Landcare In Focus November 2010 Edition

THE LAND | Thursday, November 25, 2010 1● ● ● ● THE future of carbon trading may be unclear, says National Landcare facilitator, Brett de Hayr, but unlike almost everything else to do with emissions abatement, soil carbon sequestration can still be pursued... More

THE LAND | Thursday, November 25, 2010 1● ● ● ● THE future of carbon trading may be unclear, says National Landcare facilitator, Brett de Hayr, but unlike almost everything else to do with emissions abatement, soil carbon sequestration can still be pursued “with no regrets”. Little wonder soil carbon is generating great interest and discussion among Landcare groups. “It’s not just a potential source of income under carbon trading, but offers productivity and environmental benefits that will accrue regardless,” Mr de Hayr said. Another reason soil carbon is being discussed is that much remains to be learned about the topic. Some new research initiatives are underway to deliver more baseline data, but while those projects are underway Mr de Hayr suggests landholders wanting to know more should seek out A Farmers Guide to Soil Carbon Under Pasture by Dr Yin Chan from the NSW Department of Industry and Innovation, or CSIRO’s fact sheet, “Soil Carbon: The Basics” (November 2008), which Less