Verra has opened a Request for Applications (PDF) from qualified experts experienced in digital soil mapping (DSM) models or hybrid approaches such as DSM models combined with biogeochemical models (BGCMs). Successful applicants will serve as independent modeling experts (IMEs) to review DSM Model Validation Reports (DSM-MVRs) from projects using the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) tool VT0014 Estimating Organic Carbon Stocks Using Digital Soil Mapping.
Approved DSM-IMEs will be added to a publicly available roster on the Verra website and may be contracted by validation/verification bodies (VVBs) to support assessments of projects’ VT0014 use. Verra does not contract DSM-IMEs.
The roles and responsibilities of an approved IME are as follows:
- Review, assess, and write up findings on DSM-MVR documents to confirm whether use of a DSM model is consistent with the guidance and requirements of VT0014.
- Ensure compliance with the relevant VCS methodologies and modules and their guidance on quantification approaches for soil organic carbon using models and measurements. Methodologies and modules that may be used in conjunction with VT0014 include the following:
- VM0032 Methodology for the Adoption of Sustainable Grasslands through Adjustment of Fire and Grazing
- VM0042 Improved Agricultural Land Management
- VMD0053 Model Calibration, Validation, and Uncertainty Guidance for Biogeochemical Modeling for Agricultural Land Management Projects (for use case 1 in VT0014)
- Coordinate with VVBs to resolve the IME’s findings
- Issue IME evaluation reports
For more information on the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, and requisite skills and qualifications, please see the Request for Applications. Verra is accepting applications until otherwise noted and will review submissions on a rolling basis.