From Abandoned Farmland to Thriving Ecosystem
Foreningen Runespire Skov represents a remarkable community-driven initiative to restore Denmark's natural landscape. Located at Tornelundsvej 1 in Haslev, this 3-hectare project transforms neglected agricultural land into a vibrant forest ecosystem that serves as both environmental restoration and scientific research ground.
"If we do something good for nature, we are really doing something good for each other."
— Jack Nikogosian, Founder and Chairman
The Restoration Challenge
The site presents unique challenges that make this project particularly meaningful. Years of agricultural use left behind piles of soil, construction materials, and roofing sheets. Located above important groundwater resources, the land requires careful environmental management in collaboration with authorities and experts.
Rather than viewing these challenges as obstacles, the project sees them as opportunities to demonstrate comprehensive environmental stewardship. The restoration work not only cleans up historical contamination but also protects vital groundwater resources while creating new natural habitats.
Ambitious Restoration Goals
Scale and Impact
The project encompasses an area equivalent to four football fields, providing substantial potential for ecological transformation:
- 3 Hectares of Land - Converting abandoned farmland into sustainable forest
- Up to 6,000 Trees - Creating new habitats and biodiversity corridors
- 50 Tons of CO₂ Annually - Contributing to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration
Multi-Faceted Approach
Runespire's work extends beyond simple tree planting to encompass comprehensive ecosystem restoration:
- Forest Establishment - Native tree species and mixed woodland creation
- Agroforestry Integration - Combining trees with sustainable land use practices
- Nature Restoration - Rebuilding local ecosystems and wildlife habitats
- Research and Education - Scientific study and community learning opportunities
Environmental and Community Benefits
Climate Impact
The restored forest will serve as a significant carbon sink, capturing atmospheric CO₂ and helping mitigate climate change. Each mature tree contributes to long-term carbon storage while improving local air quality and soil health.
Biodiversity Enhancement
By planting diverse native species, the project creates habitats for local wildlife, supports pollinators, and contributes to Denmark's biodiversity goals. The forest will become a living laboratory for studying ecological restoration techniques.
Community Value
The restored landscape provides recreational spaces, educational opportunities, and serves as a model for other restoration projects. Community involvement ensures the forest remains a shared resource that benefits local residents for generations.
Practical Restoration Methods
The project employs scientifically-grounded restoration techniques:
- Site Assessment and Planning - Comprehensive environmental evaluation and restoration strategy development
- Soil Remediation - Safe removal and proper disposal of historical waste materials
- Native Species Selection - Choosing appropriate tree and plant species for local conditions
- Community Planting Events - Engaging local volunteers in restoration activities
- Ongoing Monitoring - Tracking growth, health, and ecological development
Long-Term Vision
Runespire Forest represents more than environmental restoration—it's an investment in Denmark's natural heritage. The project demonstrates how community action, scientific expertise, and environmental stewardship can transform degraded land into thriving ecosystems.
As the forest matures, it will serve as a model for similar initiatives across Denmark and Europe, proving that abandoned agricultural land can become valuable natural assets that benefit climate, wildlife, and human communities alike.
The transformation from "forladt landbrug til levende natur" (abandoned farmland to living nature) embodies the project's philosophy that environmental restoration creates lasting value for everyone involved.