wellness – Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life.

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 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 – 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

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

BlueSky Social

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Support via Zeffy

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

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 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

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

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

BlueSky Social

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Support via Zeffy

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

🌟 Make a Big Impact with Just $1 This Holiday Season! 🌟

Just $1 can show your support this holiday season – PayPal makes it easy. Set Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. as your favourite charity.

We appreciate your support all year long –
and now PayPal is making it easy for you to
think of us this holiday season.
Set us as your favourite charity, and every
time you make an online purchase with
PayPal, you’ll have the opportunity to
donate $1 to our cause. It’s an easy
and convenient way to have a big impact.
Visit our profile page on PayPal to set us as
your favourite charity. [CHARITY PROFILE
PAGE URL paypal.com/ca/fundraiser/charity/3956075].
Thanks for your support!

Set it, click it, donate it – make a lasting impact with just $1

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

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

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

BlueSky Social

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Support via Zeffy

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

Week One ParticipACTION Community Challenge

Welcome everyone to the exhilarating kickoff of the Afforestation Area ParticipACTION Community Challenge! As we delve into this month-long extravaganza, we are thrilled to present the first week array of events designed to invigorate both mind and body while fostering a deep connection with nature.

Celebrate National Health and Fitness Day on June 1 by joining the ParticipACTION Community Challenge! Saturday, June 1 is National Health and Fitness Day in Canada, and the kick-off of the ParticipACTION Community Challenge presented by Novo Nordisk. Running from June 1 to 30, the challenge encourages everyone in Canada to get active throughout June, ultimately recognizing Canada’s Most Active Community and awarding it $100,000 to
support local physical activity and sport initiatives. There will also be a prize for the most active community in each province and territory, and ParticipACTION will recognize and award organizations that are championing the challenge in their communities. To help remove barriers to people getting active, we
encourage you to offer active opportunities on June 1 through open houses, free programming and more! Better yet, register your June initiative(s) on the
ParticipACTION website and help your community win! Thank you for support from ParticipACTION and @TDParksPeople!

Starting off with a burst of energy on National Health and Fitness Day, join us on Saturday, June 1st, at RSBBAA from 14:00 to 16:00 for the “Invigorating Inaugural ParticipACTION Community Challenge Event!” Let’s embrace the spirit of wellness together.

On Sunday, June 2nd, immerse yourself in the splendor of the great outdoors as we celebrate “Discover the Great Outdoors: A Celebration of Triumph and Unity” at GGURP from 14:00 to 16:00. It’s a day of exploration and camaraderie you won’t want to miss.

Monday, June 3rd, marks World Bicycle Day, and we’re gearing up for “Pedal Palooza” at RSBBAA from 19:00 to 21:00. Bring your bike, get ready to pedal your way to fitness and fun!

Join us on Tuesday, June 4th, at GGURP from 19:00 to 21:00 for “Wilderness Workout,” a thrilling group stretching and fitness session that promises to elevate your spirits and strengthen your body.

As we honor World Environment Day on Wednesday, June 5th, head over to RSBBAA from 19:00 to 21:00 for “Every Species Counts – Climate Action.” Engage with representatives from the Climate Hub as we delve into discussions on climate action and biodiversity conservation.

Thursday, June 6th, brings “Paws for Empathy” to RSBBAA from 19:00 to 21:00, a delightful dog-walking event Special Guest Speaker is arranged where you can learn more about service dogs, therapy dogs, and the profound bond between humans and canines.

On Friday, June 7th, embrace the thrill of running on Global Running Day with “Feel The Thrill” at RSBBAA from 19:00 to 21:00. Lace up your running shoes and hit the trails with us!

Saturday, June 8th, celebrates Gay and Lesbian Pride Month with “Pride in the Forest – Artistic Expressions” at RSBBAA from 14:00 to 16:00. Explore the natural diversity of 2SLGBTQQIA+ identities in the animal kingdom and beyond.

Closing out the week, Bike Week takes center stage from June 8th to June 16th, culminating in “Wheeling Wellness” on Sunday, June 9th, at RSBBAA from 14:00 to 16:00. Let’s ride towards better health and environmental stewardship together.

With events spanning from health and fitness to environmental awareness and community engagement, the Afforestation Area ParticipACTION Community Challenge promises an unforgettable week of connection, celebration, and growth. Join us as we embark on this inspiring journey towards a healthier, happier future!

Meet Councillor David Kirton During Arbor Week in May! Two exciting tree events coming your way!