Lower Lila Native Forest Protection Project

The Lower Lila Native Forest Protection Project is an Avoided Deforestation project located approximately 55km northwest (85km by road) of Bourke in the Orana region of New South Wales. Registered on December 19, 2019, the project encompasses a significant area of 22,112 hectares on the "Lower Lila" pastoral station. This property sits near the edge of the Warrego River within the Mulga Lands bioregion, an area traditionally utilized for grazing livestock, particularly Merino sheep, cattle, and goats.

The region is characterized by a semi-arid climate with low, variable rainfall averaging around 370mm annually. The landscape features iconic red earth and sandy loam soils, supporting native vegetation communities dominated by Mulga (Acacia aneura), Coolibah, Bimble Box, and Turpentine. Under the "Avoided Deforestation 1.1" methodology, the project protects native forest for which a land-clearing permit was issued prior to July 1, 2010. By choosing not to exercise this permit to convert the land for agriculture, the project prevents the release of carbon stored in the vegetation.

Managed by Terra Carbon Pty Limited (a GreenCollar subsidiary), the project is integrated with the property's commercial grazing operations. The landholder, Heather Cameron, has utilized the carbon revenue to upgrade station infrastructure, such as fencing and water points, which aids in managing grazing pressure. The preserved habitat supports a variety of native wildlife, including Geckos, Dunnarts, Bustards, and Quails. Additionally, the property hosts the "Lower Lila Retreat," a tourism venture that allows visitors to experience the outback environment protected by the carbon project.