Category: Songibrd

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker

The Final Day of City Nature Challenge YXE: A Nature Lover’s Last Call!

Today is Monday, April 28, and while it marks the final day of the City Nature Challenge YXE 2025, don’t despair! The clock may be ticking, but there’s still time for one last big adventure out in the wilds of our city. The last official event of the challenge is tonight, but even if you can’t make it, you can still get outside and enjoy the extended daylight hours that spring has so graciously granted us. After all, sunset won’t happen until around 8:30 p.m., so there’s plenty of time to catch a glimpse of nature doing its thing, and there is plenty of songs from nature to be heard after that!

Spring is in full swing, and as you head out, your trusty iNaturalist app will be there to document everything you encounter. Whether it’s a surprising wildflower sprouting by the sidewalk or an odd insect making a swift getaway, every moment is an opportunity to connect with the natural world. This week has been about more than just collecting data – it’s been a celebration of the quirks, humor, and wonderful surprises of nature. Who would’ve thought that urban wildlife could be so hilarious and downright delightful?

So what have we learned from the last few days of observing? Let’s get into some of the wildest and wackiest observations you might make out on your final hike:

The Case of the Lazy Bumblebee: If you’ve ever seen a bumblebee just hanging out on a dandelion, not buzzing about like usual, you might wonder: Is it napping? Maybe. Is it too full from all that nectar? Quite possibly. That adorable bumbling friend might just surprise you by being totally chill – it’s a nature mystery that’s both perplexing and endearing!
The Lurking Squirrel Conspiracy: Squirrels are everywhere, but have you noticed their absolutely theatrical behavior? One minute they’re darting up a tree, the next they’re freeze-frame statues on the lawn. What are they up to? Squirrel shenanigans are an ever-present source of entertainment. Are they plotting? Are they rehearsing for an Oscar-winning performance? You decide.
When Trees Talk Back: Ever look at a tree and wonder if it’s judging you? No? Well, next time you stand beneath a towering pine or elm, take a moment to appreciate the sheer majesty. You might catch yourself thinking, If I were that tree, I’d probably be considering my options for the next 50 years. Nature doesn’t just grow, it observes.
The Accidental Frog Parade: Springtime is when frogs make their grand entrances. A quick hop across a muddy trail and suddenly, you’ve discovered the amphibian procession you didn’t know you were looking for. Tiny frogs, big frogs, frogs with questionable jumping skills – they’re all part of the show. And remember, those little guys love to croak back at you when you least expect it!
Unlikely Plant Companions: Nature doesn’t follow our rules – and that’s what makes it so charming. Sometimes, you’ll find a fern nestled comfortably inside the root system of a tree, or a rogue moss patch thriving on a mailbox post. No one asked for this plant party, but the world of flora is showing us just how much fun it can have when it does its own thing.

These are just a handful of the hilarious, heartwarming, and awe-inspiring surprises that await when you spend time outside – whether you’re in your backyard or trekking through one of Saskatoon’s vibrant parks. The City Nature Challenge isn’t just about the science; it’s about the joy of discovering what’s around us. Every leaf, every chirp, and every twitch of an animal is an invitation to pause, observe, and enjoy.

Don’t forget – this event is more than just a competition. It’s a worldwide effort to bring us closer to the biodiversity right under our noses, and to celebrate the creatures that we might overlook in our everyday lives. Download the iNaturalist app, take a moment to observe the world around you, and get involved in this citizen science adventure. Whether you’re just getting started or already deep into recording, remember: Every observation counts!

So, what are you waiting for? There’s still time to make one last observation (or four) and share it with the global iNaturalist community. Whether it’s a flower, an insect, or an unknown little critter, take a photo, upload it, and let your findings contribute to the beautiful, often hilarious tapestry of life. Who knows? Maybe your observation after it is identified, will be the next viral sensation in the iNaturalist world!

As we wrap up this year’s City Nature Challenge YXE, remember to keep the spirit of exploration alive. And remember, you can use iNaturalist all y ear long! There’s no better time to appreciate the wonders of nature than now. Whether you’re on a nature hike or just enjoying a quiet moment outdoors, keep your eyes wide open – because the world is a lot more fascinating than you might realize.

Let the laughs, the discoveries, and the adventure continue! 🌿🌸🐦

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there is one more evening free event!

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Don’t Let the City Nature Challenge End Without You: Get Out, Observe, and Have Fun!

