Soil Carbon Improvement Project through Grassland Management, in South Africa

This project aims to remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere by implementing sustainable grazing management and controlled fire in multiple grasslands across the Drakensberg area of South Africa. Historically, overgrazing and uncontrolled fires have depleted soil organic matter, reduced vegetation cover, and decreased forage production. The project activities, including planned rotational grazing and controlled burning, aim to increase the rest and rotation periods on pastures. By using fencing to create smaller pastures and implementing more frequent rotations, the project facilitates the recovery of perennial grasses, leading to increased carbon inputs and greater belowground production, ultimately sequestering greenhouse gases in the soil.   Environmental Benefits: The project is expected to result in significant removal of CO2 from the atmosphere by enhancing soil carbon storage. It aims to restore degraded grassland ecosystems, which also helps in water conservation, reduces drought and flood risk, promotes soil nutrient cycles, and improves the local micro-climate. The project activities are environmentally friendly and have positive impacts on the environment and biodiversity.   Social and Community Benefits: The project provides increased employment opportunities, improved family income, and training and education opportunities for local herders and residents. It aims to empower women and build community capacity in gender equity. By restoring degraded grasslands, the project contributes to a more pleasant living environment and has the potential to benefit local tourism, promoting the local economy.