Tag: conservation projects

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

BlueSky Social

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

Gratitude to Wild About Saskatoon

We, the keepers of the afforestation,
who tend the green places where the trees hum,
and the wild grasses bow in the wind,
we rise up in quiet awe,
watching you—Wild About Saskatoon—
a steady breath of solidarity,
unfolding like the first tender leaf of spring.

You, whose hearts are rooted deep in this land,
whose eyes, trained to see the smallest of wonders,
offer your hands in friendship,
in support, in partnership.
How quietly you have worked beside us,
walking in the brush and the quiet places,
guiding the Saskatoon nature discoveries
with such patient care,
with such joy,
so that all may see what we see
in the tangled roots of trees,
in the rustle of leaves,
in the flight of birds.

From April 25 to April 28, 2025,
we will walk together,
side by side with you,
along trails where the sun filters
through the new leaves,
where the river dances over the rocks,
and the world whispers its secrets.
We, the organizers,
your fellow dreamers and protectors of wild things,
hold our gratitude for the ways
you have brought this vision to life.
Your tireless hands have lifted the heart of this project,
allowing it to bloom into something more—
a community, a shared experience,
a celebration of the creatures and the earth
that sustain us all.

Wild About Saskatoon,
you have shown us what it means
to walk not in isolation but in partnership,
to listen not just to the wind but to the world,
to offer ourselves in service to the living pulse
of nature that beats through this city.
You’ve given us the strength to continue,
to carry this challenge forward,
to celebrate the small and the great,
the known and the unseen,
the creatures who crawl,
the birds who sing,
the trees who stretch toward the sky.

We, too, are honored—
honored to stand beside you,
to share this path,
to lift this call into the hands of the people of Saskatoon.
For in your spirit, we have found
a like-hearted kinship,
a mutual love for this land,
a deep and unspoken connection.

So here is our thanks,
our deepest, most heartfelt gratitude,
for your unwavering support,
for your love of nature,
for the way you make this world shine
a little brighter,
a little kinder,
with each step you take.

Together, we will celebrate,
together we will walk,
together we will see
and preserve
this great and wild city.

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

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

BlueSky Social

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

City Nature Challenge April 25 – April 28, 2025

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

Gratitude to Saskatoon Nature Society: Cultivating the Next Generation of Nature Stewards

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

Join the Plastic-Recycle Challenge!

🌿🌍 Recycling for a Greener Future! 🌍🌿

Did you know that your recycling donations can help protect nature AND support amazing environmental education programs? 🌱♻️ When you donate your bottles, cans, and more to Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, environmental charity, you’re helping fund crucial projects in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park! 🌳💚

🌱 Why should YOU donate? Because your recycling goes beyond just cleaning up! 🧹💚 It’s an investment in a cleaner, greener future for all of us. 🌿 When you donate, you’re supporting programs like Jane’s Walk, National Forest Week, and more! 🌳

🎁 PLUS you’ll receive a charitable tax receipt for your generous donation! 💸
Let’s make every bottle count—recycle, donate, and help protect our natural spaces! 🌍✨
💚 Join us today and make a difference! 💚

#RecycleForNature #EcoFriendly #GreenFuture #RecyclingForGood #Saskatoon #AfforestationAreas #ProtectOurPlanet #EcoWarrior #SustainableLiving #EnvironmentalEducation #DonateForNature #NationalForestWeek #CityNatureChallenge #ArborWeek #JaneWalk #ParticipACTION #MakeADifference 🌱🌳🌍

🌍 Support the Planet and Make a Difference with Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas! 🌱
Are you ready to make an impact? Take advantage of the EcoFriendly Recycling Pick Up Service by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas and help protect our environment today. With our fast, efficient, and eco-friendly recycling pick-up, you don’t even have to leave your home! Simply trust us to handle your bottles, cans, recycling and more—saving you time and reducing waste!

When you use our service, you’ll not only keep valuable items out of landfills but also directly support the preservation of over 60 species at risk in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park. Your donations help fund crucial environmental education programs, promoting awareness for a sustainable future. Plus, you’ll receive a charitable tax receipt for your contribution!

Don’t worry about standing in line at the depot. We come to you, ensuring that recycling is convenient and hassle-free. Your recycling efforts help enhance environmental protection and education services in our community.

Did you know that recycling with SARCAN now includes paint, electronics, batteries, flexible plastic packaging, foam packaging, non-deposit glass, and even bottle caps? It’s never been easier to do your part for the environment!

