Tag: citizens

The Saga of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas

A Tapestry of Resilience: The Saga of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas

In the latest edition of Saskatoon Nature Society’s Nature Notes, a rich tapestry of history unfolds, weaving together the remarkable journey of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas. From the mid 20th century to the present day, this chronicle reveals the enduring spirit of stewardship and community that has shaped these two Saskatoon’s green spaces.

In the mid twentieth century, as the prairie winds whispered tales of ecological imbalance, visionaries embarked on a bold endeavor to reclaim the land from erosion’s grasp. Inspired by a desire to nurture biodiversity and combat the encroaching urban sprawl, the Afforestation Areas initiative took root. Through meticulous planning and laborious effort, thousands of trees were planted, 200,000 in fact, transforming barren landscapes into thriving ecosystems.

In the early years, dedicated individuals like Bert Wellman, City Manager and Director of Planning and Development; Bill Graham, urban planner and Alex Ligtermoet, Assistant Parks Superintendent laid the groundwork for what would become a beacon of conservation in Saskatchewan. Their tireless advocacy and hands-on involvement galvanized community support, laying the foundational sustainability inspiration for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

Naming local landmarks and public areas not only instills a sense of identity in our communities but also cultivates a feeling of attachment and inclusivity. By christening our greenspaces honouring George Genereux, Richard St. Barbe Baker, Bruce Gordon and B.T. Chappell, we pay homage to historical narratives and evoke vivid imagery that reflects our shared past and present achievements.

Through years marked by shifting priorities and economic challenges, the Friends remained steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding these precious green spaces. As urbanization encroached upon the outskirts of Saskatoon, they became champions for the preservation of natural habitats, advocating for responsible development and mindful stewardship.

The Nature Notes article chronicles the trials and triumphs encountered along the way – from bureaucratic hurdles to the ongoing challenge of securing protected status for the afforestation areas. Through it all, a resilient community emerged, united by a common love for nature and a shared vision for the future.

Today, as climate change looms large and the pressures of urban expansion intensify, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas continue their vital work. Through restoration projects, educational initiatives, and community engagement, they strive to ensure that future generations will inherit a legacy of biodiversity and beauty.

As readers immerse themselves in the pages of Nature Notes, they are invited to witness the unfolding story of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas – a story of resilience, collaboration, and the enduring power of nature. In these green spaces, where the echoes of the past mingle with the promise of the future, the spirit of stewardship thrives, reminding us of our interconnectedness with the land and each other.

We express our deepest gratitude to the Saskatoon Nature Society for presenting the insightful Nature Notes article, “Preserving Nature’s Legacy: The Journey with Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas,” which serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation in our community.

Which is the segway for calling all citizens of Saskatoon and Area! from April 26 to April 29, 2024 we’re hoping you’ll venture outdoors and take part in #CNC #CityNatureChallenge Saskatoon and Area! Get out and about recording wildlife observations and contributing to this chance to place Saskatoon and Area on the world stage! CNC YXE DNU.

This #CNC event is hosted by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, and sponsored by SaskTel, SaskPower and the Saskatoon Nature Society with support from City of Saskatoon, Wild About Saskatoon, Varsity View Community Association, SOS Trees Inc., Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. Please reach out should you wish to sponsor, volunteer or collaborate.

City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

An "after" image of the afforestation area. After the amazing clean up of the greenspace
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, south west sector, in the City of Saskatoon, SK, CA before Volunteer Community Clean UP 2016
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
George Genereux Urban Regional Park Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Sept 24
George Genereux Urban Regional Park Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area West Side Benches with a new coat of stain!

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.comFacebook 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 )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

““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

From Vision to Action: Saskatoon’s Historic Climate-Forward Budget

In the Canopy’s Embrace: Letters from Friends of Saskatoon’s Green Sanctuary” Saskatoon’s afforestation areas are not just patches of land; they are living canvases painted by the hands of nature, woven into the city’s vibrant tapestry. As stewards of these green sanctuaries, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas implore you to pick up your pen and join us in safeguarding this haven.

Our city stands on the brink of a historic moment—the 2024-2025 City Budget, the maiden voyage into a climate action budget. In the face of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, Saskatoon calls upon its citizens to shape a sustainable future. This is not just a budget; it is a declaration of our commitment to Mother Earth.

The deliberations within City Council echo the rustling leaves and the gentle sway of branches in the Afforestation Areas. The decisions made will resonate in the whispers of the wind through the trees, in the song of the birds, and in the dance of the prairie grasses. This is our chance to ensure that the heart of our city, the Afforestation Areas, remains a flourishing testament to our dedication to nature.

The proposed budget cuts cast shadows on our green legacy. Options like the closure of the East Compost Depot and the reduction of tree planting are clouds threatening our beloved urban forest. However, the voice of Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas rises like a chorus of birdsong, advocating for the preservation of our green haven.

In the spirit of Richard St. Barbe Baker, the global conservationist who inspired millions to plant trees, let us unite in our efforts. Let us make history, and say as tribute to Richard St. Barbe Baker, “I knew that I had embarked upon something that was far beyond my powers to accomplish but I knew that no one else could undertake it for me. It was the thing I believed in, and I would do it.” Let this sentiment guide our pens and our voices.

Join us, dear Saskatoonians, in the call to action. Write a letter to City Council supporting sustainability, climate action, and the preservation of Saskatoon’s green soul. Stand with the Sustainability Department, advocating for a historic budget transformation that fosters a healthier planet. Let the ink flow to shape a future where Saskatoon rises as a beacon of environmental resilience.

The Afforestation Areas are not just parcels of land; they are our shared responsibility, a testament to our commitment to a greener, cleaner Saskatoon. Act now! Arrange to submit your letter or speak to the council before November 27, 5 p.m. Let us weave a narrative of resilience, biodiversity, and sustainability.

As the final budget review approaches, join your neighbors at City Hall from November 28 to 30, 2023. Be the guardian of our green legacy, for it is in our hands that the fate of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas rests.

In the spirit of unity and shared responsibility, let your words be the wind that carries the message to City Council. Write for life, for the Afforestation Areas, and for a sustainable future. Together, we ink a green legacy, a testament to our love for Saskatoon and Mother Earth. #SaskatoonRising #ClimateAction #SustainableFuture

Currently these environmental items were offered up as potential environmental budget cuts for consideration.

Saskatoon’s climate budget and what it could mean for residents

Saskatoon’s first climate budget to be previewed next week

Saskatoon City Council presents first budget directed towards climate initiatives

Planet Earth, the World, is in our Hands
Caragana arborescens, the Siberian peashrub, Siberian pea-tree, or caragana
Business, Technology, 21st Century Culture, Planet Earth

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.comFacebook 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

Green Horizon: Saskatoon’s Groundbreaking Climate Action Budget

Grasp Your Pen! Saskatoon’s First Climate Action Budget Calls for Your Support

In the face of pressing challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, Saskatoon stands at a critical crossroads. The upcoming 2024-2025 City Budget represents a watershed moment—a chance for the city to embrace sustainable practices and forge a resilient future. This budget is not just a financial plan; it’s a statement of commitment to environmental stewardship. Now, more than ever, your voice can shape Saskatoon’s destiny.

A Call to Action

As Saskatoon approaches the culmination of the 2024-2025 Multi-Year Business Plan & Budget, it’s time for residents to rally for a sustainable future. The Sustainability Department, along with environmental advocates, is pushing for a historic budget transformation that prioritizes climate action and sustainability. Your involvement is pivotal—let your voice be heard!

Saskatoon Rising: Join the Climate Action Movement

We invite you to write a letter to the City Council expressing your support for sustainability initiatives, climate action, and a cleaner Saskatoon. Stand shoulder to shoulder with the Sustainability Department and be part of this transformative moment. Saskatoon Rising is not just a hashtag; it’s a collective call for a city-wide commitment to combat climate change.

Act Now!

