Naturi Aggregation Soil Carbon Project

Naturi Aggregation Soil Carbon Project is a soil carbon sequestration project located in the Maranoa region of Queensland, situated approximately 60km northeast of Surat and 50km west of Condamine. Registered in November 2021, the project covers a substantial area of 8,423 hectares within the larger "Naturi Aggregation," a pastoral holding positioned along the Condamine River.

The project operates under the 2018 Soil Carbon methodology (Measurement of Soil Carbon Sequestration in Agricultural Systems). This methodology requires the proponent to measure soil carbon stocks through physical sampling before and after implementing new management activities. For this specific project, the primary activity involves altering the stocking rate, duration, or intensity of grazing. By optimizing grazing pressure, the project aims to improve ground cover and root biomass, thereby sequestering more atmospheric carbon into the soil profile.

The region is characterized by a semi-arid to subtropical climate with an average annual rainfall of approximately 550mm to 600mm. The local landscape, particularly along the Condamine River floodplain, is known for its fertile soil types, predominantly heavy cracking clays (Vertosols) and alluvial loams. These soils are highly regarded for their moisture-holding capacity and suitability for cattle fattening. The land use is primarily grazing, with the Naturi Aggregation serving as a finishing property for livestock.

The project is associated with Willinga Pastoral Co, which utilizes the Naturi Aggregation to finish steers for grass or grain-fed markets. This integration highlights the project's dual focus on sustainable beef production and environmental stewardship. The aggregation was previously noted in industry news for its scale and strategic location, stretching between major regional hubs, and is part of a broader trend of integrating carbon farming with high-value cattle operations in the Maranoa district.