What 20% canopy cover looks like
The Reforestation by environmental or mallee plantings FullCAM method 2024 states that Environmental Plantings projects involve planting native, locally endemic trees and shrubs to a density greater than 200 stems per ha which have the potential to develop into a forest.
Many people equate Environmental Plantings (EP) with creating dense, closed-canopy forests. Another misconception is the assumption that more trees equal more carbon.
In reality, both assumptions overlook the nuance (and complexity) of EP projects, as we explore below.
What is a forest?
For the purposes of this method, a forest is defined as vegetation where:
- trees reach a minimum height of 2 metres, and
- the combined canopy (crown) cover extends over at least 20% of the total project area where the trees are planted.
The crown of a tree is the part made up of its branches and leaves. Crown cover (also referred to canopy cover) means how much of the ground area is covered by the tree crowns when viewed from above.
So 20% is really only sparsely covered land. Here’s a simple visual comparing 20% crown cover (sparser, more open land) with 60% crown cover (denser, forest-like).
A mosaics of trees and open spaces are often closer to natural woodland ecosystems than dense monocultures.
More trees ≠ more carbon
People often assume “more trees = more carbon”. In reality, what matters is long-term survival and suitability of species to the site. Planting too densely can cause trees to compete heavily for light, water, and nutrients, which can lead to die-off and reduced project success.
EP projects balance density with ecosystem resilience, often designing plantings to mimic natural succession rather than force unnatural density.
Biodiversity Benefits
EP is about restoring functioning ecosystems, not just planting trees.
Lower canopy density allows more sunlight to reach the ground, supporting grasses, herbs, and shrubs that add biodiversity, supporting pollinators, birds, and ground-dwelling animals.
Open canopy systems can also create habitat variety: some species prefer edge environments, grassy understory, or light gaps.
The 20% canopy cover 'rule' also comes with practical benefits, such as easier to manage fire risk, ability to integrate other land uses, such as grazing and also reducing costs of establishment and maintenance.
We strongly believe that knowing what 20% canopy cover looks like, will open up much more landholder, and thus land to restoration. Get in touch with our team to learn more.