Deschutes Riparian ReforestationVital Statistics Offsets: 233,333 metric tons carbon dioxide
Equivalent to taking 46,480 cars off the road for a year Project Type: Sequestration Project Lifetime: 50 years Contract Signing Date: 2002 Location: Oregon Project Partners: Deschutes River Conservancy
Project Description
The
Climate Trust has contracted to buy offsets from a Deschutes River Conservancy
(DRC) program that helps landowners in the Deschutes River Basin reforest denuded
riparian areas with native trees. The Deschutes River is one of Oregon’s
premier trout streams. Stock for replanting denuded stream banks are obtained
from remnant stands of local native species. As the trees grow, they absorb
carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and sequester it in biomass. The amount
of sequestration is being quantified according to a state-of-the-art monitoring
and verification plan. The Climate Trust funding pays DRC to recruit and provide
incentives to landowners to participate in the program. Landowners enter into
legally binding agreements to preserve the trees for at least 50 years.
How the project reduces CO2 This DRC program will expand riparian areas beyond federal guidelines and
ensure the trees are maintained for at least 50 years. By 2008, 1500 to 1800
acres of riparian habitat will be restored and actively sequestering carbon.
Through the planting and maintenance of native trees along riparian areas
of the Deschutes River Basin, this project demonstrates how organizations can
work together to restore riparian areas for water quality and fish and wildlife
habitat while sequestering carbon to reduce the impact of global climate change.
The carbon dioxide offsets from these sites will be quantified in accordance
with a sophisticated monitoring and verification plan. The Climate Trust will
acquire ownership of the sequestered carbon offsets from the DRC and the land
owners, and retire them on behalf of the environment.
Non-GHG Benefits
Improved water quality and stream flows
Improved fish and wildlife habitat
Increased aesthetic qualities
Additionality Criteria: Why We’re Involved
Without The Climate Trust’s funding, Deschutes River Conservancy
would not be able to fund the staff needed for this project. The Climate Trust’s
funding will also provide additional incentives for landowner participation
which is a key aspect to success in this type of project.
Partners
