“Removing carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in the land increases the soil’s organic carbon,” Mrs Sudmalis said, referring to soil carbon sequestration.

The result is an increase in farm productivity, adding soil nutrients and helping the soil to hold more water. 

“Gilmore has large areas of agricultural activity, including 39 dairy farms. Our farmers will be able to store carbon in their land and earn carbon credits. These carbon credits can then be sold back to the government. 

“This process will be done through the Australian government’s new Emissions Reduction Fund,” said Mrs Sudmalis. 

The Emissions Reduction Fund is part of the Australian government’s Direct Action Plan for a cleaner environment. 

Mrs Sudmalis said the Carbon Farming Initiative would help Australia meet its target of 5 per cent emissions reduction by 2020 compared to the year 2000. Farmers can choose from a range of activities including management of stubble, increasing the ratio of pasture land area to cropping land and retiring and restoring degraded land.

For more information on how to join and conduct a project contact Ann Sudmalis on  4423 1782.