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Lab Forest Snellius

A public outdoor laboratory
A publicly accessible ‘Lab Forest’ is being created around the Snellius Building, where researchers will study the growth of native and non-native tree species and how they interact with biodiversity.

Location

Oaks, maples and pines

The Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) is planting sixteen clusters of trees next to the Snellius Building. Each cluster will have a native oak at its centre, surrounded by a mix of native and non-native maples and pines. The selected trees will support local biodiversity and will be complemented by a variety of shrubs. A total of 144 trees will be planted.

In this publicly accessible Lab Forest, researchers will study how the different tree species interact with one another and with other organisms, including insects, birds, soil organisms and plants. They will also examine how these interactions affect biodiversity.

The Lab Forest will be designed as a park, with a mix of open and more secluded areas, seating and picnic tables. Outdoor fitness equipment will also be available for public use.

The paths will be completed in summer 2026, followed by the planting in October. The Lab Forest is due to open before Christmas.

July 2026: The site is being prepared for the creation of the Lab Forest.
De technische tekening van het gebied.
In progress
  • Run time
    2026
  • Type
    Green space Sport
  • Landowner
    Universiteit Leiden
  • Roadworks Roadworks may affect traffic in the local area. For more information, please press the red button ‘All roadworks’.

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