Reservoirs for Nature (Stage 1)

Reservoirs for Nature (Stage 1) is an environmental planting project located across the Myponga and Mount Bold reservoir reserves, approximately 30 to 60 kilometres south of Adelaide in South Australia. It was registered in October 2025 and covers 319.05 hectares of previously cleared land. The surrounding land in the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula is typically used for agriculture, livestock grazing, and viticulture, while the immediate project areas serve as protected water catchments.

Environmental planting projects under the 2024 FullCAM methodology involve establishing and maintaining permanent plantings of mixed native tree and shrub species. The chosen species mix must reflect the structure and composition of the local native vegetation community and is typically planted at a density sufficient to reach a height of at least 2 metres and 20% crown cover, thereby achieving full forest cover.

The Mount Lofty Ranges and Fleurieu Peninsula region features a Mediterranean climate with reliable, relatively high winter rainfall compared to the rest of the state. Soils in these catchments are varied but commonly feature sandy loams over clay and podzolic soils, which are ideal for sustaining the native grassy woodlands targeted by the methodology.

Managed by the South Australian Water Corporation (SA Water), this project was established to restore natural ecosystems, strengthen water security, and dramatically improve local biodiversity. SA Water plans to reintroduce 130 native flora species, including 40 of conservation significance, and enhance habitat for 15 threatened fauna species. The project is projected to generate around 67,000 Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) over its 25-year crediting period. These credits will be used to offset emissions from SA Water's major operational infrastructure, most notably the Eyre Peninsula Desalination Plant. A recent administrative variation in September 2026 shifted the project's crediting period start date from September to November 2026.