Today is Sunday, April 27 – the third day of the City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE) in Saskatoon! Don’t despair just yet, though; there’s still time to get involved in the fun. The great news? You don’t need to be an expert in nature or even know the difference between a squirrel and a chipmunk (we’ve all been there). All you need is your curiosity, your smartphone, and the iNaturalist app, which is your perfect companion for this fantastic outdoor adventure!

The City Nature Challenge is in full swing, and there’s no better way to spend the final day of Easter break (April 19–April 27) than with a nature hike in your own neighborhood. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned nature observer, the CNC is for everyone. And, if you’re looking for one last outdoor event to close out your weekend, the last scheduled event for today awaits you! But even if you can’t make it, it’s still the perfect day to get outside, take a walk, and discover the quirky, hilarious, and downright delightful surprises nature has to offer.

So, what should you keep an eye out for? Let me take you through a list of some of the wackiest, most amusing iNaturalist nature hike ideas that will add some serious fun to your outdoor adventure. These are just a few of the things you might come across as you stroll through the wonders of our local ecosystems:

1. The Most Unlikely Places to Find Wildlife:
You’ll be amazed at where critters can show up – a frog in a tree stump, a bird hiding in a bush, or even a snail taking a nap under a park bench. Nature doesn’t play by the rules!

2. Bizarre Plant Behavior:
Plants can be downright hilarious when you stop to watch them! Ever caught a sunflower turning its head to follow the sun like it’s checking in on an old friend? Or seen a plant that looks like it’s dancing in the breeze? That’s nature showing off its quirkiest side.

3. The Microbe Chronicles:
Okay, so you might not see these tiny creatures with your naked eye, but don’t let that stop you! They are all around you, living in the dirt, on tree trunks, and in the water. With a little imagination, the world of microbes is nothing short of magical.

4. Wild Things Found in the Oddest Places:
Maybe you’ll spot a bird perched on top of a fence post or a raccoon peeking out of an abandoned building. These are the creatures that make you think, “How did you even get there?” Nature knows no boundaries when it comes to location.

Are these not the most entertaining, unexpected, and inspiring observations you can make? The City Nature Challenge encourages you to look at the world through fresh eyes. Every rock, every leaf, and every inch of your environment holds potential for discovery and laughter.

Remember, the purpose of the CNC isn’t just to observe – it’s also to contribute to a global project that connects people to nature, to each other, and to science. By downloading the iNaturalist app, you become part of a worldwide community dedicated to documenting biodiversity. Plus, it’s a great way to keep track of all those funny moments that happen during your outdoor explorations.

While students are wrapping up their Easter Break (a glorious 9-day stretch of nature-filled fun from April 19 to April 27), the City Nature Challenge presents an incredible opportunity for all of us to connect with the great outdoors, discover wild organisms, and take part in citizen science. Whether you’re participating in one of today’s events or just taking a casual hike, your observations can contribute valuable data to the global effort to track biodiversity.

But wait, there’s more!

Let’s not forget that 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the City Nature Challenge AND the 55th birthday of Earth Month. That’s two monumental reasons to get involved and show the planet some love while having a great time! The spirit of these celebrations is all about embracing the unexpected, celebrating the joy of discovery, and marveling at the oddities and wonders nature has to offer.

It’s a race against time, but there’s no need to rush – you can upload your observations to iNaturalist until May 4, 2025. So, if you’re out for one last nature walk or observing wildlife in your backyard, just snap your photos and start identifying those species. If you’re unsure about what you’ve spotted, no worries! iNaturalist’s AI-powered identification tool will give you suggestions, and the iNaturalist community will help refine your observations.

Not only will you be part of an amazing global movement, but you might also discover some hilarious and heartwarming stories about the organisms you encounter. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing a chipmunk nibble on an acorn or a ladybug take a leisurely stroll across a leaf.

So, why not make the most of today and dive into one last adventure before the weekend ends? Whether you’re joining a City Nature Challenge event or simply venturing out on your own, there’s always something new to learn and laugh about in the great outdoors.

Download the iNaturalist app, open your eyes to the world around you, and let the fun begin!

Happy observing, and see you out there!

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there are still free events to attend – Sunday afternoon, and Monday evening!

