Native woodland regeneration project RYA21

Native woodland regeneration project RYA21 is a Human-Induced Regeneration project located at Ryandale Station, approximately 125km east of Cunnamulla in the Mulga Lands bioregion of South West Queensland. It was registered on February 5, 2022, and covers 13,963.11 hectares. The project is managed by the proponent, Carbon Regeneration Pty Ltd, alongside the agent Tasman Environmental Markets Australia Pty Ltd.

Human-Induced Regeneration (HIR) projects involve regenerating native forest by changing agricultural land management practices. In this methodology, proponents allow native vegetation to regenerate by ceasing widespread mechanical or chemical clearing, sustainably managing the timing and extent of livestock grazing, and humanely controlling pest species like feral pigs and goats. Standard requirements dictate that the forest must achieve a density of at least 20% canopy cover and reach a height of 2 metres using only in-situ seed sources, such as rootstock and lignotubers.

The region surrounding Cunnamulla and the broader Mulga Lands bioregion is traditionally known for large-scale sheep and cattle grazing operations. The environment is semi-arid, characterized by a hot, dry climate with highly variable, low annual rainfall. Soils in this bioregion are typically infertile, sandy red earths and undulating clay plains, which require careful management to prevent degradation after historical land clearing.

This specific project was established to restore permanent native woodlands on land that was previously cleared of vegetation and where natural regrowth had been continuously suppressed for at least 10 years before the project commenced. In addition to the carbon abatement benefits, Tasman Environmental Markets employs local, on-ground staff who frequently travel to the project area to implement fire and pest species management activities, fostering strong relationships with local graziers and agistees to ensure the land is managed sustainably.