Morton Plains Human-Induced Regeneration Project

The Morton Plains Human-Induced Regeneration Project is a carbon farming initiative located on the "Morton Plains" pastoral station, approximately 100km north of Bourke in New South Wales. Situated near the small town of Enngonia close to the Queensland border, the project was registered in July 2015 and covers a substantial area of 22,618 hectares.

The project operates under the Human-Induced Regeneration (HIR) methodology. This type of project involves regenerating native forest on land that has been historically cleared or suppressed. To achieve this, the proponent (Terra Carbon Pty Limited) implements specific management changes, such as controlling feral animals (like goats) and managing the timing and extent of livestock grazing. These activities reduce the pressure on young vegetation, allowing native species, typically Mulga (Acacia aneura) in this region, to regenerate and reach forest cover status.

The Enngonia region is part of the Mulga Lands bioregion, characterized by a semi-arid climate with hot summers and variable rainfall. The landscape is dominated by flat to undulating plains featuring red earth soils, often classified as Red Chromosols or sandy loams. The primary land use in the area is extensive grazing for sheep and cattle, which historically suppressed vegetation growth before carbon projects became a viable alternative revenue stream.

An interesting historical note regarding the property is its connection to Australian folklore. "Morton Plains" is cited as one of the stations where the famous bush poet and soldier Harry "Breaker" Morant worked as a horse breaker and drover in late 1895, prior to his service in the Boer War.