you would not have a dust problem?)
Sorry, I wasn't clear, we intend to put up some sort of mesh (was thinking a fine mesh, holes about 1mmsq, but also read about ParaWeb who suggest a double wall construction for use downwind of the source) . We have planted trees (not sure what species) but these will take at least 10 years to reach the height and width required to reduce the dust significantly.
What is the desired purpose, area, and location of this proposed dust settlement fence? Have used trees as a wind breaks and snow drift fence, but have no idea about the dust. The trees should inhibit the velocity in the immediate area of the trees and drop some of the dust.
Keep us advised concerning this. I'm curious about the project.
Fences up wind of the site reduce the wind speed which reduces the entrainment of dust. It was usually about 50% density. The amount of area downwind of the fence is proportional to height, but I forget how much. Maybe 10 times the height? You can also water or mulch or use commercial sprays which usually contain a hydrophylic agent. EPA has some information on dust control. Try their websites.
