Study examines real consequences of carbon farming

Monash University, ScienceAlert 24 Aug 09;

Monash University's Australian Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) has launched a major research project into the benefits of 'carbon farming' -- the planting of trees to offset carbon emissions.

The five-year $4.9 million project will assess how effective and efficient carbon farming is at providing environmental benefits when compared to traditional farming, particularly during times of drought. Researchers will use the 2.4 million hectare Goulburn Broken catchment near Shepparton as an environmental case study.

Project Leader Dr Ross Thompson said the introduction of carbon farming was a positive step toward a more sustainable environment, but there are important knowledge gaps about its effects.

"There is concern that the carbon accrual and biodiversity benefits of revegetation may be counteracted by reductions in water yield. The project will forecast the effects of increasing reforestation on the Goulburn Broken catchment, by quantifying the water use, carbon storage and biodiversity values of different land uses, and understanding how increases in native vegetation affect those processes," Dr Thompson said.

"We will measure the exchange of carbon and water fluxes among soil, water, plants and the atmosphere and the impact this exchange will have on biodiversity values. Our sites will be situated within an agricultural zone which is most likely to be converted to carbon farming," Dr Thompson said.

Our sites will be selected within the Goulburn and Broken River valleys, considered to be Victoria's food bowl and one of the catchment's most at risk to ongoing drought and a drying climate. The research will focus on land uses including dry land agriculture, tree plantings of a range of ages and remnant woodland, and assesses terrestrial, aquatic and soil biodiversity.

The research results will be applicable to other catchment areas and act as a 'model' for future land-use planning.

"Carbon farming is looming as an important new land use both in Australia and internationally. Our research will identify both the costs and benefits of tree planting for carbon accrual. It essential information to allow land managers and landholders to make informed decisions, particularly in the face of the economic and social forces occurring as a result of the current drought " Dr Thompson said.

The research project assembles an expert team from Monash University including scientists who specialise in forest ecology, soil processes, terrestrial and freshwater ecology, and landscape modelling. Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment and, Environmental Protection Authority Victoria will also provide scientists to take part in the research.

The research is funded by an ARC Linkage grant with substantial contributions from the Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment, Catchment Management Authorities (Goulburn Broken, North Central), EPA Victoria and the investment company Kilter Pty Ltd.