community-driven – Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life.

By: Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.

As the seasons shift and the land undergoes its eternal transformation, there is a deep sense of gratitude that stirs within us. Gratitude for the land, for the trees, for the creatures that call these places home, and for the people who work tirelessly to ensure these treasures are preserved for future generations. Today, we take a moment to reflect on the support and partnership of the Saskatoon Nature Society—an organization that has stood by our side, helping us plant the seeds of environmental stewardship, one initiative at a time.

Thanks to the Saskatoon Nature Society for sponsorship of the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge CNCYXE

Make A Wish Day — Thanks to the Saskatoon Nature Society for sponsorship of the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge CNCYXE

In a world increasingly disconnected from the natural world, the efforts of the Saskatoon Nature Society shine like a beacon. Their mission to connect people with nature and promote its preservation is something we at the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. deeply cherish. Through their dedication to fostering a deeper understanding of the environment, they have helped nurture the growth of numerous educational and conservation projects, including the support of the City Nature Challenge and our ongoing efforts to cultivate stewards and guardians of the environment.

Connecting People and Nature: A Shared Vision

At the heart of the Saskatoon Nature Society’s work is the belief that nature should be both appreciated and understood. They understand that true environmental conservation begins with connection—and that connection begins with education. Through their support, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas have been able to expand our reach, deepening our engagement with the public and offering them hands-on learning experiences in the heart of Saskatoon’s urban greenspaces.

From the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area to the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas has been a guiding force in helping us share the story of these spaces—spaces that have become sanctuaries for wildlife and havens for those seeking solace in nature. Through their educational programs, outreach, and resources, they have amplified our efforts to preserve and protect these important greenspaces. This has been supported by the Saskatoon Nature Society for which we are truly grateful.

Involvement in the City Nature Challenge (CNC) YXE 2025 is a testament to their unwavering commitment to local biodiversity. This exciting initiative invites the community to actively participate in the documentation of local species, fostering a sense of ownership and stewardship among participants. Thanks to the support of the Saskatoon Nature Society, we are able to provide these opportunities for the people of Saskatoon, particularly the youth, who are eager to connect with the natural world in meaningful ways.

Planting the Seeds of Environmental Stewardship

Through collaborations with the Saskatoon Nature Society, we have been able to offer youth the chance to explore the outdoors through initiatives such as the City Nature Challenge, with field trips for classrooms getting out to experience nature. These projects provide not only a hands-on way to engage with the environment, but also an opportunity to develop a lifelong appreciation for the interconnectedness of nature.

In that same spirit that speaks of gratitude—“Gratitude is not a feeling, it is an action” —we see this partnership with the Saskatoon Nature Society as a living expression of our shared values. It is a partnership grounded in action—action that nurtures young minds, promotes environmental consciousness, and builds a foundation for the kind of care that our planet so desperately needs.

Each tree hugged, each wildflower identified, each moment spent in the fresh air of the afforestation areas is an expression of gratitude for the beauty that surrounds us. Through their support, the Saskatoon Nature Society is helping us create an ecosystem of learning that thrives on wonder, understanding, and care.

A Legacy of Connection

The work of the Saskatoon Nature Society is not just about the present; it is about the future. By supporting projects like the BioBlitz, where community members come together to identify and catalog the biodiversity in the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, and across the vastness of the City of Saskatoon the Society helps ensure that future generations will continue to have access to these rich natural resources. Through their educational programs and outreach, they are helping to cultivate a generation of environmental stewards who will carry forward the legacy of conservation and care.

As we reflect on our partnership, we are reminded of the timeless words of Melody Beattie: “Gratitude is the key that unlocks the fullness of life.” With the support of the Saskatoon Nature Society, we are unlocking the full potential of our community’s connection to nature. This partnership is not only about preserving the land; it is about preserving the soul of the land—its spirit, its stories, and its lessons—for generations to come.

Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Collaboration

As we move forward, we remain deeply grateful to the Saskatoon Nature Society for their continued support. Their partnership has allowed us to expand our programs, engage more youth, and inspire more people to take part in the vital work of stewarding the land. Together, we are creating a future where nature is not an afterthought, but an integral part of the way we live, learn, and grow.

Our shared mission is one of hope and renewal, and it is a mission that is brought to life through the collective efforts of those who care. Thanks to the Saskatoon Nature Society, we are moving closer to a world where every child, every adult, and every visitor to our city feels a sense of belonging in the natural world.

We offer our heartfelt thanks to the Saskatoon Nature Society for their unwavering support. May our partnership continue to grow, rooted in the shared belief that the world is a sacred place, worthy of our care, our gratitude, and our stewardship.

With Grateful Hearts,
Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.

City Nature Challenge April 25 – April 28, 2025

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