climate change action – Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life.

As the city of Saskatoon embarks on a deeper commitment to environmental stewardship, the upcoming Heritage Festival of Saskatoon offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of history, heritage, and sustainability. On Sunday, February 2nd, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. will unveil an immersive display that sheds light on two of the city’s most cherished green spaces: the 326 acre Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the 148 acre George Genereux Urban Regional Park inside the City of Saskatoon.

From 12 p.m. noon to 6 p.m., visitors will be transported back in time to the origins of Saskatoon’s greenbelt movement from 1960. Afforestation efforts, ignited during the 1970s Green Survival Program, laid the foundation for the urban forests we cherish today. While many may be familiar with the sprawling beauty of these spaces, the Heritage Festival provides a closer look at the stories that shaped them—stories that continue to guide Saskatoon’s environmental policies and practices.

At the heart of this legacy are figures like Richard St. Barbe Baker—the visionary conservationist who, in the mid-1900s, called for a global effort to combat deforestation—and George Genereux, Canada’s only gold medalist from the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, whose later work in education and advocacy contributed to the Canada’s health and wellness goals. Their efforts continue to inspire environmental action, both locally and globally.

The highlight of the exhibit, however, may be the opportunity to learn about the West Swale, one of the most fascinating geological features in Saskatchewan, formed during the Pleistocene era. This delicate and unique ecosystem is home to diverse flora and fauna, playing a pivotal role in Saskatoon’s urban sustainability. The display will feature an array of multimedia materials, including educational packages, pamphlets, and firsthand accounts from those who have worked tirelessly to preserve these areas.

While the city celebrates its environmental achievements, it’s also a moment to reflect on the ongoing work needed to ensure the health and vitality of these green spaces for future generations. The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. are not only working to preserve these areas, but also to educate the public about their critical role in maintaining sustainable urban ecosystems.

As you explore the exhibit, you’ll hear about the significant impact of local community efforts—such as the annual clean-up events that have removed over 34,890 kg of toxic and hazardous waste from the two afforestation areas protecting the habitats of over 62 species of concern. These ongoing efforts embody the heart of environmental stewardship, proving that even small acts of dedication can lead to big changes in protecting our natural world.

So, on February 2nd, take a walk through the rich history of the WDM and also celebrate Saskatoon’s afforestation areas and the people who made it all possible. Celebrate the green spaces that shape our city’s environmental future and contribute to a global conversation on conservation and sustainability.

We’ll see you at the Western Development Museum, 12-5 Sunday February 2, 2025 where the past, present, and future of Saskatoon’s natural heritage converge.

Join us, and help shape the future of our planet.

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

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

For more information:

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

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

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

Addresses:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation