Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. George Genereux Urban Regional Park. Humboldt Broncos Memorial Forest. Come to Nature. Come to Life. Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestationk Areas Inc. friendsareas.ca
Every Species Counts: A World Environment Day Celebration at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Today may be a great day for ducks, and wildlife, and a time for the events to take place when the woodland trails are not flooded. So it is with heavy hearts that the World Environment Day celebration is cancelled for tonight, June 5. That being said, read on to find out how to celebrate World Environment Day!
World Environment Day celebration of nature, conservation, and the intrinsic value of every species! As we mark World Environment Day, let’s honor our planet and reaffirm our commitment to its protection.
Why Every Species Counts
In the vast tapestry of life, every species has a vital role to play. From the majestic trees that tower above us to the tiniest insects hidden beneath the forest floor, each organism contributes to the intricate balance of ecosystems worldwide. World Environment Day offers us the opportunity to recognize and celebrate this biodiversity, reminding us that the health of our planet depends on the wellbeing of every species. Check out the Wildlife and Biodiversity of the afforestation areas! These pamphlets and informational pdf’s can be viewed online or downloaded
A Day of Discovery
World Environment Day is one filled with exploration and enlightenment. We need our spring rains after 13 years of drought, and please come out as often as you can for the June walks through the Afforestation Area, where you can marvel at the wonders of nature and learn about local flora and fauna. For World Environment Day today, brochures and pamphlets insights into the importance of conservation efforts and the urgent need to protect endangered species. Engaging activities for all ages throughout the PartipACTION Community Challenge will inspire curiosity and foster a deeper connection to the natural world.
Climate Action in Focus
As we revel in the beauty of our surroundings, let’s also reflect on the pressing environmental challenges we face. Climate change threatens ecosystems and species around the globe, demanding urgent action and innovative solutions. Our event will spotlight nature-based solutions to climate change, showcasing the power of wetlands, forests, and trees to mitigate its impacts. Through informative materials (attached), we’ll explore how individuals, communities, businesses, and governments can contribute to a sustainable future for all.
The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Join the Movement
Together, we can make a difference. Let’s stand in solidarity on World Environment Day, taking action for climate change, united in our commitment to safeguarding our planet and its precious biodiversity. Whether you’re a seasoned environmental advocate or just beginning your journey, there’s a place for you in this collective effort. Join us for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park and be part of a global movement to protect and preserve our Earth for generations to come.
As Chief Seattle wisely said, “The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth.” Let’s heed these words and come together to honor and protect our shared home. World Environment Day is a reminder that every species counts, and every action we take matters. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate, learn, and take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future. See you at the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or George Genereux Urban Regional Park during the June ParticipACTION Community Challenge– where the beauty of nature awaits, and the promise of a better world beckons.
Help Saskatoon be crowned Canada’s Most Active Community and win $100,000 to support local sport andphysical activity initiatives! Even though today is raining, please sign up for the ParticipACTION Community Challenge! Doing stairs, walking at work, exercising at home with any of the resources offered by the ParticipACTION Community Challenge are amazing. Talk to the groups you belong to and encourage them to take part, and register their events! Gardening, walking to the store, cycling in any of the June events all help Saskatoon be crowned Canada’s Most Active Community and win $100,000 to support local sport andphysical activity initiatives!
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
The week begins with a grounding circle to start things off in a good way, acknowledging the significance of traditional Indigenous practices and values. Throughout the week, there are various events and activities to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of Indigenous individuals within the university community.
One of the highlights of IAW is the Indigenous Student Achievement Awards Ceremony, which takes place on Wednesday, March 6, at Marquis Hall. The awards honor Indigenous students for their academic achievement, community engagement, leadership, research, and resiliency. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of these students and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
Additionally, there are opportunities for learning and growth during IAW. For example, individuals can sign up for the 2024 Level 1 Indigenous Awareness Training: The History of Indigenous Peoples in Saskatchewan, which will take place in Regina on April 3. This training provides valuable insights into the history and culture of Indigenous peoples in Saskatchewan, promoting understanding and reconciliation.
IAW is an important opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Indigenous individuals within the university community. It’s a chance to honor their contributions, promote understanding, and inspire future generations to strive for excellence.