Arrange to submit your letter or speak before the City Council by November 27, 5 p.m. Your proactive engagement can help shape a future where Saskatoon becomes a beacon of environmental responsibility. Let’s seize this opportunity to create a Saskatoon that leads in fostering a healthier planet.

Final Budget Review: A Chance to Participate

City Council will meticulously review budget line options during the final budget review scheduled for November 28 – 30, 2023. This is the moment to stand with your neighbors at City Hall and advocate for a budget that reflects our collective commitment to sustainability.

Proposed Environmental Actions Need Your Support

Several environmentally impactful options have been proposed for the trimming the budget, including tree-related initiatives like Reduced Tree Planting (Option 7) and Extension of Tree Pruning Cycle (Option 8). Let us now see these options being cut for the next two years, let’s protect our trees and urban tree canopy! Out of the ten options, only four have been recommended and approved by the City of Saskatoon Council. For full details of potential cuts to the City of Saskatoon’s actions

Recommended Options That have been Cut

  1. Option 1 – Closure of East Compost Depot
  2. Option 2 – Adjust Operating Hours at Landfill and Material Recovery Centre
  3. Option 3 – Eliminate Skunk Inspection, Trapping, and Relocation Services for Private Residential Properties
  4. Option 4 – Reduce Mosquito Control Treatment Area

Your Letter Can Make a Difference

Support the environmental actions proposed, especially Option 7 – Reduced Tree Planting and Option 8 – Extension of Tree Pruning Cycle. Your letter can influence the decision to protect Saskatoon’s urban canopy and promote green initiatives in the face of biodiversity loss and climate change.

These are other environmental proposals which may be cut from action. Do you want to say good bye to these options over the next two years?

Option 1 – Closure of East Compost Depot
Option 2 – Adjust Operating hours at Landfill and Material Recovery Centre
Option 3 – Eliminate Skunk Inspection, Trapping and Relocation Services for Private Residential Properties
Option 4 – Reduce Mosquito Control Treatment Area
Option 5 – Discontinue Christmas Tree Drop-off Sites
Option 6 – Further adjustments to Operating hours at Landfill and Material Recovery Centre
Option 7 – Reduced Tree Planting
Option 8 – Extension of Tree Pruning Cycle
Option 9 – Eliminate GHG Management Software
Option 10 – Eliminate Healthy Yards and Boulevards Garden Program Advertising and Support
Option 11 – End Student Action for a Sustainable Future program contribution

Governance and Priorities Committee Recommendation

The Governance and Priorities Committee recommends including the aforementioned options in the 2024/2025 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget. These options signify a commitment to sustainability and a step towards a greener Saskatoon.

Let’s join hands, Saskatoon! This is our moment to contribute to a resilient, biodiverse, and cleaner city. Act now, write your letter, and be a part of Saskatoon’s journey towards a sustainable future! #SaskatoonRising #ClimateAction #SustainableFuture

Saskatoon’s climate budget and what it could mean for residents

Saskatoon’s first climate budget to be previewed next week

Saskatoon City Council presents first budget directed towards climate initiatives

Planet Earth, the World, is in our Hands
Safety in the Forests for everyone!
Benefits of trees and afforestation
Benefits of trees and afforestation
Earth Day April 22, 2020 tree planting

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.comFacebook 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

Saskatoon’s Green Revolution: Crafting a Sustainable Future in the City’s First Climate Action Budget

Subtitle: “The 2024-2025 Multi-Year Business Plan & Budget: A Pivotal Moment for Environmental Resilience”

Introduction: In the wake of global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, Saskatoon is at a crossroads. The upcoming 2024-2025 City Budget marks a historic opportunity to spearhead a transformative climate action budget—ushering in a new era of sustainability and resilience for the city.

Call to Action: #GrabYourPen! Saskatoon residents are invited to be architects of change by participating in the call to action. Support the Sustainability Department of Saskatoon, we beckon citizens to write letters to the City Council, emphasizing support for groundbreaking initiatives, climate action, and a cleaner Saskatoon. It’s a collective effort to shape a future where Saskatoon becomes a beacon of environmental responsibility.