_{Photo by Matthias Cooper on Pexels.com}

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Get Ready for a Hilarious and Heartwarming Nature Adventure

Get Ready for a Hilarious and Heartwarming Nature Adventure with iNaturalist and the City Nature Challenge!

Here’s a sneak peek of some of the funniest and most entertaining nature observations you might encounter while participating in the City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE). These are just a few ideas to get you excited for the fun and unexpected moments that await you in nature:

Quirky Nature Facts: Did you know that a group of porcupines is called a “prickle”? It’s true! And so is the fact that some plants can “communicate” with each other when under threat by releasing chemicals. Nature has some seriously funny and bizarre secrets up its sleeve.
Funny Animal Tracks: Ever wonder what it would look like if a deer tried to moonwalk? (a great place for deer tracks is the afforestation areas of Saskatoon) Check out the hilarious tracks they leave behind, or the mysterious prints of creatures that seem to defy the laws of physics.
Unusual Animal Homes: From birds who make their nests in shoes to ants building homes in the most unassuming places, you’ll be surprised at what nature considers “real estate.”
Mysterious Creatures in Unexpected Places: Have you ever spotted a frog in a tree, a lizard lounging on a mailbox, or a mouse living in a garden gnome? Nature’s got a knack for surprising you with its eccentric choices of habitat.
The Fast and the Furious (Insects): Those dragonflies zooming around like they’re in a race are nature’s tiny speedsters. Who knew that bugs could give Formula 1 cars a run for their money?
Cutest Animal Faces in Nature: Some animals just have faces that will melt your heart—baby bunnies, rabbits, and even certain frogs seem to have been made to look downright adorable!
Organisms That Don’t Make Sense: The world of fungi and plants is full of creatures that seem to have no business existing—like mushrooms that look like brains or flowers that appear to be wearing little hats.
Backyard Bug Detectives: Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes and investigate the oddities of the insect world. Watch ants in action or see how bees gather nectar from flowers as if they’re working on a top-secret mission.
High-Style Animals: Ever catch a squirrel with an attitude, or a bird perched so proudly that you can’t help but admire its confidence? Nature has its own fashionistas.
Unexpected Plant-Human Relationships: Have you ever noticed how some plants seem to “reach” for your hand when you walk by? Nature definitely has a way of playing games with your imagination.
Outrageously Old Trees: There’s something awe-inspiring (and a little funny) about seeing a tree so ancient it has probably witnessed history firsthand. Imagine if they could talk!
Wild Creatures from Your Wildest Dreams: Ever see something so strange that you question whether it belongs in a fantasy novel? You may just stumble upon a creature you’ve never seen before—like a bug that looks like it walked straight out of a sci-fi film.
Crazy Creatures That Don’t Realize They’re Crazy: Ever seen a bird try to sing to its reflection at the wetlands or a squirrel trying to balance an entire acorn collection in one paw? Nature’s got some seriously quirky performers.
A Garden of Goofy Plants: Ever seen a plant that looks like it’s trying to do a dance move? Or perhaps a tree that seems to be leaning just a little too dramatically to the left? Mother Nature sure knows how to get creative.
Backyard Nature Observations That Made Us Laugh: Whether it’s a lopsided flower or a mole digging a hole in your garden just to pop out and look confused, your backyard can be a source of endless entertainment.
The Offbeat Adventures of Backyard Birds: Who knew that birds could be so silly? From pigeons trying to strut like peacocks to robins making impromptu dance moves, there’s always something going on when you pay attention to the feathered creatures around you.
Nature’s Inexplicable Wonders: Have you ever wondered how the heck a plant grows through the cracks in a sidewalk? Or why certain animals seem to “arrive” in places where they definitely shouldn’t be? Nature is full of things that make us laugh, scratch our heads, and wonder.
The Best Animal Bloopers: Who hasn’t seen a bird trip over its own feet or a frog leap into the wrong pond? Nature’s blunders can be hilarious, especially when you capture them on camera.
What in the World Is That? Sometimes you’ll spot a creature so bizarre, so otherworldly, that you just have to stop and wonder: Is that a real thing? Nature is full of surprises.
Weirdest Backyard Critters: From overly enthusiastic grasshoppers to earthworms with curious personalities, your backyard is a treasure trove of strange and lovable critters.

Ready for more? There’s so much more to discover—Prankster Pollinators, Goofy Invertebrates, and The Eccentric Nature of Nature are just the beginning of your adventure.