Red Osier Dogwood Cornus sericea. Part of Kinnikinnick herbal smoking mixtureRed Osier Dogwood Cornus sericea. Part of Kinnikinnick herbal smoking mixture
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
In 2024, a remarkable opportunity emerged, promising to amplify the impact of every donation dedicated to sustainability. “Make It Monthly 2024” was launched, a bonus donation program where CanadaHelps pledged to contribute an additional $20 for each new monthly donation of $20 or more. * This initiative was designed to encourage continuous support, ensuring charities could pursue their missions with stability and long-term planning. Among the participating organizations is the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, a non-profit environmental charity dedicated to promoting environmental conservation, education, and community engagement in the Saskatoon region.
For the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, this opportunity was particularly vital. With their ongoing campaigns, they aimed to create a sustainable future while fostering community well-being. The “A Vision for a Sustainable Future GPS-PFG” initiative focused on the development, growth and vitality of a GPS Prairie Forest Guide (PFG), an interpretive app showcasing the rich biodiversity and heritage of the local afforestation areas. This app was poised to be a transformative tool, connecting users with nature, Indigenous knowledge, and sustainable practices.
Amplify Your Impact
Another campaign, the “Saskatoon City Nature Challenge CNCYXE2024,” aimed to involve the community in documenting local biodiversity through citizen science. This challenge encouraged people to explore their natural surroundings, contributing to a comprehensive database of local flora and fauna.
Uniting for Sustainability
Finally, the “A forest of activity, a canopy of health, ParticipACTION Community Challenge” is a call to action for the community to engage in physical activity and outdoor recreation. Through this initiative, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas sought to promote health, wellness, and a deeper connection with nature.
The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas and local dog-sled kennels invite you to Frozen Trails and Wagging Tails: Dog Sledding Delight at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Glide through winter landscapes and support nature preservation in Saskatoon. Join us in creating unforgettable memories and celebrating nature’s splendor at WinterCity YXE. Your support makes this adventure possible. 🐾
Sustain the Future
With each donation and the bonus support from CanadaHelps, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas could continue their vital work. They could further their commitment to environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and community engagement, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all. “Make It Monthly 2024“* and double the impact of your support!
A Sustainable Future Starts with You
Red Osier Dogwood Cornus sericea flowerDog Sledding Event Saturday March 30, 2024 at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area The CNC ‘City Nature Challenge,’ CNCYXE2023 Natoona pimatshihk dans la vil in the Michif Language
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
As the world faces the devastating effects of climate change, it is increasingly important for individuals to take action and do their part to mitigate these impacts. One of the best ways to do this is by supporting afforestation areas, which are nature-based solutions that can help restore our environment and address climate change. In this blog post, we’ll explore how afforestation areas can help fight climate change, as well as provide activities you can do to support climate action. To make an even bigger impact, we encourage readers to join the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas and take the pledge to support climate action – together we can make a difference in protecting our planet!
Impact of climate change
Climate change is a global phenomenon that has had an immense impact on our planet. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, melting polar icecaps, species loss, and human health have all been affected by climate change. If left unchecked, these effects can lead to even further destruction of the environment and human lives.
The rising global temperature has caused an increase in floods, droughts and storms across the globe. These extreme weather events are more destructive than ever before due to their increased intensity and frequency. This has resulted in widespread destruction of property and the displacement of millions of people from their homes.
The melting of polar icecaps has caused rising sea levels which have threatened coastal cities around the world as well as increased acidity levels in our oceans. This is having a devastating effect on marine life with many species being unable to survive in such acidic environments. It also threatens our own food security as fish stocks are depleted.
Species loss due to destroyed habitats is another consequence of climate change which cannot be ignored. Habitats are being destroyed by changing temperatures and disrupted food chains resulting in species becoming extinct or endangered at alarming rates. This is having a ripple effect throughout ecosystems leading to further destruction if not addressed soon enough.
Finally, human health is being impacted by climate change in numerous ways including heat waves which can lead to illnesses such as heat exhaustion or stroke, heart attacks or even death in extreme cases. Additionally air pollution caused by burning fossil fuels contributes to respiratory diseases like asthma making it difficult for many people to breathe properly on hot days when air quality is poor.