Key Themes:

  • Bold Initiatives: The budget promises bold initiatives to tackle pressing environmental issues head-on. From climate action plans to sustainable practices, Saskatoon is gearing up for a green revolution.
  • Resilient Infrastructure: The city aims to build resilient infrastructure that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change. This includes measures to protect the urban canopy, such as reduced tree planting and an extension of the tree pruning cycle.
  • Innovative Solutions: The 2024-2025 budget is not just about addressing current issues but also about fostering innovation. It encourages innovative solutions to environmental problems, positioning Saskatoon as a leader in sustainable urban development.

Deadline and Participation: City Council’s final budget review is scheduled from November 28 to 30, 2023. Public participation is crucial at this juncture. Citizens interested in contributing must arrange to submit letters or speak to the council before the November 27, 5 p.m. deadline.

Environmental Actions at Risk: Several environmental actions, initially proposed as potential budget cuts, are now at risk. Options like reduced tree planting and an extension of the tree pruning cycle are essential for protecting Saskatoon’s urban canopy and combating biodiversity loss and climate change.

Recommended Options: Out of the 10 proposed environmental options to trim the budget, only four have been recommended and approved by the City of Saskatoon Council. Citizens are urged to write letters in support of those recommended options potentially on the chopping block, particularly Option 7 – Reduced Tree Planting and Option 8 – Extension of Tree Pruning Cycle, to safeguard Saskatoon’s greenery.

Remaining Options: The remaining options to trime the budget cover a range of areas, including

Option 1 – Closure of East Compost Depot
Option 2 – Adjust Operating hours at Landfill and Material Recovery Centre
Option 3 – Eliminate Skunk Inspection, Trapping and Relocation Services for Private Residential Properties
Option 4 – Reduce Mosquito Control Treatment Area
Option 5 – Discontinue Christmas Tree Drop-off Sites
Option 6 – Further adjustments to Operating hours at Landfill and Material Recovery Centre
Option 7 – Reduced Tree Planting
Option 8 – Extension of Tree Pruning Cycle
Option 9 – Eliminate GHG Management Software
Option 10 – Eliminate Healthy Yards and Boulevards Garden Program
Option 11 – End Student Action for a Sustainable Future program contribution

Public engagement is crucial to ensure the prioritization of environmental conservation.

Governance and Priorities Committee’s Recommendation: The Governance and Priorities Committee recommends the inclusion of specific options in the 2024/2025 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget. These include the closure of East Compost Depot, reduced operating hours at the landfill, elimination of skunk inspection services, and a reduction in the mosquito control treatment area.

Conclusion: As Saskatoon stands on the brink of a historic budget transformation, citizens are called upon to be the driving force behind a sustainable future. By participating in the call to action, residents can ensure that Saskatoon rises to the occasion, becoming a resilient, biodiverse, and cleaner city. The 2024-2025 budget is not just a financial plan—it’s a commitment to safeguarding the environment and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.

Saskatoon’s climate budget and what it could mean for residents

Saskatoon’s first climate budget to be previewed next week

Saskatoon City Council presents first budget directed towards climate initiatives

Commemorate #NationalForestWeek with a theme in 2022 "Canada's Forests: Solutions for a Changing Climate." 2022 is the 30th anniversary of "Maple Leaf Day" or National Tree Day in Canada
City of Saskatoon, SK, CA
Business, Technology, 21st Century Culture, Planet Earth

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.comFacebook 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

The Success of City Nature Challenge CNCYXE2023 Saskatoon and Area: Unique Sightings and the Importance of Citizen Science

The City Nature Challenge is a global event that encourages people to explore and document nature in their local areas. Between April 28 – May 1, 2023, Saskatoon and the surrounding area participated in the challenge, and the results were impressive. Even in these very early spring months there were 831 observations, a whopping 246 species discovered, 116 identifiers, and 37 committed observers, the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon was a success.

