Dataset for: Assessment of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) in the Community of Picotani, Peru during the Dry Season of 2024

"The extraction of carbon was carried out in Picotani, Puno, Peru during the Dry Season of 2024. Sampling was conducted at one central point and four sub-points located along the cardinal axes. At each point, a soil auger was inserted to a depth of 30 cm, corresponding to the sampling section of the instrument. In cases where insertion was not possible due to abundant roots (champas), high soil compaction, or the presence of rocks, prior cleaning was performed using a pickaxe. After extraction at the five points (central point and vertices of the sampling polygon), the soil material collected from the auger was transferred into a plastic bucket using spatulas. The soil was then ground, homogenized, and small stones, roots, and other residues were removed. From the homogenized soil, a subsample of approximately 1.0–1.5 kg was obtained and stored for subsequent analysis. The concentration of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) in the soils of the area was found to range between 50 and 500 t/ha, depending on natural vegetation. The results generated by the project indicate significant potential for linking vicuña breeding to carbon markets."