Join the Fun with iNaturalist

Now that you’ve got a taste of all the quirky and funny things nature has to offer, it’s time to grab your phone, head outside, and let the fun begin! Download the iNaturalist app today and get involved in the City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE), a global event happening locally April 25–28, 2025. It’s a chance for you to make nature discoveries, connect with other nature lovers, and even contribute to important environmental research.

The CNC is all about discovering the wild creatures and plants in your neighborhood, recording your observations, and competing with other cities to see who can document the most species. And the best part? You’ll be learning about biodiversity, sharing the joy of nature with your community, and, of course, finding moments that will make you laugh out loud.

How to Participate in the City Nature Challenge

Download the iNaturalist App – Available on both Apple and Android devices, iNaturalist lets you take pictures of wildlife, share your observations, and contribute to citizen science. You’ll even get ID suggestions from the app’s AI, making it easier than ever to identify what you find.
Observe & Record (April 25–28, 2025) – Head outdoors and start documenting the wildlife you encounter. Whether you’re in the park, at the beach, or in your own backyard, every observation counts!
Help Identify Species (April 29–May 4, 2025) – After the observation phase, it’s time to help identify the species others have found. If you have expertise, or, even if you wish to sort by plants and animals, please contribute your knowledge to make the project even more valuable.
Have Fun! – The goal is simple: Connect with nature, connect with your community, and most importantly—have fun! Whether you’re out with friends, family, or solo, there’s always something new to learn, laugh at, and celebrate in nature. And….what’s more, you can use iNaturalist all year long!

Wrapping It Up: Let the Adventure Begin

So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re an experienced nature explorer or just someone who loves a good laugh, iNaturalist is the app for you. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to get outside, have fun, and join in on the worldwide celebration of nature during the City Nature Challenge 2025.

Happy hiking—and don’t forget to capture the silly moments when they happen! 🌿🐦

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there are free events!

SDG 15 Life on Land — _{Photo by Hannah Nelson on Pexels.com}

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker

The Power of Observation: Reclaiming Our Connection to Nature

In today’s fast-paced urban environments, many residents find themselves “blind” to the nature that exists all around them. As cities continue to grow and modernize, our categories of thought and daily routines often fail to acknowledge the urban nature spaces that surround us. These green spaces, rich with biodiversity, often go unnoticed and invisible to those who live in cities. Our increasingly urbanized lifestyles can create a disconnect from the natural world, reducing our daily interactions with nature and, in turn, depriving us of its wide range of health benefits.

Bumblebee on dandelion — Red Osier Dogwood Cornus sericea flower

This disconnect is more than just an oversight; it’s a phenomenon known as “the extinction of experience.” Scholars have theorized that as we lose touch with nature, our awareness and appreciation for it fade, diminishing our collective desire to conserve it. Experiencing nature regularly, once the norm, has become the exception. For many, the city’s green spaces—whether they are parks, gardens, or even unkempt patches of land—become overlooked, contributing to the fading of our connection to the environment.

In particular, the phenomenon of “plant blindness” has emerged as a concept describing our lack of awareness or disregard for plants, especially those considered “weeds” in urban spaces. “Weeds”—often unwanted plants growing in neglected or urban spaces—are usually seen as a nuisance rather than a source of biodiversity. This term reflects the negative perceptions many people have about urban greenery, associating it with neglect, disorder, or even safety concerns. However, what is often dismissed as untidy or undesirable may actually be native species that play a crucial role in local ecosystems, some of which may even be species at risk with a dire need for conservation, and not weeds at all!

To truly foster participation in nature conservation and resource management, it is essential to shift the way we engage with and think about urban nature, including the “weeds” that we often overlook. By deconstructing our perceptions and understanding how nature is integrated into our daily lives, we can begin to reawaken a sense of connection and responsibility toward preserving the biodiversity that exists, often hidden in plain sight, within our cities.

From Blindness to Awareness: How the City Nature Challenge is Reviving Urban Nature

As we look to the future and consider the growing threats to biodiversity, one powerful way to reconnect with the natural world and actively participate in its conservation is through citizen science. Engaging with activities like the City Nature Challenge and participating in bioblitzes provides an essential opportunity for urban residents to rediscover the nature in their communities. These efforts, where ordinary people contribute to scientific observations, are more vital than ever, as they enable early detection and rapid response to emerging threats like invasive species.

