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Carbon Credit Markets: A Resource for Farmers

The purpose of this website is to give information to farmers interested in, or already practicing, regenerative grazing. We aim to shed light on how farmers can tap into carbon markets as a source of income for engaging in regenerative practices. Read on to learn about receiving compensation for engaging in these practices through the sale of soil carbon credits. 

WHAT IS REGENERATIVE GRAZING:

Regenerative grazing is categorized by high stock densities, frequent rotation, and long recovery periods for paddocks. Additionally, these practices are in conjunction with low to no synthetic inputs or tillage. Doing so sequesters carbon, increases pasture and animal health, and improves soil quality, contributing to bettering services that ecosystems naturally provide, such as improved soil water retention.

Why is this important?
Farmers can get paid to sequester carbon on their land. Furthermore, improved soil health and water retention can reduce on-farm costs and improve crop growth.


By contrast, in a continuous grazing pattern, the cattle eat their preferred grasses first, which causes weeds to increase at a faster rate. Furthermore, the cattle will graze plants to the point where the forage cannot regenerate, preventing the root system from extending deeper into the soil profile. 

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WHY

WHY IMPLEMENT REGENERATIVE GRAZING:

When cattle are grazed in a rotational pattern, plant root systems develop more extensively and above-ground plant matter regenerates more rapidly. This encourages diverse forage as the plants develop at a more uniform rate. The new growth of the plants pulls carbon from the atmosphere through photosynthesis and sequesters the carbon via the root system into the soil.

Farms engaging in regenerative practices can participate in the carbon market and
receive payments for carbon sequestered over time. Regenerative grazing reduces the need for feed, fuel, and inorganic fertilizer. Additionally, regenerative grazing benefits soil health, prevents erosion, and improves water filtration. Consumers are often interested in purchasing more environmentally-friendly products, such as meat that has been grown sustainably.

Below, we illustrate the benefits of regenerative grazing in more detail. 

Financial Benefits

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Soil and Farm Health Benefits

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Community Benefits

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Financial Benefits

HOW

HOW CAN FARMERS REAP THESE BENEFITS:

The “voluntary carbon market” can be a confusing space to navigate.
We have attempted to shed light on some aspects of getting
involved in the voluntary carbon market. 

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Process Infographic

© 2022 by Regenerative Grazing NC, a project of Duke Bass Connections. 

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