Turpentine Carbon Project

Turpentine Carbon Project is a soil carbon sequestration initiative located approximately 35km northeast of Goondiwindi in the Southern Downs region of Queensland. Registered in October 2015, the project covers a 3,844-hectare area within the Goondiwindi Local Government Area. The project is operated by Archer Pastoral Pty Ltd, a grazing enterprise known for implementing regenerative agricultural practices on their properties, which include "Rexton" and "Rainmore."

The project operates under the Estimation of Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration using Measurement and Models (2021) methodology. This "hybrid" method allows proponents to calculate carbon credits using a combination of physical soil core sampling and validated computer models, offering a cost-effective alternative to measurement-only approaches. The primary activities on the site involve altering grazing intensity, specifically through time-controlled grazing strategies, and rejuvenating pastures to increase ground cover and soil health. By improving the density and depth of pasture roots, the project aims to draw more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it as organic carbon in the soil.

The Goondiwindi region is a major agricultural hub characterized by a semi-arid to subtropical climate with an average annual rainfall of approximately 500mm to 600mm. The landscape supports a mix of cropping and grazing, with soils varying from fertile, cracking clays (Vertosols), often associated with the Brigalow Belt, to lighter texture-contrast soils (Chromosols) and red earths. The project has successfully demonstrated carbon abatement, with over 66,000 Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) issued to date. It is also linked to a significant fixed delivery contract with the Commonwealth, indicating a long-term commitment to maintaining the stored carbon for a 25-year permanence period.