One of the most accessible tools for engaging in this type of citizen science is the iNaturalist app, which allows anyone to document and share their observations of local flora and fauna. This simple act of observation provides invaluable data for scientists, conservationists, and city planners, allowing them to track biodiversity trends, monitor species at risk, and identify potential environmental threats before they become irreversible.

Through platforms like iNaturalist, each observation, whether it’s a rare plant or an elusive insect, contributes to a growing body of knowledge that can help shape conservation strategies. As the old adage goes, “You cannot protect what you don’t know.” The more we know about the species that call our cities home, the better equipped we will be to protect them.

By taking part in these activities, urban residents not only reconnect with nature but also contribute to a greater cause: preserving and protecting the species that are at risk of disappearing. Citizen science empowers us to be stewards of the environment, helping to preserve the intricate web of life that sustains our cities—and our planet—for generations to come. When we take the time to observe, share, and document the natural world around us, we begin to understand the delicate balance that exists within our urban ecosystems. In doing so, we become part of the solution, helping to safeguard biodiversity and secure a more sustainable future for all.

With heartfelt gratitude and appreciation, we are pleased to share that the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon is hosted by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc., with generous sponsorship from SaskPower and SaskTel. Thank you for your invaluable support in making this event possible!

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

There are four exciting events to choose from during the four day BioDiverCity Challenge! Sign up now

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Embracing Nature’s Gifts: Saskatoon’s YXE Green Infrastructure Strategy

Subtitle: A Tribute to World Nature Conservation Day July 28 and the City’s Commitment to Biodiversity

Introduction: In the heart of the bustling city of Saskatoon lies a remarkable testament to the power of nature conservation. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the City’s YXE Green Infrastructure Strategy, the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the Small Swale have emerged as sanctuaries of biodiversity, offering respite to both wildlife and city dwellers alike. On this World Nature Conservation Day, we celebrate the vision and dedication of Saskatoon in preserving and nurturing these precious naturalized spaces.

A Haven for Species at Risk: Within the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, a tapestry of life unfolds, embracing over 36 species at risk. Here, nature’s delicate balance is maintained, and the City’s commitment to protecting these vulnerable species shines through. Through the development of the first municipal naturalized area pilot master plan, highlighting the City of Saskatoon Strategic Goals of Environmental Leadership, and Quality of Life, Saskatoon has taken a monumental step towards safeguarding the diverse flora and fauna that call these spaces home.

Engaging the Community: The City of Saskatoon YXE Green Infrastructure Strategy would not be complete without the invaluable contribution of the community. Workshops, surveys, and public engagement sessions have played a pivotal role in shaping the master plan, ensuring that the voices and aspirations of the people resonate through every decision. Saskatoon’s citizens have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the present and future well-being of their city, recognizing the profound impact that these naturalized spaces have on both biodiversity and the health and well-being of citizens within this the urban landscape.

A Glimpse into the Future: As Saskatoon continues to grow and flourish, the YXE Green Infrastructure Strategy holds the potential to extend its reach further, embracing other greenspaces within the metropolitan area. The George Genereux Urban Regional Park, with its vast expanse of untouched beauty, awaits its turn to be enveloped in the protective embrace of the master plan. With projections estimating the city’s population to reach one million people by 2063, the importance of these biodiverse naturalized spaces cannot be understated.

Cultivating Biodiversity and Well-Being: Beyond their ecological significance, the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the Small Swale serve as havens for the human spirit. Stepping into these natural oases, city dwellers find solace, rejuvenation, and a profound connection with the rhythms of the earth. Amidst the vibrant greens and the songs of birds, the YXE Green Infrastructure Strategy fosters a harmonious coexistence between urban life and the natural world, promoting the well-being of both humans and wildlife.

Conclusion: As we commemorate World Nature Conservation Day July 28, let us take a moment to reflect on the vision and dedication of the City of Saskatoon. Through the YXE Green Infrastructure Strategy, they have laid the groundwork for a future where urban expansion coexists harmoniously with thriving biodiversity. The Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the Small Swale stand as living testaments to the city’s commitment to preserving nature’s gifts for generations to come. With each step forward, Saskatoon paves the way for other cities to embrace the power of green infrastructure and create a sustainable, resilient, and vibrant future.

