Tempello Biodiversity Project, Marlborough
Forest Type - Indigenous
Emission Reductions
7,270 tCO2e total stored
700 tCO2e annual removals
Start Date - 1996
Project Type - Reforestation
308 hectares
Standard - Permanent Forest Sink Initiative (PFSI)
Tempello is a 4,800 hectare family farm established in 1913 located in Marlborough in the Wairau Ecological Region. The central part includes a 1,600 hectare area of forest recognised as a key conservation spot in the South Island. More than 300 hectares are registered with the PFSI.
The forest is original Marlborough indigenous dryland forest comprising a wide range of species, from manuka, black and red beech, totara and matai forests. The vegetation also comprises remnants of original forest species and provides a window into the ecological history of the area.
The forest supports an incredibly diverse native fauna, from birds including riflemans, robins and tomtits, lizards, invertebrates and freshwater fauna. Since 2009, the owners have been implementing a conservation policy mainly based around strict weed and pest control, including the hunting of thousands of goats and strategic fencing. They also actively plant pink native broom in the hope to colonise the area with seed and are working on implementing a wild pine project as part of a Wilding Pines Community Partnership Project with neighbouring farmers.
The farm supports an broad range of activities, from growing wool, vineyards, merino sheep and beef cattle with a strong focus on sustainable practices. Carbon farming allows the owners to diversify their income and further their conservation activities to preserve the land. The property tracks are well-maintained and accessible with permission to share the unique biodiversity of the region.
