Michael and Kathy Carey Soil Carbon Project

The Michael and Kathy Carey Soil Carbon Project is a soil carbon sequestration initiative located in the Riverina region of New South Wales, situated approximately 10km northwest of The Rock and 25km southwest of the major regional city of Wagga Wagga. Registered in January 2022, the project covers a substantial area of 1,481 hectares. The region is a significant agricultural hub known for mixed farming, particularly grazing and dryland cropping. The landscape is characterized by red-brown earth soils and receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 500-600mm, placing it in a temperate zone that supports productive pasture systems.

This project operates under the 2021 Soil Carbon methodology (Estimation of Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration using Measurement and Models). This method credits landholders for increasing the amount of carbon stored in their soil through changes in management practices. The specific activity undertaken by the proponents involves applying nutrients in the form of synthetic or non-synthetic fertilizers to address material soil deficiencies. This approach aims to stimulate plant growth and root biomass, which in turn increases the input of carbon into the soil profile.

The proponent, Michael "Mick" Carey, is a recognized figure in the local agricultural community, often associated with operations near Coolamon (north of this specific site) and innovative grazing strategies. Public case studies suggest the operation has integrated products such as "Carbon Boost" (a nutrient/biostimulant) alongside multispecies pastures to enhance soil biology. Reports indicate that these management changes have not only aimed at carbon sequestration but have also been linked to improved lamb growth rates and water-holding capacity in the soil.