Central West landholder Ian Chapman at his property in Stuart Town.
The State Government is continuing work to future proof the NSW agricultural industry `by investing $3 million to help farmers improve their farming operations, profitability and environmental sustainability through developing natural capital projects.
The funding will extend for another year the Government’s Natural Capital Support Services program, which is providing tailored advice and support for landholders to explore natural capital and environmental market opportunities.
Ian Chapman is a cattle farmer with a 1000 acre property in Stuart Town, Central West NSW. While the concept of natural capital is new, Ian started planting trees on his property in the late 90s, and in 2021.
Local Land Services helped Ian identify the right native species to plant and provided advice and support at the workshops and field days he attended.
Since then, he has planted more than 32,000 trees and shrubs across 40 hectares – more than 20 species of eucalypts, acacia, and more, providing many environmental benefits.
Ian can now apply for carbon credits under the Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) Scheme to generate an income from this project.
“My take on natural capital is working with nature and managing the resources you have.
“It’s hard work, and you need to have the inclination or the love of nature to do it, but with the right advice and support along with government incentives, it can be rewarding,” said Ian Chapman.
In farming, natural capital refers to the stock of natural resources—like soil, water, plants, animals, and ecosystems—that farmers rely on to produce food, fibre, and other goods.
It’s called “capital” because, like financial or physical capital, these resources provide ongoing benefits, but only if they’re managed and maintained in good condition.
By investing in natural capital farmers may be able to access environmental markets and apply for biodiversity credits to generate a potential income from these projects.
The Natural Capital Support Services program is providing tailored advice and support for landholders to explore natural capital and environmental market opportunities.
Local Land Services’ natural capital advisors can help landholders understand what environmental market opportunities may be available to them.
Landholders are encouraged to contact their nearest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299 or visit the website for more information.