educational projects – Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life.

A Nature Walk With a Twist: iNaturalist Projects That’ll Make You Laugh

There’s no denying it—nature is full of wonders, but sometimes, it’s downright hilarious. From funny animal names to quirky behaviors, nature has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. And if you’re looking for a way to brighten your day (and maybe even get a good giggle), look no further than iNaturalist and its delightful collection of fun and quirky citizen science projects.

Whether you’re a seasoned iNat enthusiast or a newbie just beginning to explore, these whimsical projects will bring some unexpected joy and laughter into your nature walks. So, grab your phone, download the iNaturalist app, and dive into these projects that combine science with a good sense of humor! (you can also sign into iNaturalist on your computer)

1. Species with Funny English Common Names

Who says science has to be all serious and stuffy? This project is a treasure trove of hilarious and quirky animal names that will have you chuckling in no time. Have you ever met a Spotted Wobbegong? How about a Ghost Flower? These creatures’ names alone are enough to give you a good laugh, and when you dig deeper, you’ll find that they’re just as fascinating as they are funny. Want to join in? Check out the Species with Funny English Common Names project on iNaturalist, and prepare to be entertained.

2. Best. Names. Ever.

If you think the Spotted Wobbegong is a hoot, you’ll definitely want to check out the Best. Names. Ever. list on iNaturalist. This compilation is full of the most bizarre and amusing names in the animal kingdom, carefully curated by the iNaturalist community. With gems like Goosefoot, Punk Rock Spider, and Yeti Crab, you’ll be in stitches—and maybe even inspired to rename a few critters in your own backyard.

Two great lists to peruse:

Best. Names. Evar., kueda

Best. Names. Ever., seakay

3. Poof! You Can Only Insult People Using Animal Names

This one is for the truly playful. Imagine a world where the only way you can insult someone is by calling them an animal—pretty fun, right? In this lighthearted project, users share their favorite (and most ridiculous) animal-inspired insults. Think “You big Mantis Shrimp!” or “Quit acting like a Sloth!” It’s a hilarious reminder that sometimes, nature’s quirks are the best punchlines.

Find out more here

4. Nature-Inspired Comics

There’s nothing like a good laugh to brighten your day, and what better way to get that than with some hilarious, nature-inspired comics? The Nature-Inspired Comics collection on iNaturalist is the perfect blend of humor and creativity, offering a collection of funny, quirky, and downright charming illustrations that celebrate the lighter side of the natural world. Who knew plants, animals, and fungi could be so funny?

Check it out here

5. Bird Puns and Fun

Birds are already pretty funny with their funny faces and unique calls, but throw in a good bird pun, and you’ve got comedy gold. Whether it’s a Penguin doing a funny dance or a Hummingbird making you smile with its tiny flits, the Bird Puns and Fun project is the place to be if you enjoy a hearty laugh. With bird puns galore and observations from fellow nature lovers, you’ll be sure to find your funny bone in the feathers.

Don’t take my word for it, check these puns out here!

6. The City Nature Challenge (CNC)

Okay, let’s get serious for a moment—sort of. The City Nature Challenge April 25 – 28, 2025 is an exciting event that invites communities worldwide to explore and document their local nature. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of room for fun! Whether you’re tracking down wildlife in your city or taking pictures of strange plants in your neighborhood, you’re bound to encounter some amusing moments along the way. Plus, as part of a global competition, you can have a little friendly rivalry with other cities, which just adds to the excitement. Ready to participate in a bioblitz that also includes plenty of humor? Check out the CNC project on iNaturalist.

Find out more here!

7. Organisms on or Near Appropriate Signs

Let’s face it—sometimes nature just has a way of showing up in the strangest places. The Organisms on or Near Appropriate Signs project celebrates those hilarious moments when wildlife—be it a bird perched on a parking sign or a plant growing in the middle of a warning sign—decides to make itself known in a particularly funny way. Whether it’s a squirrel on a No Parking sign or a flower growing next to a Caution sign, this project reminds us that nature doesn’t always follow the rules, and that’s half the fun.

