Barnard Carbon Project

The Barnard Carbon Project is a soil carbon sequestration initiative located near the village of Hall, approximately 15km northwest of Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory. Registered in October 2021, the project covers a relatively small area of 28.53 hectares. The surrounding region is characterized by a mix of peri-urban rural holdings and grazing land, typically supporting sheep and cattle operations.

Operating under the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative-Measurement of Soil Carbon Sequestration in Agricultural Systems) Methodology Determination 2018, the project aims to increase soil organic carbon levels through improved land management. This specific methodology requires the proponent to empirically measure soil carbon stocks before and after implementing new activities. For the Barnard project, these activities include altering stocking rates to manage grazing intensity, applying synthetic or non-synthetic fertilizers to address nutrient deficiencies, and rejuvenating pastures through seeding.

The environment in this part of the ACT and bordering New South Wales is classified as having a temperate climate with moderate rainfall, typically averaging between 600mm and 700mm annually. The local soil profile is generally comprised of clay-based or duplex soils, which can often be shallow or rocky and naturally low in fertility, making the nutrient application and pasture establishment activities particularly relevant for boosting soil health and carbon storage. The project is managed by Agriprove Solutions, a prominent developer in the Australian soil carbon sector known for aggregating smaller landholdings into the carbon market.