Cougar Regeneration Project

Cougar Regeneration Project is a human-induced regeneration project located approximately 35km north of Cobar in Outback NSW. It was registered in October 2015 and covers 6,553.10ha.

Human-induced regeneration projects involve establishing permanent, even-aged native forests through assisted regeneration. This method relies on native vegetation recovering from in-situ seed sources, including rootstock and lignotubers, on land that was previously cleared and where regrowth was suppressed for at least 10 years prior. Standard methodology requirements dictate that the activities previously suppressing the native forest must be altered or stopped. For this specific project, the activities undertaken to facilitate forest recovery include managing the timing and extent of livestock grazing, as well as the humane management of feral animals.

The Cobar region is historically known for its base metal and gold mining operations, but the broader surrounding landscape is heavily utilised for primary production, specifically pastoral grazing. The environment features a semi-arid climate, experiencing a low average annual rainfall of around 350mm, and the local terrain is typically characterised by red earth soils and sandy loams.

Originally managed by proponents Kerri Rees and Peter Jelley, the project underwent a proponent variation in January 2023, transferring to Megan Barker and Mathew Farrell. The project is supported by the agent and carbon service provider Select Carbon Pty Ltd, and it utilises the FullCAM modelling approach to estimate its carbon abatement.