MAKAG Carbon Project

The MAKAG Carbon Project is a soil carbon sequestration project located in the Central West region of New South Wales, approximately 45km southwest of Dubbo and 30km northeast of Peak Hill. Registered in September 2023, the project spans a significant area of 7,431 hectares. The land in this region is typical of the NSW Wheat-Sheep Belt, utilized primarily for mixed farming operations that combine cropping (wheat, canola) with livestock grazing.

This project operates under the 2021 Soil Organic Carbon methodology, specifically using the "Measurement and Models" approach. This method involves implementing new land management activities to increase soil carbon stocks, which are then measured over time to generate Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs). The specific activity nominated for this project is the application of synthetic or non-synthetic fertilizers to address material nutrient deficiencies. By correcting these deficiencies, the project aims to boost plant growth and root biomass, thereby drawing more carbon from the atmosphere into the soil profile.

The environmental conditions in the Peak Hill and Dubbo district are characterized by a semi-arid to temperate climate with an annual rainfall of approximately 550mm. The soils in this area are generally red-brown earths (Chromosols) and clay loams, which are productive but can be susceptible to nutrient depletion after long-term cropping. The project has a nominated permanence period of 25 years, committing the landholders to maintain the stored carbon for that duration.

The project proponents are Matthew and Alana Kerin, trustees for the MAKAG Family Trust, who are established agricultural operators in the region. They are working in conjunction with Climate Friendly Pty Ltd, a well-known carbon service provider. The choice to focus on nutrient application suggests a targeted strategy to unlock the soil's productive potential, creating a co-benefit of improved pasture or crop yields alongside carbon revenue.