The CNC 'City Nature Challenge,' CNCYXE2023 Natoona pimatshihk dans la vil in the Michif Language
The CNC ‘City Nature Challenge,’ CNCYXE2023 Natoona pimatshihk dans la vil in the Michif Language
Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias
Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias
City Nature Challenge CNCYXE
City Nature Challenge CNCYXE
Horned Grebe Podiceps auritus
Horned Grebe Podiceps auritus
Gray Comma Butterfly Spring Polygonia progne
Gray Comma Butterfly Spring Polygonia progne

The challenge provided a platform for citizens to participate in citizen science, and document unique sightings. Kathlin in the Saskatoon area documented some exciting bird finds during this mass migration season, but her favourite was a Great Blue Heron eating a rodent. This sighting was pretty spectacular, and it was exciting to spot the heron through the reeds.

An American mink was another exciting visitor in the neighbourhood of Sutherland, Saskatoon. This semi-aquatic animal is an unusual sight in the city, and it was a great find for those who spotted it.

The challenge also helped document species that are at risk or vulnerable. The Horned Grebe is a species at risk in Canada due to habitat loss and degradation. Prairie Violet or crowfoot violet is vulnerable and thought to grow in only about 100 places in the entire province of Saskatchewan. The Gray Comma butterfly, listed as common on the Saskatoon Nature Society’s published checklist, was confirmed for the first time on iNaturalist.

Sara mentioned that the challenge also helped to document the presence of rare or hard-to-find species, such as the Togwotee Harvestman and the Whirligig beetle. The Hydrobius fuscipes, a species never before recorded in the Saskatoon area on iNaturalist, was observed three times during the challenge. Whirlgig beetles are hard to photograph, and this is a rare observation of one just chilling! It is also the very first research grade observation of the genus in the saskatoon area on iNaturalist.!

In addition to the unique sightings, the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon also highlighted the importance of early detection and rapid response to invasive species. The Common Buckthorn was found, and this invasive species requires early detection and rapid response activities. It is a noxious weed, a hazard to other trees “a tree killer”, and a menace to oat crops.

Finally, the challenge also highlighted the vulnerability of some species to pollution and human activity. The American White Pelican is at the top of the aquatic food chain, making it vulnerable to biomagnification and bioaccumulation of pollutants. The Goldenrod Gall Fly, Lily Leaf Beetle, Common Grackle, Canada Wild Rye, and Green Ash are also at risk due to factors such as habitat loss, population reduction, and invasive species.

The success of the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon and the surrounding area is a testament to the power of citizen science and community engagement. Through participation in events like this, citizens can make meaningful contributions to scientific research and help protect the natural world around them.

In addition to the unique sightings and discoveries made during the City Nature Challenge CNCYXE2023 Saskatoon and Area, we would like to express our appreciation for the many naturalists who came out and added to the conversation about biodiversity.

Their passion and dedication to nature were evident in the many observations they made, the insights they shared, and the enthusiasm they displayed. It is through their efforts that we were able to achieve such great success during this year’s challenge.

One of the great things about the City Nature Challenge is that it encourages people to get outside and explore the natural world around them. It is through this exploration that we gain a greater appreciation for the complexity and beauty of our local ecosystems.

We were fortunate to have many experienced naturalists, nature enthusiasts and biologists participate in this year’s challenge, and their expertise and insights were invaluable in helping us identify and understand the many species we observed.

But we were also thrilled to see so many new nature enthusiasts join the challenge, many of whom were able to discover and document species they had never seen before. This is exactly the kind of engagement we hope to inspire through events like the City Nature Challenge.

So to all of the naturalists – just starting out, and experienced- who participated in this year’s challenge, we extend our deepest appreciation and thanks. Your efforts have not only contributed to our understanding of local biodiversity but have also inspired a new generation of nature enthusiasts to get out and explore the natural world. We look forward to seeing what we can discover together in the years to come.

So if this all sounds exciting, please download the free iNaturalist app to your smart phone, explore the City Nature Challenge and Saskatoon on your computer at home and join in any time of the year! Find it! Snap it! Share it! Be the Voice for Nature. Stay tuned for summer and fall events and BioBlitzes.

