Aelmoeseneiebos

Aelmoeseneiebos is a small but ecologically rich forest straddling the border between Landskouter (municipality of Oosterzele) and Gontrode (Merelbeke-Melle) in East Flanders, Belgium. Covering roughly 28.5 hectares, it has served for decades as an experimental forest of Ghent University, managed by the university's Laboratory for Forest and Nature. The site blends scientific research with public recreation, drawing walkers, nature observers and school groups alongside long-running forestry studies.

Where does the name come from?

The forest's name traces back to its historical owners. For centuries the land belonged to Ghent's Sint-Baafs Abbey (Sint-Baafsabdij), specifically to its charitable arm, the "aalmoezenie" — a medieval almshouse system that supported the poor. Income from the forest funded this charitable institution, which is how it came to be known as Aelmoeseneiebos, roughly "the almshouse forest."

How old is this forest?

Aelmoeseneiebos ranks among the region's older surviving forest tracts — it already appears on the Ferraris map of 1775, documenting continuous forest cover since at least the late 18th century. After centuries under ecclesiastical ownership, the Belgian state purchased the forest in 1967-1968 with the intention of handing it to Ghent University as an experimental site for forestry and ecological research.

What grows and lives in Aelmoeseneiebos?

Oak and beech dominate the tree canopy, while ash and maple take over in the moister stream valleys. Biological surveys carried out across the forest have recorded an impressive range of biodiversity — researchers have documented more than 1,300 different species, including 64 tree and shrub species and nearly 600 invertebrate species. This level of documentation makes Aelmoeseneiebos one of the more thoroughly studied forests of its size in Flanders.

What's notable about the layout of the site?

A distinctive feature of the landscape is the Ghent–Geraardsbergen railway line, which physically splits the forest into two sections. Despite this division, both halves function as a connected ecosystem, linked by a network of walking paths used by local residents and participants in organized nature walks alike.

Are there events held in the forest?

Yes — Aelmoeseneiebos regularly hosts themed walks and nature events organized by local associations and resident groups from Landskouter, such as spring observation walks or species-counting campaigns for plants and animals. These initiatives engage the local community in monitoring the forest's condition and help introduce its history and ecological value to a wider audience.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Aelmoeseneiebos located? On the border between Landskouter (municipality of Oosterzele) and Gontrode (municipality of Merelbeke-Melle), in East Flanders, Belgium.

Who manages the forest? Ghent University, through its Laboratory for Forest and Nature, uses the site as an experimental forest.

How large is the forest? Approximately 28.5 hectares.

Can visitors walk through it? Yes, walking paths cross the area, and themed walks and nature events are regularly organized in and around the forest.