Kurrumbulla Soil Carbon Project

The Kurrumbulla Soil Carbon Project is a soil carbon sequestration initiative located in the Western District of Victoria, approximately 25km north of Mortlake and near the locality of Dundonnell. Registered in July 2023, the project covers nearly 347 hectares within the Ararat Rural City local government area. The region is widely recognized for its rich agricultural heritage, predominantly supporting sheep and cattle grazing as well as mixed cropping operations on the expansive volcanic plains.

The project operates under the "Estimation of Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration using Measurement and Models" methodology. This framework allows landholders to earn Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) by implementing new management activities that increase the amount of carbon stored in the soil. A key requirement of this method is the rigorous measurement of baseline soil carbon levels followed by subsequent rounds of sampling or modelling to quantify increases over time. For this specific project, the primary management activity involves applying lime or other ameliorants to remediate acid soils. By correcting soil acidity, the project aims to improve pasture health and root growth, which in turn drives higher rates of carbon sequestration.

Environmentally, the Western District is characterized by its fertile but often heavy basalt and clay soils derived from ancient volcanic activity. While these soils are naturally productive, they can be susceptible to acidification, particularly in the higher rainfall zones typical of this region. The climate is generally temperate with reliable winter-spring rainfall, providing ideal conditions for the pasture growth necessary to build soil carbon. Australian Soil Management Pty Ltd acts as a participant in the project, providing the technical expertise required to manage the complex baselining and reporting obligations.