The Märynummi forest area in Salo, acquired by Turku University of Applied Sciences, protects a valuable hazel grove and serves as a research and learning environment

Turku University of Applied Sciences has acquired a forest area in Märynummi, Salo, to preserve the natural values of the valuable hazel grove. The area also serves as a research site for nature management measures.

Turku University of Applied Sciences aims to be climate and nature positive in its overall impact, i.e. to operate in such a way that the overall impact of its activities is positive for the climate and nature. This is achieved by reducing the climate and nature footprint in all activities and, for example, through the recently acquired nature management work in the Märynummi area of Salo.

–We have been looking for a long time for an area that fits all our nature objectives. The Märynummi site is suitable for teaching, research and recreational use, and it will enable us to protect a valuable area for future generations to enjoy, says Vesa Taatila, Rector and President of Turku University of Applied Sciences.

–Turku University of Applied Sciences has several research and development projects aimed at strengthening sustainability and improving the state of nature. This new land gives us excellent opportunities for new project openings, and at the same time it offers students the chance to learn and apply knowledge in a living lab-type learning environment, continues Taru Konst, Senior Lecturer and Sustainability Coordinator.

The 42 ha Märynummi area in Salo comprises valuable forest, partly protected hazel grove and riverside nature. The forest areas will be managed through a habitat survey and a subsequent management plan. The ELY Centre of Southwest Finland was consulted in the search for a suitable nature area.

An important part of Turku University of Applied Sciences’ climate and nature work is education and research, which trains future experts in various fields in the basic knowledge of sustainable development and develops solutions to environmental problems in research projects.

The acquisition of the nature management and research area implements the nature objectives of the City of Turku’s LUMO (biodiversity) programme (2023-2029) and the climate objectives of Turku University of Applied Sciences’ target agreement with the Ministry of Education and Culture.

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