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park
For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
For more information:
Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits
NEW P4G District Official Community Plan
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map
Pinterest richardstbarbeb
Blogger: FriendsAfforestation
Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Facebook: South West OLRA
Reddit: FriendsAfforestation
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Mix: friendsareas
YouTube
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.
United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration
Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities
“Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”
Richard St. Barbe Baker

Starting Tonight

BioDiverCity Challenge starting tonight at midnight, and continuing on for four days till the end of day on June 12!

Here is a listing of the cities involved in the 2022 Prairie BiodiverCity Challenges

The Prairie BioDiverCity Challenges are running concurrently with the 2022 Summer NRMBC: Alberta and British Columbia

In addition to these two divisions, there is additionally the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan which have set up provincial projects as well. So this means that you can actually use iNaturalist anywhere in the province and still be counted in. Here is a handy link to the Saskatoon and Area BioDiverCity Challenge

It will be interesting to see the results of a summer challenge as compared to the CNC in the early spring months. The Journal Pages on the iNaturalist Project Pages have hints and tips!

During Canada Environment Week

In love with Saskatoon and area’s incredible nature?

In love with the province’s ecosystems?

Download the free iNaturalist app

Find it

Snap it

Share it

What will you discover?

Thursday June 9 to Sunday June 12

BioDiverCity Challenge

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park
For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
For more information:
Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits
NEW P4G District Official Community Plan
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map
Pinterest richardstbarbeb
Blogger: FriendsAfforestation
Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Facebook: South West OLRA
Reddit: FriendsAfforestation
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Mix: friendsareas

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!

Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.

http://friendsareas.ca/

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

“Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”
Richard St. Barbe Baker

End of Day 3 CNCYXE2022

It is the end of May 1, the third day of the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge April 29 to May 2. Thanks to everyone who has added observations on iNaturalist! Come out on Monday May 2, and make a difference!

It was an interesting day to follow through on the Insect Workshop. So, when you take a peek into pond water of marshes like the Chappell Marsh at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, there are bugs in the water swimming around! Here is a Pond Life video of the Caddisfly larva which was found! And following up on the Fungi including Lichen Workshop, 60 different observations have taken place for Lichen and shelf fungi are being noted at this time of the year.

Stay tuned for the follow up identification party virtual zoom workshops so you can discuss your finds during the City Nature Challenge with specialists!

And, now just a bit of a word about our Saskatoon and Area Species at Risk which were found so far…By randomly taking pictures across Saskatoon and area, it is fantastic what was discovered!

Goldenrod Gall Fly
Eurosta solidaginis

Togwoteeus biceps

Green Ash
Fraxinus pennsylvanica

American White Pelican
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

Blackbottle
Protophormia terraenovae

Turkey Vulture
Cathartes aura

Louisiana Broomrape
Aphyllon ludovicianum

Prairie Violet
Viola pedatifida

Early Blue Violet
Viola palmata

So, now is the time to get involved

Observe April 29-May 2

Countdown has begun!

How many birds, bugs, feathers, lichen, plants, animals, etc can you find?

Are you coming?

Three easy steps

Find it

Snap it

Share it

Enjoy the outdoors whilst supporting vital conservation research by making observations April 29 to May

https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com/

friendsafforestation@gmail.com

City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area versus YQRCNC Regina and area in a mini SK challenge

Celebrate 50 years! Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional park were planted to trees in 1972, 50 years ago. Come out and say Happy Birthday!

Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

“Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”
Richard St. Barbe Baker

#CityNatureChallenge #iNaturalistCanada #Biodiversity Founded by @NHMLA and @CalAcademy Community Science hosted by #friendsdareas #NatureCanada #CityNatureChallenge #BioBlitz #CitSciMonth #CommunityScience #CitizenScience #UrbanNature #UrbanBiodiversity #NatureInTheCity #NatureIsEverywhere #NatureForEveryone #NatureNerd #cnc #outdoors #nature #conservation #photography #biodiversity #citizenscience #inaturalist #wildlife #plantlife #wanderlust #naturelovers #optoutside #instagood #picoftheday #volunteer #training #parks #optingoutside #CNCYXE #CNCYXE2022 #FriendsAreas #FriendsAfforestation #citizenscience #communityscience #EcologicalEmergency #naturelovers @sasktel #inaturalist #saskatchewanbirds #yxebirds #getoutdoors #naturephotography #wildlifephotography #citynaturechallenge2022 #yxe #thegreatoutdoors #citynaturechallenge2022 #citynaturechallenge #Canadacitynaturechallenge #citizenscience #Volunteering #nativeprairie #grasslands #wildlife #bees #pollinators #prairiepollinators #ExploreSask #NatureSask #wildlifewatcher #prairielife #sasklife #nativeprairie #speciesatrisk #conservation #KeepSaskWild #socialdistance #citizenscience #wildlifephotography #beesknees #LeavetheLeaves #NoMowMay #nature4all #FriendsAreas #FriendsAfforestation @FriendsAreas #saskatoon #saskatooning

End of Day 2 Results.