If you would like to see this kind of fun, check it out here! Join the project today!

8. Screenshots, Snaps, and Other Silly Images

Sometimes the best nature photos aren’t the perfectly composed ones—they’re the unexpected, silly moments that make you laugh. The Screenshots, Snaps, and Other Silly Images project on iNaturalist celebrates those whimsical and funny snapshots that might not be scientifically important but certainly brighten your day. From funny animal expressions to bizarre plant shapes, this project is all about enjoying the lighter side of nature.

Oh my! This might be something you need to check out.

Take a Moment to Laugh with Nature

Nature is full of surprises, and while it’s easy to get caught up in the seriousness of conservation, biodiversity, and sustainability, sometimes it’s important to step back and enjoy the sheer joy and hilarity that our natural world provides. From funny animal names to quirky observations, these iNaturalist projects offer a delightful way to engage with nature in a fun and lighthearted way.

So, the next time you head outside, be on the lookout for a Spotted Wobbegong or a Ghost Flower. Snap a silly photo, get involved in a project, and remember: nature is not just beautiful and important—it’s also downright funny!

The holiday stretch from Friday, April 19 to Sunday, April 27, 2025, is about to be a whole lot more fun. Not only is it a chance to take a well-deserved break, but it also lines up with two very special celebrations: the 10th birthday of the City Nature Challenge (CNC) from April 25 – 28, 2025, and the 55th birthday of Earth Month! That’s double the reason to celebrate all things wild, wonderful, and green.

What better way to make the most of this rare overlap than by stepping outside and soaking up nature in all its glory? Whether you’re sharing a quiet moment with loved ones or venturing off on your own, this is the perfect time to embrace nature’s quirks, beauty, and occasional oddball charm. It’s the ideal holiday to connect with the outdoors and enjoy the simple, silly, and stunning things nature has to offer. So, grab your boots, smartphone with iNaturalist loaded and binoculars—let’s go explore!

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there are free events!

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

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

BlueSky Social

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Support via Zeffy

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 and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

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 Hilarious World of Nature: A Guide to Fun iNaturalist Projects!

Have you ever looked at a moss and thought, “That looks like it’s making a face”? Or spotted a fungi that seems to be smiling back at you? Well, brace yourself for a wild ride through some of the quirkiest, most hilarious, and most delightful projects on iNaturalist! We are diving headfirst into the wackiest corners of the nature world, where humor and curiosity collide. And trust me, you’re going to want to bring your smartphone along for the adventure. The City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE 2025) is just around the corner, so it’s the perfect time to get involved, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned citizen scientist.

Join the Fun for the City Nature Challenge (April 25-28, 2025)

What is the City Nature Challenge? It’s a global event that invites participants to observe and document as many wild plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms as they can between April 25 – 28, 2025. The CNC helps bring people closer to nature, fosters community engagement, and collects vital data for scientific research—all while having ridiculous amounts of fun!

Let’s Talk About Those Silly, Silly Organisms:

Mosses with Faces: Moss doesn’t just sit there looking all green and innocent—oh no! Sometimes it’s got a whole lot of personality. Some people have observed moss patches that look like faces (grumpy faces, happy faces, you name it).
Funny Faces in Fungi: Mushrooms from the store are for dinner—the mushrooms in nature well, they’re for your imagination! Spot a fungi with a face, and you’ve got the perfect iNaturalist hilarious moment. Who knew fungi could be so expressive?
Silly Snails of the World: Snails might move slow, but they sure know how to take a funny photo. From snails in weird positions to those sporting shells with wacky designs, it’s like nature’s own little joke.
Unexpected Garden Guests: Sometimes the wildest creatures show up in your garden. Was that a frog in your petunias? Or maybe it’s a beetle wearing a tuxedo? Who knows? It’s nature’s version of a surprise party!
Animals with the Best Hairstyles: We all love a good hairdo, and nature is full of animals that have some of the most bizarre and stylish looks—whether it’s a bird rocking a fabulous feathered messed up spikes or a mammal with a wild tuft of fur that looks like it came straight from a shampoo commercial.
Insects with Outrageous Fashion Sense: Some insects truly know how to strut their stuff. Whether it’s the colors of a butterfly or the stylish wings of a beetle, there’s no shortage of eye-catching outfits in the bug world.
Backyard Photobombs: You think you’re just taking a picture of a lovely flower? Think again. Nature has a way of photobombing with critters popping into your frame in the most unexpected and hilarious ways.
The Pug Faces of the Animal Kingdom: If you’ve ever looked at an animal and thought, “That face is just like a pug!”—this is the project for you. Animal expressions can be downright hilarious, and some animals just seem to have that lovable, squishy-faced look.
Wildlife With the Best Expressions: Some animals have faces that are pure comedy gold. Whether it’s an owl with a squint or a squirrel with a look of pure surprise, these expressions will make you laugh out loud.
Bizarre Birds Doing Bizarre Things: Birds are already funny, but when they start acting odd, it’s pure gold. From dancing birds to those caught mid-sneeze, bird-watching has never been so entertaining.

