Through a grassland carbon program, the POA initiative seeks to expand regenerative livestock farming in the Argentine Patagonia, helping to restore degraded lands while generating additional income for agricultural producers.
The project’s name refers to the queen of forage most valued by Patagonian livestock, symbolizing its focus on sustainability and productivity.
An ambitious conservation plan
POA aims to improve 3 million hectares in the region, becoming the first project in South America with Verra certification.
The initiative is driven by an alliance between Ovis 21, Ruuts, and Native, with the goal of boosting agricultural production, improving pasture health, and strengthening the well-being of rural communities.
First results and program expansion
Currently, four fields already receive pre-sale funding for credits, totaling 43,000 hectares.
Additionally:
- 18 establishments have signed contracts, covering 241,000 hectares.
- 70 producers have started the adherence process, encompassing 1.4 million hectares.
The program, which began in 2024, has shown positive results and continues to attract participants.
Presentation and producers’ experiences
The program was presented to about fifty producers at Estancia La Tapera in Fuentes del Coyle, Santa Cruz.
At the event Regenera Santa Cruz, Mariano Illarragorri and Cintia Alvado, administrators of one of the first fields to receive funding, shared their experience with regenerative livestock farming and the changes applied to be part of POA.
How the carbon system works
POA promotes the transition from continuous grazing to a model of regenerative livestock farming, based on planned grazing with alternation between moderate grazing and long rests.
This method improves field productivity, while producers can sell carbon credits, contributing to the safe carbon capture in the soil.
History and development of Ovis 21
The company Ovis 21 was founded in 2003 in Río Gallegos, driven by the Fenton family, owners of Estancia Monte Dinero, along with Pablo Borrelli and Alejandra Canosa.
Its initial mission was to improve the sustainability of sheep production, creating a network of collaboration and learning. In 2004, the company introduced the Multipurpose Merino genetics from Australia, which strengthened quality protocols and allowed the evolution of Patagonian flocks.
Requirements to participate in the program
As in all carbon programs, POA requires producers to sign a long-term contract, ensuring the continuity of management changes in the field.
The system offers financing, allowing producers to invest in:
- Water and wire infrastructure.
- Paddock subdivision.
- Implementation of grazing rests.
To participate, producers must own fields of over 5,000 hectares and commit to holistic and regenerative management practices, receiving technical assistance and free monitoring from Ovis 21.
With this model, POA aims to transform agricultural production in Patagonia, ensuring a more sustainable and profitable future for producers.
Cover Photo: INTA
*With information from LN Campo
