At the intersection of Farm Lane and Service Road, next to Baker Woodlot, a grove of diverse conifer tree species forms the Hanover Pinetum, an artificial plantation established by former Michigan State University forestry professor, Dr. Jim Hanover. Hanover wanted to examine how different pine hybrids would adapt to the changing climate in Michigan. What began as an experimental forestry area has evolved into a lasting, valued woodland on campus.
One of the most recent wooded areas on the university campus, Hanover Pinetum commemorated its 50th anniversary in 2025. This wooded area, established as an investigative research plot, is one of many applied forestry studies performed by Dr. Hanover in 1975. It was designed to study genetic variation, adaptation, and performance across different hybrid pine species in Michigan.
Over time, this stand of trees has matured into a prominent grove of tree species, representing decades of forestry research in the campus landscape. It serves as a living laboratory, a teaching resource, and a quiet, accessible green space. Each day that students and faculty pass through the Pinetum illustrates how research landscapes can become lasting parts of campus life, shaping both research and everyday campus use.