Afforestation areas are one way we can combat some of these effects caused by climate change while restoring nature back into balance again. By planting and then protecting trees we can reduce carbon emissions, help slow down extreme weather events such as floods or droughts, improve air quality and provide habitats for wildlife so they can continue living within their ecosystems without fear of extinction or endangerment due to habitat destruction!
Importance of afforestation areas
Afforestation areas are nature-based solutions that can help mitigate climate change. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their trees, soil, and other vegetation, helping to reduce air pollution and conserve water. Afforestation areas can also provide habitats for wildlife, allowing animals to safely thrive in a natural environment.
The Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park in Saskatoon, Canada are two examples of afforestation areas that offer locals the chance to experience nature and learn about the importance of afforestation areas for climate action. This area was established in 1960 by the City of Saskatoon with the goal of creating a man-made forest on the prairies as a concept to preserving green space in urban environments. The park is home to many species of plants and animals, including birds such as Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, White Pelicans and Sandhill Cranes. It also serves as an educational resource for students who visit the park on field trips or participate in workshops where they can learn about environmental conservation topics like sustainable agriculture, energy efficiency and wildlife management programs.
Afforestation is one way individuals can take action to support climate action initiatives around the globe. We all have a civic duty to protect our planet from further damage caused by climate change – whether through individual efforts or collective efforts like joining an organization such as Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas or taking part in local activities such as tree planting events or beach cleanups. By taking action together we can make a difference in protecting our planet’s future health against further degradation caused by global warming and other environmental issues that threaten its inhabitants now more than ever before.
Take the pledge today to support climate action initiatives worldwide! Join Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas today – together we can make a difference!
How to support afforestation areas
For those looking to do their part in preserving our planet, getting involved in afforestation projects is an excellent place to start. Joining a local group that advocates for the protection and preservation of afforestation areas can have numerous benefits, including learning more about conservation efforts and participating in community events. Additionally, many organizations offer volunteer opportunities which contribute to maintaining these vital ecosystems.
Two key afforestation areas located in Saskatoon are the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. The former was planted to trees fifty years ago and covers over 326 acres while the latter spans over 148 acres with trails, and benches for visitors to enjoy.
It’s also possible to support afforestation projects through donations or by volunteering your time. For instance, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas accepts contributions that go towards restoring forests as well as protecting habitats for endangered species throughout the afforestation areas. Similarly, local organizations such as Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas often need volunteers for tasks such as forest maintenance or tree protections at these invaluable locations.
Taking part in activities such as these helps reduce carbon emissions while creating a more sustainable planet for future generations – something we all have a responsibility to do! If you’re interested in contributing positively towards our environment, why not join your local group, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas , today or donate your time or money? With collective effort we can make a real difference!
20 activities to take action on climate change
Climate action is everyone’s responsibility, and there are many actions that individuals can take to support initiatives such as afforestation areas. Here are 20 activities that you can do to help combat climate change and protect our planet:
1. Support local initiatives: Look for ways to support the local efforts of organizations, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, working on documenting biodiversity in the afforestation projects in your area. You can donate money, volunteer time, or speak out in support of their initiatives.
2. Educate yourself and others: Read up on the latest research related to afforestation areas and share what you learn with family, friends, and colleagues.
3. Attend events: Participate in events such as biodiversity count days or clean-up efforts at your local parks or nature reserves – these activities will help protect existing trees while also creating new habitats for wildlife.
4. Plant a tree: Plant a tree in your garden or yard! This will help reduce carbon emissions from the atmosphere while providing oxygen for us all to breathe.
5. Go vegetarian/vegan: Make more sustainable dietary choices by eating less meat and dairy products – this will reduce methane emissions which are major contributors to global warming. “I am convinced that the vegan way of life is the only sane way of life, and realising that the basic cause of tension is growing populations and diminishing food sources, for the past ten years I have devoted much of my time to studying the question of food production and the problems of large scale land reclamation by tree planting.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker
6. Choose eco-friendly transportation: Whenever possible, opt for public transport instead of driving a car – this reduces carbon dioxide emissions from vehicles which contribute to climate change.