Fun Projects You’ll Definitely Want to Join:

Funny Observations
Check out this amazing project, dedicated to documenting funny observations of all kinds! Funny Observations on iNaturalist is a community-driven catalog of hilarious and weird moments in nature, so get your camera ready for those jaw-dropping “what did I just see?” moments.

Funny Scientific Names
Did you know there are some seriously funny scientific names for plants and animals? Like Spongiforma squarepantsii or Otocinclus batmani. These names are so silly you can’t help but laugh. Explore more at the Funny Scientific Names project.

Sussy Baka Quandale Dingle Amogus
This one’s mostly a joke, but hey—if you want to share some memes or post serious observations while having a laugh, you might just enjoy this project. Who said citizen science couldn’t be fun and absurd? Check it out here.

Made-Up Animal Games
Yes, you read that right. There’s a project for made-up animal games, where people create and share games involving animals, inspired from the photos of animals while using iNaturalist. Who knew playing games with the photos of animals could be this fun? Join here.

How to Get Involved in the City Nature Challenge

Download the iNaturalist App: It’s super easy. You can start recording your observations right from your smartphone. There are also tutorials to help guide you through the process of submitting your observations. iNaturalist app (Apple) | iNaturalist app (Android).
Observe and Document: Get outside and start observing! You can capture animals, plants, fungi, or even fungi faces with hilarious expressions. The possibilities are endless, and the fun is contagious.
Identify Organisms: Even if you don’t know what you’re seeing, the iNaturalist community is there to help. You can also help identify other people’s observations, contributing to global biodiversity documentation!

So, What Is the CNC?
The City Nature Challenge is a global citizen science event where participants in cities around the world record the most species they can find during a set period. This year, the event will run from April 25–28, 2025, and you’ll be contributing to a greater cause by gathering valuable data for scientific and conservation purposes. And guess what? It’s also an amazing chance to have fun with your friends and family while documenting the weird and wonderful creatures in your own backyard. Don’t forget—it’s during the Easter Break (April 19-27, 2025)!

Get Ready to Laugh, Observe, and Have Fun!
If you haven’t downloaded the iNaturalist app yet, what are you waiting for? It’s time to explore the wild world around you, make some hilarious discoveries, and contribute to real scientific data. Whether you’re spotting bizarre birds or the next moss face, the fun never stops with iNaturalist. And with the City Nature Challenge coming up, it’s the perfect time to start.

Who knows, maybe you’ll find that “funny” little organism you’ve been looking for. You could be the next person to spot an animal with the best hairstyle, or the wackiest wildlife expression. Whatever it is, let’s get out there and start documenting. There’s a world of wonders—and laughs—waiting for you.
Now go ahead—download the iNaturalist app, join the CNC, and let’s make Earth Month’s 55th birthday one to remember! 🌿🌎🎉

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and, Whoa! There are also free events! Free events in a forest. A forest in Saskatoon. NO way, it doesn’t get much better than this.

