Bloodwood Native Forest Protection Project

Bloodwood Native Forest Protection Project is an Avoided Deforestation project located approximately 130km northwest of Bourke in the remote rangelands of New South Wales. Registered in July 2015, the project covers a substantial area of 24,725 hectares on "Bloodwood Station," a pastoral property in the Mulga Lands bioregion. The surrounding region is traditionally utilized for grazing sheep, cattle, and goats, characterized by its vast, semi-arid landscape.

Avoided Deforestation projects prevent the clearing of native forest for agricultural purposes, such as cropping or grazing. To qualify, the landholder must hold a clearing permit that was issued prior to 1 July 2010, demonstrating a clear legal right and intent to clear the land. By surrendering this right and maintaining the forest instead, the project generates carbon credits. The Bloodwood project operates under the 2015 variation of the methodology, transitioning from the original 2013 determination to ensure compliance with updated standards.

The environmental conditions at the site are typical of the Far West NSW region, featuring low, irregular rainfall and red sandy loam or "red earth" soils (Kandosols/Chromosols). The vegetation is dominated by Mulga (Acacia aneura) and bimble box woodlands, which provide critical habitat in the fragile ecosystem. A notable feature of the property is a significant lake system that, when filled, supports a high diversity of aquatic life, including fairy shrimps and shield shrimps. The carbon revenue has reportedly allowed the proponents to invest in feral animal control and adopt a "resting" strategy for the land, reducing grazing pressure to encourage regeneration.