7. Use energy efficient appliances: Upgrade your home appliances with energy efficient models – this helps reduce electricity consumption which saves both money and energy!
8. Reuse materials whenever possible: Reduce waste by reusing materials such as glass jars, cardboard boxes, plastic bags etc., rather than throwing them away after use – this helps conserve natural resources while reducing landfill waste which contributes to global warming when it decomposes anaerobically (without oxygen).
9. Shop consciously and responsibly sourced goods: Buy products made of renewable materials such as hemp or bamboo instead of plastics – this reduces the amount of non-biodegradable waste generated by consumer goods production processes which contribute to climate change when they’re not properly disposed of or recycled correctly.
10 Create social media campaigns: Use social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter or Facebook to spread awareness about the actions of Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas- this encourages people around you to join forces against climate change!
11 Join an environmental organization: Get involved with an organization that works towards protecting our environment – The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas is one organization dedicated solely towards preserving our planet through conservation efforts.
12 Donate funds: Donate funds regularly or one time donations towards The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas devoted towards protecting our planet – even small contributions can make a big difference!
13 Sign petitions: Sign online petitions calling attention to issues regarding environmental protection – these petitions bring attention from governments and corporations who hold power over policy decisions that affect us all.
14 Be mindful about water usage: Conserve water by using low flow faucets and showerheads, installing rainwater harvesting systems, repairing leaky pipes, taking shorter showers, avoiding hosing down sidewalks etc. All these activities together can significantly reduce water wastage which has devastating effects on our environment if unchecked.
15 Advocate for renewable energy sources: Speak up about needing greener alternatives such as solar panels, wind vortex, geothermal energy etc. These technologies are emerging rapidly but need more government funding in order for them to truly scale up their implementation across countries worldwide.
16 Recycle materials whenever possible: Separate recyclable items from non-recyclables before disposing them off – recycling conserves natural resources while preventing pollution caused during manufacturing processes from new raw materials.
17 Avoid single use items: Invest in cleaner alternatives for everyday items like straws, utensils, grocery bags, laundry detergent bottles etc. This helps cut down on plastic wastage which harms wildlife when it isn’t disposed off properly
18 Support businesses promoting sustainability: Patronize businesses that act sustainably throughout their production processes – buy locally grown produce whenever possible; look into companies whose packaging strategies promote recyclability; buy certified organic products; shop secondhand clothes instead of buying new ones etc.
19 Vote for candidates advocating for green policies: Make sure your representatives are those who prioritize green policies over short term economic gains – vote responsibly!
20 Take part in marches protesting against climate inaction: Show solidarity with protesters around the world fighting against governments and corporations who refuse to take action on climate change – marches raise awareness about the urgency of taking action now!
Take the pledge to support climate action
Taking action to combat climate change is the utmost responsibility of every citizen. We must all work together to protect our planet and ensure a better future for the generations to come. One way to do this is by taking the pledge to support climate action and joining the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.
The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas are an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving areas such as Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park, and advocate for more afforestation areas in Saskatoon. By taking their pledge, individuals can help make a difference in the fight against global warming and take part in initiatives that reduce carbon emissions.
Joining this group is just one way to support climate action initiatives worldwide. Readers are encouraged to spread awareness about climate change actions on social media, organize volunteer activities at local afforestation areas, donate money or time towards environmental organizations, or sign petitions calling on governments for more funding and support for afforestation projects.
By taking part in these activities we can all do our part in protecting our planet from further damage caused by climate change. Each individual’s contribution counts- whether it’s participating in marches protesting against environmental inaction or simply voting for candidates advocating green policies- every effort counts towards making a difference in our world today!
Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World
On this International Youth Day, we rise, With a theme of Green Skills, let’s harmonize. Towards a sustainable world, our vision clear, Youth, the architects of change, drawing near.
In the afforestation areas, our canvas wide, Activities that empower, as youth take stride. Life on Land, Life underwater, they explore, Climate Action, Sustainable Cities, hearts soar.
Green Skills for Youth, a path to tread, Ensure healthy lives, well-being widespread. Partnerships for the goals, united we stand, Creating a sustainable world, hand in hand.