So, the City Nature Challenge has come halfway, day 2 of 4 days.

What a ride it has been! Let’s recap again about some highlights.

So when you want to check out how Saskatoon and area is faring there are two counters. One is on iNaturalist here. The other scoreboard is here, as the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge signed up to BioSmart.

What is the difference? Well BioSmart shows the addition of both iNaturalist and eBird observations! In two days this is how Saskatoon and area has fared on BioSmart;

598
Observations

419
Identifications

217
Species

38
People

So that is pretty sweet! Hats off to everyone.

The ever beautiful Crocus Pulsatilla nuttalliana has been recorded today as an observation!

There has been an observation of a “Puccinia monoica (Rust Fungus) that infects prairie plants in early spring, usually species of Rock Cress (Boechera/Arabis)” (the description given by Glen Lee)

There are no more white rabbit sightings, only brown White-tailed Jackrabbits *whew*.

Some very beautiful Wintergreens are making a carpet of green which is ever wonderful to see.

If you have never seen a wondrous Spring Avens, well they are in bud now, so that is pretty cool!

But besides saying what is recorded, we should mention what is NOT recorded. There are NO pelican sightings recorded yet! And yet we know they arrived April 21! NO beaver nor muskrat sightings. So now the race is on, to see who can get the first pelican, beaver and muskrat sighting! Can you do it? Check on eBird Saskatoon for end of April usual bird sightings, and then it will be discovered what there may be to look for still 😉

Out of all the potential birds of prey around and about Saskatoon which may be sighted such as hawks, owls, vultures, only two have been registered to date = a Turkey Vulture, and a Merlin.

You know what is a rather unique and interesting happenstance of the City Nature Challenge? iNat user svetlana-bogdanovich out of Ukraine has made the most observations! So in the middle of war-torn Ukraine, svetlana has made 505 observations in 2 days! That is pretty incredible.

User eduardoramirez-anapri from Madrid Spain has made 444 observations in the first 2 days.

American Pelican Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, Saskatoon, SK, CA — Pelican Preening

Celebrate 50 years! Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional park were planted to trees in 1972, 50 years ago. Come out and say Happy Birthday!

Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.

Check it out! Saskatoon City Nature Challenge https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2022-saskatoon-sk

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

“Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”
Richard St. Barbe Baker

CNCYXE2022 has started!

Well the City Nature Challenge has started! We have had some amazing finds so far. A buteo has been spotted, and a thirteen lined ground squirrel midden, the trembling aspen have their beautiful flowers out. If you stir up the dry leaves on the ground, you might see a bug or two, if you are fast with the iNaturalist camera you might catch a photo or two. Don’t forget to photograph pine cones, seeds, and feathers! It is turning into a beautiful day weather wise also. The City Nature Challenge around the world, had quite a few cities begin before us because of the time zone difference.

We will do what we can here and have a lot of fun as Saskatchewan and Saskatoon wakes up. Looking and observing nature is a great thing to do for Earth Month!

YouTube Video

Canada City Nature Challenge with all the cities across Canada

World Wide City Nature Challenge with all global cities participating.

😃🍁🍄🥀🌼🌞🌷🌾🎋🌳🌲🐾🐀🐿🐁🐇🐇🕷🐛🦋🐞🐜🐌🐛🕷🦗🐢🐍🦇🐦🦉🦅🦆🐥🐣🐦🦇🐌🦋🦋🦄

Help show the world what Saskatoon’s biodiversity looks like – and sounds like—grab your smartphone, the free @inaturalistorg app, & join this year’s #CityNatureChallenge from April 29–May 2! Great for all ages; find details at FriendsAreas.ca #CNCYXE

Celebrate 50 years! Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional park were planted to trees in 1972, 50 years ago. Come out and say Happy Birthday!

Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.