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.comFacebook 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

Support from EcoFriendly Sask

Thank you to Penny McKinlay & Andrew McKinlay from EcoFriendly Sask who have kindly offered support for the City Nature Challenge 2022: Saskatoon Défi nature urbaine!

CNC YXE 2022 DNU

It is very exciting to add the EcoFriendly Sask logo to the iNaturalist banner, the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon YXE Défi nature urbaine website, poster and pamphlets, and on social media! How amazing to obtain this support to engage the community in the City of Saskatoon!

Eco-Friendly Sask. CA Sponsor Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Clean Up 2016 Saskatoon, SK CA
Eco-Friendly Sask. CA Sponsor City Nature Challenge YXE 2022. Saskatoon, SK CA

This is a fantastic way for added promotion in the City of Saskatoon to allow many to have awareness and the opportunity to become more involved with the project and connect with nature in our great city for sure! It’s truly inspiring to acknowledge and know how committed you are about nature. Your generous support is hard at work for this initiative to bring on board folks who will showcase to the world Saskatoon’s wonderful animals, plants, and all the living organisms we appreciate around us.

Thank you again!

For more information

CNC YXE 2022 DFU What does it mean to get involved? YouTube
Tutorial What is It?
City Nature Challenge Canada 2022
Canada Wildlife Federation City Nature Challenge Canada 2022
City Nature Challenge 2022

Sign up now (free) on Eventbrite to take observations Friday, April 29 to Tues May 3, 2022! Signing up will allow us to keep you in the loop about upcoming events, virtually and in person.

Sign up now (free) on Eventbrite for identifications May 3-May 8. Signing up will allow us to keep you in the loop about upcoming events, virtually and in person.

Hosted by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.

CNC YXE is run completely by volunteer organizers. If you’re part of a local stewardship or municipal group and would like to contribute to the promotion of the event, offer your skillsets, or make a donation to this city project please contact friendsafforestation@gmail.com to learn more. 

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.comFacebook 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 using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, 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 Canada Helps or Contact Donate A Car Canada for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

“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

“Every charitable act is a stepping stone toward heaven.”

Henry Ward Beecher

A Global Voice

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. is proud to partner with organisations taking action on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal to take urgent action to combat Climate Change and its impacts around the world. We joined the global dialogue to magnify and intensify the voice through Satellite Events at the Climate Adaptation Summit 2021 hosted out of the Netherlands. We hosted our own satellite event delivering the theme of nature based solutions via afforestation with Richard St. Barbe Baker as a mentor. It is a great opportunity to interact and network with those groups who are exploring ongoing and future avenues to meet and support challenges world wide. The Climate Adaptation Agenda is truly a roadmap for a climate resilient future by 2030. We embrace this unique opportunity to act locally and think globally for climate led adaptations and solutions for transformation.

“I have learned you are never too small to make a difference.”

Greta Thunberg

“Right here, right now is where we draw the line. The world is waking up. And change is coming whether you like it or not.”

Greta Thunberg

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.

Margaret Mead

We forget that we owe our existence to  the presence of Trees.   As far as forest  cover goes, we have never been in such a  vulnerable position as we are today.  The  only answer is to plant more Trees – to  Plant Trees for Our Lives.

Richard St. Barbe Baker

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 CharityTwitter: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 using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, 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! Canada Helps

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 using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, 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! Canada Helps

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration


“The future of the planet concerns all of us, and all of us should do what we can to protect it. ” Wangari Maathai.
“The science of forestry arose from the recognition of a universal need. It embodies the spirit of service to mankind in attempting to provide a means of supplying forever a necessity of life and, in addition, ministering to man’s aesthetic tastes and recreational interests. Besides, the spiritual side of human nature needs the refreshing inspiration which comes from trees and woodlands. If a nations saves its trees, the trees will save the nation. And nations as well as tribes may be brought together in this great movement, based on the ideal of beautifying the world by the cultivation of one of God’s loveliest creatures – the tree.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker.

“Calm soul of all things, make it mine,
To feel amidst the City ‘s jar
That there abides a peace of thine
Men did not make and cannot mar. “
~Richard St. Barbe Baker

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