The Mountain View Carbon Project, managed by Justin Costello in Tintaldra, Victoria, has seen a 26% improvement in stocking rates and also been issued the first round of Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) under the ACCU Scheme.
The project, initiated in 2020, covers 99.85 hectares of grazing land, demonstrating significant improvements in soil health and productivity through sustainable land management practices.
The total property includes three additional registered soil carbon projects, covering a total of 422 hectares of grazing land.
AgriProve continues to support landholders in leveraging innovative technology for efficient carbon credit issuance.
7 November 2024: The Mountain View Carbon Project, part of Justin Costello's farming operations, has successfully achieved its first issuance of Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs), marking a significant milestone in sustainable agriculture through enhanced productivity and soil health. Launched in 2020, the project focuses on improving soil capability and increasing the land's carrying capacity through innovative management practices. Since its inception, Justin has successfully implemented strategies that have led to a 26% improvement in stocking rates, showcasing the positive outcomes of his sustainable practices. The transition from monoculture annual rye to diverse multi-species pastures has not only reduced reliance on synthetic fertilisers but has also generated both economic and ecological benefits.
The management approach incorporates trials aimed at improving moisture management and soil health, benefiting deeper rooting and drought resilience. This focus on innovative practices has resulted in significant advancements in productivity. As one of the initial landholders to adopt the Tags for Tonnes program, Justin is utilising digital herd insights to facilitate infrastructure improvements on his farm. This data-driven approach aids in better management of grazing practices, leading to enhanced pasture quality and overall farm productivity.
Justin’s intent is to leverage the ACCUs issued from the Mountain View Carbon Project to access premium carbon-neutral beef markets. The issuance of these credits not only enhances the farm’s profitability but also serves as validation for the effective grazing management practices he has implemented. By demonstrating his commitment to sustainability through carbon farming, Justin is positioning his farm as a leader in the industry, aligning with consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.
The Mountain View Carbon Project leverages AgriProve’s advanced Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) model, which combines satellite imagery and ground measurements to monitor soil carbon changes effectively. This innovative approach expedites the credit issuance process, enabling landholders to realise the benefits of carbon credits in a shorter timeframe.
This milestone not only reflects the Costello family's dedication to enhancing soil health and productivity but also lays a strong foundation for their property's sustainability for generations to come.
Quotes from AgriProve General Manager AU, Stuart Upton
“AgriProve is proud to partner with Justin Costello and the Costello family. This project is another proof point that demonstrates our leadership in carbon farming but also showcases the trust that landholders across Australia place in us. Justin's commitment to sustainable practices reflects the dedication of his family to enhancing their farm for future generations. This project underscores how AgriProve’s trusted technology and process enables landholders to enhance their farming practices, resulting in tangible benefits for both the land and the farming operation.”
Quotes from Mountain View Carbon Project landholder Justin Costello
“Partnering with AgriProve has transformed our farming operations. The insights gained from soil testing and the shift towards rotational and mob grazing have improved our pasture quality and allowed us to manage our resources more sustainably.”
“Utilising the Tags for Tonnes program we have gained insights into our herd. These insights highlighted the importance of a better system for troughs and also implementation into the future for more shade for animals because we have been able to see a real benefit and also a real animal welfare benefit for having shade and shelterbelts”
“With AgriProve, we truly felt like they were collaborating with us on the project rather than just managing it. This was very important for our family when choosing to partner with them. AgriProve is a real business with real people who can deliver real results.”
Media contact: Daniel Wortmann 0448 187 650 [email protected]