Yarrawonga Cobar Regeneration Project

Yarrawonga Cobar Regeneration Project is a Human-Induced Regeneration project located approximately 18km southwest of Cobar in New South Wales. It was registered in September 2015 and covers an area of 9,978.19 hectares.

Human-Induced Regeneration (HIR) projects involve establishing permanent native forests by encouraging the natural regrowth of native vegetation from in-situ seed sources, such as rootstock and lignotubers. To meet standard methodology requirements, projects must implement new land management practices to allow the forest to regenerate to at least 20% canopy cover and achieve a minimum height of 2 metres.

The Cobar region is characterised by a semi-arid climate with low, variable rainfall and high evaporation. The local environment predominantly features red silty loams, red Chromosols, and hard red earth soil types. Land use in this area is largely driven by pastoral agriculture, particularly extensive sheep grazing, alongside historically significant and active mining operations.

This project was established on land previously cleared of vegetation where regrowth had been deliberately suppressed for at least 10 years prior to commencement. It is operated by David Snelson, a seventh-generation sheep grazier, who initiated the carbon project to offset revenue lost during a severe and prolonged drought. To facilitate regeneration, he reduced the property's sheep flock from 4,000 to 3,000, dedicating half the farm to the restoration of native trees. Current project activities include the cessation of mechanical and chemical suppression of regrowth, and the humane management of feral animals. The project holds an active Carbon Abatement Contract (CAC102278) with the Australian Government for fixed delivery.