One approach to carbon sequestration is to increase the carbon uptake stored in terrestrial ecosystems. Research efforts by BSCSP have explored cropland, rangeland, and forestry environments as viable resource management options for carbon sequestration. Quantifying appropriate land management practices that optimize soil carbon capture and storage is instrumental to the success of (a central objective of) BSCSP terrestrial sequestration efforts. In addition, the Partnership supports the development and implementation of a carbon market by providing guidance on land management practices that maximize carbon storage.

Terrestrial Sequestration Options

• Cropland: In order to assess measurable storage of atmospheric CO2 in soil, the BSCSP will conduct a series of field validation tests in cropland environments. The study area, located in North Central Montana, consists of ten enrolled farms and is the most representative cropping region in the state. During the field validation tests, sites utilizing a range of management practices and extending over the duration of the project will be monitored for soil carbon content. Specific protocols for measuring, mitigating, and verifying soil carbon change processes will be developed. Furthermore, all core sampling units will be analyzed using a visible and near-infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (VisNIR-DRS) and a laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). Alternative sampling units will be analyzed for organic and inorganic carbon using conventional laboratory methods.

• Rangeland: Different rangeland practices may influence carbon sequestration potential. Part of the Partnership’s research on terrestrial sequestration analyzes the culminated effects of grazing on rangelands. The spatial and temporal distribution of grazing patterns, as well as grazing intensity and other land management practices, can produce measurable differences in soil carbon content. To assess carbon sequestration potential in rangeland environments, the BSCSP conducted a series of field studies at three sites located in northern Wyoming. Results from the field tests will be used to develop appropriate monitoring, mitigating, and verification (MMV) protocols.

• Forestry:Based on Phase I assessment, the BSCSP identified forest sites with the greatest potential to store and capture carbon. Similar to the cropland and rangeland studies, the Partnership conducted field validation tests to determine the best land management practices suitable for optimal carbon sequestration. Test results and additional field measurements from soil and vegetation sampling were analyzed and calibrated to produce the most accurate estimation of carbon sequestration potential. Remote sensing imagery was also used to evaluate and monitor site areas.

• Carbon Markets: The BSCSP supports the creation of a viable carbon market. The Partnership’s efforts towards establishing a carbon market exchange have been directed towards infrastructural development. Accordingly, the BSCSP actively engages with local and regional landowners to implement carbon sequestration projects that maximize carbon storage via appropriate land management practices. In addition, the Partnership has produced carbon sequestration manuals, landowner handbooks, MMV protocols, and responsibilities for participants interested in carbon market opportunities. The BSCSP has contracted terms with potential buyers to ensure that national standards are adhered to and necessary regulatory procedures are followed.