Margaret Jennifer Grove Tree Project

The Margaret Jennifer Grove Tree Project is a large-scale environmental planting initiative located in the Mid West region of Western Australia, approximately 60km east of Binnu and 90km north of Northampton. Registered in May 2023, the project encompasses 1,336 hectares of land on the "Wattle Grove" property, a broadacre farm historically used for cropping cereals, lupins, and canola, as well as sheep grazing.

The project operates under the Reforestation by Environmental or Mallee Plantings methodology, utilizing the FullCAM model to estimate carbon sequestration. This method involves establishing permanent plantings of native tree species, such as those found in the local York gum and mallee woodlands, on land that has been clear of forest for at least five years. By planting at a density sufficient to achieve forest cover (typically over 200 stems per hectare), the project aims to restore local biodiversity while generating Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs). The specific "Margaret Jennifer Grove" name likely serves as a dedication or specific designation for the planted area within the wider Wattle Grove aggregation.

Environmentally, the region is situated in a semi-arid transition zone with an annual rainfall of approximately 300-350mm. The landscape is characterized by flat to gently undulating terrain with a mix of soil types, including mallee red loams, tamar sands, and yellow sandplains. These sandy and loamy soils are well-suited for the deep-rooted native vegetation being reintroduced. Interestingly, the Wattle Grove property was listed for sale in August 2023, shortly after the project's registration, highlighting a growing trend where established carbon projects are used to enhance the value and drought resilience of agricultural assets in marginal farming zones.