Support a greener tomorrow—donate your recycling today and know that you’re making a lasting difference. Thank you for choosing to be a part of the solution. Together, we can build a cleaner, more sustainable future. 🌱🌍

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

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support via a recycling bottle donation and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

🌲 Calling All Canadians!🌲

🌲 Calling All Canadians! Join the GivingTuesday Movement with Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas! 🌲

This GivingTuesday, Tuesday, December 3, 2024, join Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas in a global movement of generosity, unity, and giving back to the environment and our community. YouTube Video

It’s simple: every act of generosity counts. Whether you give your time, your energy, or a financial gift, you can make a meaningful impact. Together, we can nurture the natural spaces we love, from the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area to the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, and make them places where wildlife, people, and nature thrive.

Get Involved – Here’s how YOU can give on GivingTuesday:

1. Give Your Time – Volunteer for a Greener Tomorrow!

Become part of the vibrant community that helps protect, preserve, and share the beauty of Saskatoon’s afforestation areas. We have many volunteer opportunities that need your help:

Trail Maintenance Volunteer – Ensure our trails remain accessible and safe for all, from families to nature enthusiasts.
Community Clean-Up Volunteer – Help keep our afforestation areas free of litter and pollutants, safeguarding the environment for generations to come.
Invasive Species Removal – Join the battle to protect native plants and wildlife by early detection and rapid response by the iMapSkInvasives team to remove harmful invasive species from our precious habitats.
Species at Risk Monitoring – Monitor and protect vulnerable species that call our afforestation areas home – You cannot protect what you don’t know.

Whether you’re an environmental enthusiast, a community leader, or someone passionate about education, we have a role for you! Your contributions help keep these natural spaces safe, beautiful, and accessible for everyone.

2. Give Your Knowledge – Become an Educator for Nature!

Help spread the message of conservation through our educational programs:

Field Tour Guide – Lead groups of schoolchildren, tourists, and community members on educational tours, sharing the history and importance of our afforestation areas.
Educational Program Leader – Teach the next generation about the importance of preserving our natural world through hands-on workshops.
Cultural Heritage Programs – Share the rich cultural history of the First Nations and Métis communities that have cared for this land for generations.

Your time and expertise can inspire others to care for the environment too!

3. Give Financially – Your Donation Makes a Difference!

A generous donation on GivingTuesday goes directly toward projects that protect and enhance Saskatoon’s afforestation areas. With your support, we can:

Fund forest improvements, habitat restoration, and species monitoring.
Expand our educational programs to inspire future environmental stewards.
Continue to foster community involvement in conservation efforts.
Support field trips to the afforestation areas and bioblitzes.

Every dollar you give helps us maintain and improve our beloved natural spaces.

4. Give Creativity – Support Eco-Art Projects!

If you love creativity and the environment, consider supporting Eco-Art Projects. Help raise awareness through art that celebrates nature and its preservation. Whether it’s an eco-friendly sculpture, an outdoor installation, or nature-inspired crafts, these projects bring together art and activism in a unique way.

How to Get Involved:

Donate: Visit http://www.friendsareas.ca/ donate to make a contribution to our projects.
Volunteer: Sign up for one of our volunteer opportunities at https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com/member-form/
Share on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/friendsareas Use the hashtag #GivingTuesdaySaskatoon and tag us @FriendsAreas to spread the word and encourage your friends and family to join the movement!

Together, we can help preserve Saskatoon’s urban forests, restore habitats, and ensure that these spaces remain a vibrant part of our community for generations to come. 🌍

This GivingTuesday, let’s come together to give back to the land that gives so much to us. Whether you volunteer, donate, or spread the word, your generosity will have a lasting impact.

Join the Global Movement.Unleash the Power of Giving.

#GivingTuesday #SaskatoonAfforestation #GiveBack #NatureIsLife #Volunteer #Donate #GivingTuesday2024 #FriendsOfTheSaskatoonAfforestationAreas

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

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

Engaging Communities: A Closer Look at the Big Backyard BioBlitz

A massive shoutout to the 9,700+ bioblitzers from across Canada who made last year’s event our biggest yet! 🙌 Together, we snapped photos and recorded audio clips of an incredible 5,700+ species, contributing to a whopping 58,000+ observations of plants, mammals, birds, insects, and more. 📸 From suburban backyards to urban parks, cottages to campsites, farms to wilderness areas, our community science effort was truly remarkable. 🌍

Red Winged Blackbird. Chappell Marsh. West Swale Wetlands. Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK, CA

Yellow-headed Blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) This is the brightly colored male. The female of the species will use the cattails, reeds or rushes standing above the surface of the water to weave a nest, and lay 2-5 eggs. — Red Winged Blackbird. Chappell Marsh. West Swale Wetlands. Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK, CA

Thanks to your efforts, the NCC’s 2023 Big Backyard BioBlitz saw 5,800+ more observations and 480+ more species spotted than in 2022. 🌳🦋 Here’s what some of our bioblitzers had to say:

