Collingwood carbon biodiversity project 1464

Collingwood carbon biodiversity project 1464 is an environmental planting project located approximately 25 kilometers east of Cootamundra in the South West Slopes region of New South Wales. Registered in August 2023, the project covers a relatively small area of 19.76 hectares. The project operates on land managed by Collingwood Rural Pty Ltd (trading as Collingwood Farm), based in the nearby locality of Jugiong.

The surrounding region is a significant agricultural hub known for mixed farming operations. Land use in this area typically combines grazing for sheep (wool and fat lambs) and beef cattle with dryland cropping of cereals and oilseeds, such as wheat and canola. The local environment is characterized by a temperate climate with rainfall averaging between 600mm and 650mm annually, distributed relatively evenly throughout the year with a slight winter dominance. The soils in this vicinity are generally red earths (Red Chromosols or Kandosols), which are well-drained and highly regarded for their agricultural productivity.

This project utilizes the "Reforestation by Environmental or Mallee Plantings" methodology. This involves establishing a permanent mix of native tree and shrub species on land that has been clear of forest cover for at least five years prior to the project's commencement. The planting is designed to reach "forest cover" status, implying a stocking density sufficient to achieve 20% crown cover and a height of at least two meters. By restoring native vegetation, the project aims to sequester carbon in the growing biomass while simultaneously enhancing local biodiversity.