Awareness campaign – Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life.

Honoring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Reflecting in Saskatoon’s Green Spaces

Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering the children who never returned home from residential schools and honoring the survivors, their families, and their communities. This federal statutory holiday, also known as Orange Shirt Day, emphasizes the painful legacy of residential schools and the ongoing journey towards healing and reconciliation. As Canadians come together to commemorate this day, you can make a meaningful impact independently by spending time in Saskatoon’s beautiful natural spaces—Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park.

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area: A Space for Reflection

The Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, with its serene landscapes and extensive woodlands, offers a tranquil setting to observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in a personal and reflective manner.

**1. Wear Your Orange Shirt: Start your day by donning an orange shirt and beaded orange necklace, symbols of respect and remembrance for the intergenerational impacts of residential schools. As you walk through the afforestation area, let the vibrant color of your attire serve as a visible tribute to “Every Child Matters.”

**2. Personal Reflection: Find a quiet spot among the trees to engage in personal reflection. Bring along a journal or sketchbook to record your thoughts and feelings about the history and legacy of residential schools. Use this time to contemplate the stories and experiences of Indigenous communities, fostering a deeper understanding of the reconciliation process.

**3. Educational Exploration: Bring along educational materials or download resources from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. As you explore the trails, take time to read and reflect on these materials, enhancing your knowledge of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action and the history of residential schools.

**4. Mindful Nature Walk: Embark on a mindful nature walk through the afforestation area, appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility. As you walk, reflect on the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities, and consider how nature can play a role in healing and reconciliation.

George Genereux Urban Regional Park: Embracing the Outdoors

George Genereux Urban Regional Park, with its expansive green spaces and recreational areas, offers another excellent venue for personal commemoration on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

**1. Wear Your Orange Attire: Similar to the afforestation area, wear your orange shirt and beaded necklace as a visible sign of solidarity. The park’s open spaces are ideal for showing your support and honoring the day’s significance.

**2. Create a Commemorative Space: Set up a small, respectful area in the park for personal commemoration. You might lay out a blanket, place an orange shirt, and acknowledge nature’s meaningful symbols. Spend some time in this space to meditate and reflect on the day’s importance.

**3. Engage in Quiet Reflection: Find a peaceful spot by a pond or under a large tree to sit quietly and reflect. Use this time to think about the history of residential schools and the importance of reconciliation. You might choose to read a book or article related to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s work.

**4. Share Your Reflections: Take a moment to share your reflections on social media using the hashtag #NDTR. By doing so, you contribute to a broader conversation about reconciliation and honor the day’s significance. You might also share a photo of your commemorative setup or your favorite quote from an Indigenous leader.

**5. Connect with Nature: Use the park’s natural environment to connect with the spirit of reconciliation. Walk through the park’s trails, appreciate its beauty, and consider how nature can be a source of healing and renewal for both individuals and communities.

A Day of Personal and Collective Meaning

By spending National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in these natural spaces, you honor the significance of the day in a meaningful and personal way. Whether through reflection, education, or connection with nature, you participate in the larger journey of reconciliation. Remember, every individual action contributes to the collective effort of acknowledging history and supporting healing.

For those looking to learn more or engage further, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation offers valuable resources, and national events will illuminate Parliament Hill in orange, symbolizing unity and remembrance.

By embracing these practices, you not only commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue and efforts towards a more inclusive and understanding Canada.

For additional resources and information on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and its calls to action, visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s website, library and collections, as well as its National Student Memorial Register

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 )

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““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

Protecting Saskatoon’s Elm Trees: A Community Call to Action

In the midst of Saskatoon’s natural beauty lies a hidden threat to one of its most iconic species: the American Elm. Revered for its majestic stature and graceful canopy, the American Elm (Ulmus Americana) faces a formidable adversary in the form of Dutch Elm Disease (DED). As guardians of Saskatoon’s urban forests, it is imperative that we unite in our efforts to protect these cherished trees in the afforestation areas from the devastating effects of DED.

The urgency of this mission is underscored during the Governance and Priorities Committee (GPC) meeting on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Page 177 of the 2023 Service, Savings & Sustainability Monitoring and Response Plan revealed alarming statistics: the Parks Department detected four positive cases of DED in 2023, triggering the implementation of the Dutch Elm Disease Response Plan. This comprehensive plan involved the immediate removal and disposal of infected trees, as well as the initiation of elm wood sweeps in affected neighborhoods. Thank you for the prompt response by the city.

In response to this escalating threat, the City of Saskatoon launched a series of initiatives aimed at curbing the spread of DED which we are enormously grateful for. A Proper Elm Disposal Pilot program was introduced in 2023, offering free elm wood disposal for the month of October. The program aimed to address the barrier of cost associated with proper disposal, resulting in a significant uptake from residents. Based on its success, a program expansion is planned for 2024, further incentivizing prompt and proper disposal practices, stay tuned for further details.

One of the key components of the City’s efforts is the provision of free disposal of elm wood for Saskatoon residents. This initiative aims to encourage the prompt removal of elm wood, reducing the risk of disease transmission to healthy elm trees. Residents are reminded that an elm pruning ban is in place each year from April 1 until August 31. However, this new initiative allows for the free disposal of any elm wood that has been completely removed, previously cut, fallen, or intended as firewood.

Recognizing the importance of early detection and prevention, residents are urged to familiarize themselves with the symptoms of DED. American elm trees with DED may exhibit symptoms as early as June, with leaves wilting, turning yellow, curling, and ultimately turning brown. To report any suspicious symptoms, residents can contact Urban Biological Services 306-975-2890. or complete the online form.

Preventing the spread of DED requires collective action and unwavering dedication. Residents can contribute to this effort by adhering to essential guidelines, such as never storing elm wood, refraining from pruning elms during the provincial pruning ban, and reporting dead or dying elm trees to the City. By working together, we can protect Saskatoon’s urban forest and ensure the continued vitality of our beloved American Elm trees.

In conclusion, the imperative of following proper protocols for Elm management cannot be overstated. As stewards of Saskatoon’s natural heritage, it is incumbent upon us to take proactive measures to safeguard our urban forests for generations to come. Let us stand united in our commitment to protecting Saskatoon’s Elm trees and preserving the beauty of our cityscape.

Remember, our actions today will shape the future of our urban forest. Let’s stand united in our efforts to preserve Saskatoon’s Elm trees for generations to come.