Springfield Soil Carbon Project

The Springfield Soil Carbon Project is a soil carbon sequestration initiative located on the "Springfield" property, approximately 17km northwest of Cootamundra in the South West Slopes region of New South Wales. Registered in September 2022, the project encompasses 950 hectares of mixed-farming land. The property is situated along Stockinbingal Road and is part of a region renowned for its prime grazing and cropping capability, characterized by rolling hills and fertile valleys.

The project operates under the 2021 Soil Carbon Methodology (Measurement and Models), which credits landholders for increasing Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) stocks. To achieve this, the project involves implementing new or materially different management activities, specifically altering the stocking rate, duration, or intensity of grazing. By optimizing grazing pressure, likely through rotational or time-controlled grazing strategies, the project aims to improve ground cover and soil health, thereby enhancing the soil's natural capacity to capture and store atmospheric carbon.

Environmentally, the Cootamundra region typically experiences a temperate climate with an average annual rainfall of approximately 600mm to 650mm, which is considered reliable for pasture growth. The soils in this area are generally described as Red Chromosols or well-drained loams, which are productive but can be susceptible to acidity or structure decline if over-utilized. These conditions are favorable for soil carbon projects, as consistent moisture and good soil structure support the microbial activity necessary for sequestration.

A notable aspect of this project is its proponent, New Kayarem Pty Limited, which is the agricultural trading vehicle for the Murdoch family. The property "Springfield" (sometimes referred to as Springvale in real estate listings) was acquired by the family in 2021 and is home to the prestigious Bogo Merino Stud. The project is managed in collaboration with Carbon Link, a leading aggregator that utilizes high-tech soil measurement systems. The Murdoch family’s agricultural portfolio, including the nearby Cavan Station, has been active in the carbon market, previously completing a landmark private sale of soil carbon credits to Microsoft.