👉 “What a wonderful time getting to know our local plants, fungi, insects, birds, and animals with my daughter! We spent a lovely weekend outside getting the next generation excited about conservation, and it was an absolute blast!” – Fred Barry, Saskatchewan

👉 “This is the second year we have participated in the Big Backyard BioBlitz. Although we recorded different items this year, we became more aware of the plant species in our area… It is an enjoyable activity and one in which you can involve yourself as much as you wish and learn as much as you desire.” – Chris Pocock, British Columbia

Don’t miss out on the fun in 2024! Sign up now to stay updated on upcoming events like the 2024 Big Backyard BioBlitz! 🌱 #BioBlitzSuccess #CommunityScience #NatureConservation

Sign up here: [https://www.natureconservancy.ca/en/what-you-can-do/events/2023BBB-success.html]

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

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support using Canada Helps

Together We Move! ParticipACTION Community Challenge Come to Nature Come to Life.

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

Preserving Diversity

Today marks Biodiversity Day, a moment for us to pause and consider the intricate web of life that surrounds us. It’s a call to action, reminding us that the steps we take today echo into tomorrow, shaping the fate of the wildlife and habitats we strive to conserve. As we delve into the rich tapestry of species within the Afforestation Areas, let’s reflect on the significance of each creature and plant, and the role they play in preserving our planet’s biodiversity.

Preserving Diversity: A Call to Action on Biodiversity Day”

For World Environment Day June 5 join us for: “Every Species Counts: Join the Movement for Biodiversity Conservation!”

In our exploration of the Afforestation Areas, we encounter a staggering array of species, each with its own story of resilience and adaptation. From the elusive Little Brown Bat to the majestic American White Pelican, and from the delicate Celery Looper Moth to the towering American Elm, these creatures and plants are integral to the delicate balance of our ecosystems. Yet, many face threats of extinction or decline, underscoring the urgency of our conservation efforts.

From Prairie Lands to Forests: Embracing Biodiversity in Saskatchewan’s Afforestation Areas

Diverse Species, One Mission: Protecting Our Natural Heritage Together!

As we delve deeper into the diverse array of species within the Afforestation Areas, we’re reminded of the interconnectedness of all life forms. Just as biodiversity has evolved in different geographic regions around the world, so too have cultures flourished and thrived in their respective homelands. This interconnectedness underscores the importance of unity amidst diversity, as we work together to safeguard the future of our planet for generations to come.

Reflective Musings:

How do the conservation statuses of various species within the Afforestation Areas reflect broader trends in biodiversity conservation efforts globally?
What role do community engagement and citizen science initiatives play in monitoring and protecting species at risk in Saskatchewan’s Afforestation Areas?
How do cultural narratives surrounding endangered species like the American White Pelican or the American Elm contribute to public awareness and support for conservation efforts?
In what ways can international collaborations and partnerships enhance biodiversity conservation efforts in Saskatchewan’s Afforestation Areas?
How can individuals and communities contribute to biodiversity conservation in their local environments, drawing inspiration from the diverse array of species within the Afforestation Areas?
Can you contribute a donation or volunteer with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas?

Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), species at risk

Horned Grebe Podiceps Auritus — Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), species at risk

The Great Canadian Giving Challenge June 1-30 where every $1 donated helps our charity, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, win one of two prizes of $10,000! Raising Awareness, Changing Lives We educate the public about the rich geological, natural, and cultural heritage of the areas and their ecological importance as places of rich biodiversity and semi-wildness within city limits.. Every $1 you give in June enters us for a chance to win $10,000 ! Donate now

Prairie Forest Guide App

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

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

Navigating Earth Week 2024 for a Sustainable Future

“Planet vs. Plastics: “Navigating Earth Week 2024 April 14-22, 2024 for a Sustainable Future”

In our era of the Anthropocene, where human influence rivals natural forces, Earth Week takes center stage with a crucial theme: Planet vs. Plastics. The impact of plastic on our environment, as highlighted by David Farrier, underscores the urgent need for collective action. The emergence of the noosphere or Anthropocene, a geological epoch shaped significantly by human activities, prompts us to reflect on our role in modifying the Earth’s elemental cycles.

City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area versus YQRCNC Regina and area in a mini SK challenge — City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area

Plastics, symbolic of this new age, serve as both a marker of humanity’s ascendancy and a potential threat to ecosystems ill-equipped to handle their presence. The undying quality of plastic, aptly termed the “quality of the undead” by Heather Davis, accentuates its ability to seal off and endure. As we face a plastic crisis predicted to rival climate change, our choices and actions during Earth Week become crucial.

A startling statistic reveals that millions plastic bottles are purchased globally every minute, contributing to an environmental crisis surpassing even climate change. Efforts to collect and recycle these bottles struggle to keep pace with their escalating use, resulting in a significant portion – over half of these- polluting our oceans. As responsible citizens, a simple act like dropping off recyclables for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, using Drop and Go number 106100594, or contacting them for pick up, can contribute , and double down on your efforts on environmental conservation and climate action.

