Timber plantation planting has commenced at Rock House Farm in Kyneton.
The planting has been made possible by a $94,350 investment through the Victoria Carbon Farming Program from the state government.
“This is such an amazing initiative – supporting our local farmers and communities in practical ways that make a real difference on the ground,” Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said.
Phase one of the planting was completed recently, representing 10 per cent of the total area that will be planted next year. The program supports farmers to diversify income streams by growing trees for multiple purposes including shade and shelter, erosion control, timber production and the option to offset on-farm emissions.
The heritage property, Rock House Farm, is establishing a 19-hectare mixed species timber plantation in partnership with forestry service provider, wood4good.
The project uses a method called ‘regenerative forestry’ which helps restore the land to a condition where it can thrive. The project is expected to sequester around 7,000 tonnes of carbon over the next 25 years.
Using this approach, wood4good has supported Rock House Farm to design a plantation using a mix of hardwood timber species. The plantation will be managed for timber production but also generate a range of environmental benefits like restoring water and soil health and the productivity of agricultural land.
Once the trees have matured, the farm will experience the full benefits of on-farm plantations, including improved shade and shelter for stock, enhanced biodiversity as well as a new revenue stream from the harvesting of wood products.