Education and awareness, a vibrant stream, For youth, the future, a powerful dream. Richard St. Barbe Baker, George Genereux’s grace, Unlocking secrets, Saskatoon’s Hidden Gems embrace.
Fostering respect, kindling pride in each soul, The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas play a role. Community outreach, environmental education’s might, From the young to the wise, a lifelong light.
In the end, we conserve what we love*, Understanding born from teachings above. Preserved in perpetuity, council’s decree, The Saskatoon afforestation areas, a legacy.
Witaskêwin’s spirit, together we dwell, A long-term strategy, in harmony we excel. Geological wonders, history’s embrace, Nature’s heritage, woven with grace.
Science and conservation, learning’s embrace, Hands-on, sustainability’s embrace. Advocate for inclusivity, equality’s call, Breaking down barriers, one and all.
Stories of the Old Bone Trail, we share, Equity-deserving groups, with nature, they pair. Persons with disabilities, indigenous kin, Racialized groups, LGBTQI2S+ within.
Immigrants, refugees, newcomers with pride, Language challenges, bridges we’ll provide. Low-income households, their burdens release, Youth and seniors, finding solace and peace.
Mental illness warriors, we walk side by side, Victims of violence, love’s healing tide. Persons with low literacy, knowledge’s key, Forests, nature, wetlands, let their wonders be.
How can 192 hectares be a welcoming space, For equity-deserving groups, a nurturing place? We gather, we advocate, we break down the wall, Making the afforestation areas accessible to all.
Species at risk, we champion their plight, The Red-Berried Elder, a symbol of light. Green Ash and American Elm, their majesty dear, Let’s protect them, their future clear.
Turkey Vultures soaring, imperiled and rare, Northern Small Yellow Lady’s Slipper, a beauty we share. Western Yellowjackets, Goldenrod Gall Fly’s plight, Woodland Skipper’s dance, Silver-spotted Skipper’s flight.
American White Pelicans, their grace in the sky, Canada Warblers, a secure song nearby. Semipalmated Sandpipers, a near-threatened breed, Pine Grosbeaks imperiled, their colors recede.
Barred Tiger Salamanders, Endangered they stand, Horned Grebes, Bank Swallows, in our hands. Baird’s Sparrow, Grasshopper Sparrow’s song, Western Grebes, Bobolinks, fragile yet strong.
Red-necked Phalaropes, Lesser Yellowlegs too, Whooping Cranes, their grace, a story we pursue. Let’s weave a symphony of green skills and care, On International Youth Day, a promise we share.
Green Skills for Youth: Let’s Shape the Future!
Please engage in our Green Skills For Youth packages;
To express your interest or inquire further about the non profit environmental charity as supporter, volunteer or to become a board member, please reach out to us at email: friendsafforestation@gmail.com.
May 20th – 28th, 2023 Healthy Trees, Healthy People
Trees are essential to our survival and well-being. They provide us with oxygen, food, and shade, and are critical to sustaining our environment. That’s why Arbor Week is such an important event. It’s a time to celebrate trees and their role in our lives, and to take action to protect them.
This year, Arbor Week will be celebrated from May 20th to 28th. The Saskatchewan Government and City of Saskatoon have both officially proclaimed the last week of May as Arbor Week. The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. have planned a series of events to mark the occasion.
SOS Trees Coalition is inviting Saskatchewan municipalities and community organizations to celebrate Arbor Week through educational activities, planting, and protecting trees in their community. The theme for Arbor Week 2023 is Healthy Trees, Healthy People, which emphasizes the role of trees in enhancing mental, social, and physical health.
Maple Leaf Day and #NationalForestWeek 4 The Trembling Aspen is also referred to as the Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx)
The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. have organized invigorating walks in two beautiful parks, the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. The walks will be guided by knowledgeable nature enthusiasts who will share their insights about the incredible benefits of trees to our environment, including their role in purifying the air, providing habitat for wildlife, conserving water, and improving mental and physical health.
During the walks, participants will have the chance to observe diverse tree species, learn about their unique characteristics, and appreciate their beauty up close. They will also have the opportunity to participate in engaging activities that promote environmental awareness and tree conservation. The walks are a perfect opportunity to network, make new friends, and build lasting memories.