Earth Week isn’t just about the amazing 5 R’s (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle); it’s an opportunity to become earth guardians and delve into citizen science to contribute to the City Nature Challenge 2024 in Saskatoon. We cannot protect what we don’t know! Join the vibrant, collective effort on iNaturalist and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders during the challenge’s two stages. Capture images of diverse life forms and identify discovered species, culminating in a shared experience of discovery and renewal on May 6, 2024.

While participating in the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge, go the extra mile—pick up any plastic or litter that doesn’t belong in nature. Let Earth Week 2024 be a celebration of harmony, conservation, and a commitment to building a sustainable future. It’s a Win-Win for the planet and us.

Participating in the City Nature Challenge on the free app iNaturalist is a tangible way to take action:

April 26 – April 29, 2024: Capture images of diverse wildlife, documenting the richness of our surroundings. Snap pictures of wild plants, insects, birds, mushrooms and animals or signs of life which represent things that were once living or represent something that is living, like scat, owl pellets, animal and bird tracks, skeletons, snakeskins, bones,roadkill, feathers, and seashells.
April 30 – May 5, 2024: Identify the discovered species, aiding in creating an inventory of biodiversity.
What is it? a YouTube Video

Results unveiled on May 6, 2024, will foster a shared experience of discovery and renewal.

With thanks to our sponsors and supporters SaskPower, SaskTel, Saskatoon Nature Society, Wild About Saskatoon, Varsity View Community Association, Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

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

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support using Canada Helps

City Nature Challenge Saskatoon 2024 CNCYXE2024

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

Thank you to SNS for sponsorship

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas extend heartfelt appreciation to the Saskatoon Nature Society for their generous sponsorship, which enables youth and classrooms to explore the rich biodiversity of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. This remarkable semi-wilderness green space, with its unique ecotone blending boreal forest and moist mixed prairie grasslands, offers an unparalleled setting for educational experiences. Our guided nature walk, made possible through this partnership, showcases the area’s natural wonders and fosters a deep appreciation for our environment. Through hands-on exploration, participants gain insights into the interconnectedness of ecosystems and are inspired to become stewards of our planet.

The Saskatoon Nature Society (SNS) is a revered charitable organization established in 1955, dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation of nature. Their objectives include promoting nature appreciation, sharing experiences, and encouraging a deeper knowledge of the natural world through observation and education. The Society is a leading advocate for the preservation of plant and animal habitats, regularly engaging in conservation efforts. Monthly indoor programs featuring guest speakers, alongside birding, botany, and butterfly field trips, and identification classes are organized by the SNS.

Their partnership with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, a collaboration which extends their mission to support nature conservation projects further. The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas’ primary focus is on the conservation, protection, and promotion of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. These semi-wilderness green spaces is a unique blend of boreal forest and moist mixed prairie grasslands, offering an unparalleled setting for educational experiences. Through this partnership, the SNS helps enable youth and classrooms to explore this rich biodiversity.

The collaboration with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas is realized through a guided nature walk. This walk serves as an interactive and educational experience, providing insights into the interconnectedness of ecosystems and inspiring participants to become stewards of the planet. The SNS’s sponsorship and support play a pivotal role in making these experiences accessible, helping to instill a sense of environmental responsibility and appreciation among participants.

The Saskatoon Nature Society (SNS) has demonstrated a profound commitment to environmental education and conservation through its sponsorship of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area. In addition to sponsorship, the SNS has contributed to the awareness and understanding of the efforts of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area by publishing an article ion “Nature Notes” detailing the history and accomplishments of FSAAI.

In conclusion, the Saskatoon Nature Society’s support and collaboration with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area exemplify their shared commitment to environmental education and conservation. Their partnership underscores the importance of community involvement and collaboration in protecting our natural resources for future generations.

Thank you to the Saskatoon Nature Society for their dedication and support of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area. Your partnership has made a significant impact on the preservation of this natural gem and has furthered environmental education and conservation efforts in our community. We are grateful for your continued commitment to the environment and for helping us make a difference for future generations.

Saskatoon Nature Society: Leading the Way in Environmental Education and Appreciation

iNaturalist CNCYXE2024 project page

BioBlitz Apr 26, 2024 – Apr 29, 2024 with hosted events

City Nature Challenge Nature Walk

Species of concern A listing of 62 species found in the afforestation areas, including three of high likelihood to be found.

Tree Species in the afforestation areas A listing of Tree Species in the Afforestation Areas. Did you know that Ten tree species were afforested (Planted)? Did you know that there are 40 tree species in total? guided nature walk.

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

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

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

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

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

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Support using Canada Helps