In the semi-arid regions of Eastern Austria, windbreaks are essential for reducing wind velocity (WV) and grass reference and actual evapotranspiration (Et₀, Etₐ), thereby influencing yields. This case study examines the effects of two windbreak systems: 1) a hedgerow-based wind protection system (WPS) and 2) a strip intercropping experiment (SICE) with variable row widths in a maize-soybean intercropping setup. Micrometeorological data were collected at both sites, including wind velocity, wind direction, air temperature, global radiation, and relative humidity at multiple heights. The WPS reduced wind velocity by 0.8-1.1 m s^-1 (2 m height) and 0.6-0.8 m s^-1 (1 m height) leeward of the hedge compared to a 10 m reference height. At the SICE, reductions ranged from 0.1-1.2 m s^-1 (2 m) and 0.2-0.5 m s^-1 (1 m). Relative wind reduction effects (WRE) reached 34-41% (WPS) and 31-56% (SICE). A hedgerow coefficient (∆f ) was used to standardize the WRE by hedgerow height and distance in different systems. Et₀ decreased by 0.6-0.7 mm d^-1 near the WPS, while Et_a rose by 0.2-0.5 mm d^-1 due to improved water availability. At the SICE, Et₀ increased by 0.9-1.7 mm d^-1, and Et_a showed varied responses. Overall, windbreaks can enhance water use efficiency and support sustainable landscape design in semi-arid agriculture.