All tour guides have undergone a vulnerable sector search to ensure the safety of participants. The walks are scheduled as follows:
In addition to the walks, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. invite you to partake in the Prairie Forest Guide beta version to celebrate Arbor Week. This link for the Prairie Forest Guide https://pfg.friendsareas.ca/ can be accessed anytime for a sneak preview, however, for the full interpretive story experience, the digital wayfinding guide produces the full story in text and audio format when the user is walking in the forest 😉 enjoying the sights, sounds and scenery.
Arbor Week is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the beauty and importance of trees, and to take action to protect them. Let’s come together to celebrate and protect our precious green spaces for generations to come!
Share the gift of health and wellness this winter. Come celebrate winter in the forest! Appreciate this semi-wilderness habitat with species at risk, eBird hotspots for bird viewing, and an off leash recreation area. Have you come out to the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or to the George Genereux Urban Regional Park yet? Join the growing community who appreciate these forest spaces. Directions
A 2023 calendar for you to download and print presenting both wildlife and wilderness habitats from Saskatoon’s hidden gems. In gratitude for everyone who became members, and gave donations, we were happy to be able to have calendars this year to showcase these natural heritage greenspaces. We have no more printed copies, so we would like to share the pdf with whomever would like a copy to download and experience the forests this way.
The 50 for 50 Legacy Activity Book is now online to view on ISSUU or download page by page! Thanks for all the amazing donations to make this book come online page by page. Enjoy the crossword puzzles, word searches, challenges, arts activities, and so much more.
Wildwoods of Saskatoon film now online, 50th Birthday for Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park in SaskatoonLegacy of Saskatoon’s Hidden Forest Now online; 50th anniversary celebartion Richard St. Barbe Baker Global Conservationist and Humanitarian receives Honourary Doctorate of Laws U of S
Curriculum resources found online which help learning in the afforestation areas which are mixed woodlands resembling a boreal forest ecosystem on the prairies.
“The world’s problem, is not a population explosion, but animal explosion. We’ve got to decide whether we are going to feed animals or humans. To feed animals is a roundabout way of getting food. It takes 18 times more land to feed people on beef than on vegetables, nuts fruits and grains.” Richard St. Barbe Baker.
Earth Day Canada has a campaign #TakeCareOfThePlanet! Doesn’t that sound like the best idea ever. There are more ideas of how to become involved in Earth Day.
The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. encourages everyone to take care of the Earth, by caring for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park with our own local campaign #TakeCareOfTheAfforestationAreas! Don’t cut elm in the park. Encourage everyone to reduce, reuse and recycle then we may not see quite so much trash illegally deposited in the forest. Participate in volunteer clean up days, or don’t wait….pick up an item of trash next time you are on a walk. If everyone picked up one or two items of trash, there would soon be none at all 😉
Comment with what you are doing today on Earth day, and what you plan to do for Earth Month.
““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
“They’re teaching about The Pyramid of Life in the schools today. There is the ground producing all the soil bacteria, which is in the top few inches. That grows the grass, and a a lamb comes along and eats ten pounds of grass, and that makes one lamb, and then a tiger comes along and eats ten pounds of lamb, and that makes one pound of tiger. We have too many tigers. The Pyramid of Life is upset, and one of the things we must do is to turn from an animal economy to a silvan economy. We’ve got to have tree crops, instead of wasting all this land for raising beef and bringing money to the beef barons, who are proud to call themselves beef barons. It takes eighteen times more land to feed people on beef than it does on nuts and fruit. Eighteen times more land. When half the human family today are dying from starvation. I don’t feel justified in making these demands on the earth. I, myself have been a lifelong vegetarian. ” Richard St. Barbe Baker
I believe that water must be the basic consideration in all our national and earth- wide forest programmes. Streams and rivers must be returned to their natural motion. ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker
Podiceps Auritus is quite an amazing looking waterbird with yellow / white unique feathers behind its eyes tufted up to appear as “horns”, thus it name. This little bird is quite striking with black head, red eyes, and the white tufted ears bobbing along above a dark chestnut/black coloured body. These are the breeding colours when the Horned Grebe is all dressed up for show and courtship.
