The first decade of the Antenne romande WSL between 1990 and 2000 is presented under the institutional point of view and the research and extension activities are commented. Far beyond the concepts which were aimed at at the time of its foundation, this new structure had to adapt itself to a continuously changing context, despite the scarce means. Some of its results actually show an innovative character, which is mainly due to the quality of the human relations established and to the enthusiasm brought along by all the research partners involved. The AR-WSL took advantage of synergies reaching beyond the field of forestry. In order to transmit innovative impulses to Swiss forestry through research and practice, it could be of interest to involve non-forest scientists in the management of renewable natural resources. Taking action from its location at the EPF Lausanne, the Antenne romande has decided to implement this solution.