Horse Ridges Native Forest Protection Project

Horse Ridges Native Forest Protection Project is an avoided deforestation project located in the Bogan Shire near Nyngan in Western NSW, approximately 50km to the southwest. It was registered on September 18, 2013, and covers an area of 3,444.90 ha.

Avoided deforestation projects prevent the release of greenhouse gas emissions by protecting native forests from being permanently cleared and converted into agricultural systems. The standard requirement for this methodology is that the land must have been issued a valid clearing consent or permit prior to 1 July 2010. In May 2015, the project was varied to fall under the updated Avoided Deforestation 1.1 Methodology Determination 2015.

The Nyngan region is characteristically semi-arid with lower rainfall, and the surrounding area is primarily known for grazing, dryland farming (such as wheat and canola), and sustainable forestry. The soils in this region are largely composed of red earths, red-brown earths, and clay plains that can be prone to hardsetting.

This project was established to protect local native eucalypt and cypress forests. Interestingly, the project allows participating farmers to continue sustainable grazing practices on the land, demonstrating how landholders can create a dual-income stream by integrating traditional agriculture with carbon sequestration.