There are many books written nowadays which will tell you about birds as folk of the twentieth century see them. They describe carefully the singer’s house, his habits, the number of his little wife’s eggs, and the color of every tiny feather on her pretty wings. But these books tell you nothing at all about bird-history; about what birds have meant to all the generations of men, women, and children since the world began. You would think, to read the words of the bird-book men, that they were the very first folk to see any bird, and that what they think they have seen is the only matter worth the knowing.
Now the interesting facts about birds we have always with us. We can find them out for ourselves, which is a very pleasant thing to do, or we can take the word of others, of which there is no lack. But it is the quaint fancies about birds which are in danger of being lost. They show what the little feathered brothers have been to the children of men; how we have come to like some and to dislike others as we do; why the poets have called them by certain nicknames which we ought to know…~Abbie Farwell Brown
Nesting of the Horned Grebe will occur at a site in shallow water, most commonly amid wetlands flora alongside marshes. Breeding pairs most often choose sites in temperate zones of the Canadian prairies. The nests are made of wetlands plant material and anchored to the plants alongside freshwater marshes for concealment. Symbiosis played a major role in the co-evolution of the prairie marsh eco-system and the Horned Grebe.
Quite the jolliest season of the year, with the birds, is when they begin to require a home, either as a shelter from the weather, a defence against their enemies, or a place to rear and protect their young. May is not the only month in which they build their nests, some of our favorites, indeed, waiting till June, and even July; but as it is the time of the year when a general awakening to life and activity is felt in all nature, and the early migrants have come back, not to re-visit, but to re-establish their temporarily deserted homes, we naturally fix upon the first real spring month as the one in which their little hearts are filled with titillations of joy and anticipation.~C. C. Marble.
Horned Grebe Podiceps Auritus Nesting
In winter, the Horned Grebe has a black crown, and a pale foreneck, cheeks and underparts, quite distinct from the showy breeding coloration. The Horned Grebe show up here in April, with the majority of sightings in May, June, and July. Sightings of the Horned Grebe continue on until November when they leave to the Aleutians and exposed shorelines of saltwater oceans to overwinter.
A grebe most resembles a small loon when it comes to waterbirds. Grebes in general are ducklike divers with lobed toes (not webbed feet) and sharp pointed bills. This little waterbird is quite fascinating to watch, at times diving down under the water as a loon, at other times just sinking down. The grebe will sit with its body much lower in the water than a duck.
The Horned Grebe needs to be on water to fly, and is not often seen on land. When not on the water, the Horned Grebe will maneuver awkwardly as a jumping and hopping motion, rushing across the surface of the water to gather up speed for flight.
Designated Special Concern by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada COSEWIC, “because over 90% of this bird’s breeding grounds are within Western Canadian wetlands, the continued destruction of marshes and waterways is a major threat to the survival of this species.”Nature Canada “Threats include degradation of wetland breeding habitat, droughts, increasing populations of nest predators (mostly in the Prairies), and oil spills on their wintering grounds in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. COSEWIC”
“The global population has been declined by 30% over the last three decades and by 79% within North America. Within 1985 and 2001, grassland and wetland drainage amounted to 5% global habitat loss. Due to global declines, the Horned Grebe has been unlisted from least concern to vulnerable resulting in conservation and research action plans.*”
According to the Ministry of the Environment, A breeding bird or breeding Grebe colony is protected May 15 through to July 15 of the year, foot traffic, and other low disturbances must maintain a distance of 100 meters. Medium disturbances such as vehicles and ATVs as well as high disturbances, roads, drilling both must maintain a distance of 200m from loons and any Colonial Nesting Grebes.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Nature Canada suggests:
“Tell elected officials that you support the protection of at least half of Canada’s Boreal forest.” “The eco-system of a forest is very fragile. It is very easily upset. This would be a fifth reason why tree cover should be maintained…It is not enough for a mayor to put on his chain and plant a tree but he must plant forest trees for our lives”~Richard St. Barbe Baker. The afforestation areas of Saskatoon are a vital heritage site, and a true testament to the Parks Department of Saskatoon.
