Lila Springs Native Forest Protection Project

Lila Springs Native Forest Protection Project is an Avoided Deforestation project located approximately 67km north of Bourke in north-western New South Wales. It was registered in December 2014 and covers 40,275.99ha.

Avoided Deforestation projects involve protecting native forests from being cleared and permanently converted into agricultural systems, such as cropland or grassland. A standard requirement for this methodology is that the land must have been issued a government clearing consent or permit prior to 1 July 2010.

The Bourke area is well known for its extensive pastoral operations, primarily sheep and beef cattle grazing. The region is considered semi-arid with low rainfall, typically averaging around 300mm annually. Soils in this area are generally red earths (Kandosols), sandy loams, and naturally hardsetting hardpan soils.

The project is managed by proponent Hamilton Developments (VIC) Pty Ltd alongside Terra Carbon Pty Limited. To accurately calculate the carbon stock protected, the project applies allometric equations to tree measurements collected through onsite biomass surveys. Additionally, the project transitioned from the original 2013 methodology determination to the updated Avoided Deforestation 1.1 version in May 2015.