Dan Kraus, Weston conservation scientist and senior director of conservation program development for the Nature Conservancy of Canada, writes about the temperate prairies, and the endangered grasslands ~ the World’s most endangered eco-system. So it certainly would not hurt to tell your elected officials that you support the protection as well, of the native grasslands of the West Swale, including those of the Afforestation area formerly known as George Genereux Urban Regional Park, and the native grasslands of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area.
“When viewed in the context of our climate and geological history, it is evident that prairie wetlands are integral and irreplaceable parts of the Saskatchewan landscape.The challenge is to find a place for these wetlands in our social, economic and land-use systems – a place where their protection and conservation is assured by their inherent value.Managing Saskatchewan’s Wetlands” Is there not truly a great symbiosis between woodlands, grasslands and wetlands?
“Advocate for greater protection of Important Bird Areas (IBA) in your community and across the country.” Do you consider Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, the West Swale, and the many and several wetlands around Chappell Marsh an important bird area? Chappell Marsh is huge, extending from Chappell Marsh Conservation Area managed by Ducks Unlimited, into Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area managed by the City of Saskatoon and the Meewasin Valley Authority.
“Learn more about IBAs.”
“Stay informed about endangered birds and other species”
“Thousands of volunteers have helped conserve Important Bird Areas by surveying bird populations, building nest boxes, erecting signs, removing invasive species, planting native grasses, and promoting awareness of the value of wildlife.”
What will you do?
From the account above, can you recognize the Horned Grebe, now on your travels into the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, and around about the West Swale wetlands, the series of marshes alongside Chappell Marsh?
I believe, therefore, that water must be a basic consideration in all our national and earth wide forest programmes. Streams and rivers must be restored to their natural motion and thus floods and droughts must be eliminated. Forests and woodlands are intimately linked with biological, social and spiritual well-being. I believe that the minimum tree cover for safety is l/3rd of the total land area of every country. Every catchment area should have at least this proportion of tree cover made of mixed species including the broad leaved trees” ~Richard St. Barbe Baker
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Collins, Henry Hill Editor. Harper and Row’s Complete Field Guide to North American Wildlife. Harper and Row Publishers. New York. 1981. ISBN 0-06-181163-7 page 12. Continuing Horned Grebe and Snow Buntings sullivancountybirder, Sullivan & Delaware County Birder’s Blog
COSEWIC Assessment and Status Report on the Horned Grebe Podiceps Auritus. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. COSEWIC. 2009. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Horned Grebe Podiceps auritus Western population and Magdalen Islands population, in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. vii + 42 pp.
(www.sararegistry.gc.ca/
status/status_e.cfm)
Horned Grebe v.s. Highways. CBC.ca The Afternoon Edition. [Saskatchewan Highways and infrastructure have run into a different kind of roadblock at the site of one of their construction projects: the Horned Grebe.]
Horned Grebe. All About Birds Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Peterson, Roger Tory. A Field Guide to Western Birds. A completely new guide to Field Marks of All Species Found in North America West of the 100th Meridian and North of Mexico. Peterson Field Guides. Third Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company Boston. 1990. ISBN 0-395-51749-4. page 26
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
““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 trees and vegetation, which cover the land surface of the Earth and delight the eye, are performing vital tasks incumbent upon the vegetable world in nature. Its presence is essential to earth as an organism. It is the first condition of all life; it it the ‘skin’ of the earth, for without it there can be no water, and therefore, no life.~Richard St. Barbe Baker
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I believe that water must be the basic consideration in all our national and earth- wide forest programmes. Streams and rivers must be returned to their natural motion. What is a natural motion? A river flowing in its natural course comes to a bend. This gives it a spiral motion. It comes to a marrow, this provides tension. It broadens out, here is relaxation. This is how blood circulates in our veins and the sap circulates in a tree. This is the natural motion. When you destroy this natural motion, the water goes on its way sick or cancerous. When water comes up against a dam, the natural motion is destroyed and the water becomes sick. This sickness spreads up to the tributary rivers and to the fields through which these rivers have come and the sickness will go to the fields bordering these rivers and will affect the grazing animals. They say that cancer is a disease of civilization. You will accept that, won’t you? It was unknown till we called ourselves civilized. ~Richard St. Barbe Baker
Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life. 