BioDivercity Challenge free iNaturalist App — City Nature Challenge free iNaturalist App

City Nature Challenge free iNaturalist 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

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

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

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

BlueSky Social

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Support via Zeffy

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 and Join the plastic-recycle challenge!

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

Embracing Autumn Equinox Day: Celebrating Seasonal Shifts with Indigenous Perspectives

As the sun crosses the equator on September 22nd, marking the Autumn Equinox, we witness a unique moment of balance when day and night are equal. This astronomical event is not just a transition into fall but an opportunity to reflect on the diverse ways different cultures perceive and celebrate the changing seasons. In particular, Indigenous Cree cultures offer a rich and nuanced understanding of the seasonal cycle, revealing a profound connection between people and nature.

Indigenous Cree Seasonal Perspectives

In many Cree communities, the year unfolds through six distinct seasons, each with its own rhythms and significance. This perspective contrasts with the conventional four-season model and highlights a deep-rooted relationship with the natural world.

Pre-Spring (March and April): Known as the time when the moon is reflected on the ice, this period is a precursor to the rebirth of nature. March, or “otter month,” and April mark the gradual melting of ice and the promise of renewal.

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 — Commemorate #NationalForestWeek “Maple Leaf Day” or National Tree Day in Canada

American Elm Ulmus Americana autumn leaf — Commemorate #NationalForestWeek “Maple Leaf Day” or National Tree Day in Canada

Spring (May and June): Spring, or “sīkwan,” is a time of awakening and growth. May is celebrated as the month of flowers, while June is recognized for the abundance of strawberries, symbolizing the bounty of nature’s resurgence.

Summer (July and August): As the days stretch towards the summer solstice on June 21st, summer, or “nīpin,” brings forth the arrival of fruit and the maturing of young animals. July is the month of raspberries, and August witnesses young birds learning to fly.

Autumn (September): September, or “takwākin,” is marked by the falling leaves and the breeding season of porcupines. The Autumn Equinox on September 21st signifies a time of balance before the daylight hours begin to wane, leading into the winter months.

Pre-Winter (November and December): The transition into winter, or “mikiskāw,” is characterized by the return of snow and the preparation of animals for the colder months. November and December are times of trapping and utilizing every part of harvested animals.

Winter (January and February): Winter, or “pipon,” sets in with full force. January is the longest month, and February, known as Groundhog Month, continues the deep winter phase until the days begin to lengthen again.

Interestingly, this nuanced view of seasons is mirrored in other Indigenous cultures, such as the Noongar people of Australia, who celebrate six distinct seasons:

Birak (December – January)

Bunuru (February – March)

Djeran (April – May)Makuru (June – July)

Djilba (August – September)

Kambarang (October – November)

Similarly, the Woodland Cree recognize six seasons, reflecting a detailed observation of environmental changes:

Break Up (mithoskamin)

Spring (sīkwan)

Summer (nīpin)

Fall (takwākin)

Freeze-Up (mikiskāw)

Winter (pipon)

To honor the Autumn Equinox and connect with these seasonal traditions, consider engaging in activities that celebrate the transition and reflect on the natural world:

K-2 Students: Take a walk to observe fall changes. Collect leaves, acorns, and seeds to create art projects like collages or crayon rubbings. If a walk isn’t possible, guide an imaginary forest journey, focusing on sensory experiences and changes.Grades 3-5: Investigate the causes of seasonal changes and their impact on daily life. Explore when the autumn equinox occurs in your area and discuss the seasonal adjustments families make.Grades 6-8: Research why leaves change color and create collages reflecting autumn hues. Additionally, test the myth of balancing an egg on the equinox, and analyze the results to understand the scientific principles behind it.

The Autumn Equinox serves as a potent reminder of the cyclical nature of our environment and the deep connections Indigenous cultures have with the seasons. By exploring these traditions and engaging with seasonal changes, we honor the profound wisdom embedded in diverse cultural perspectives and enrich our understanding of the natural world.

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

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

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

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

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

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

Celebrating Terry Fox Day: Inspiring Young Heroes in Saskatoon

September 18: A Day to Remember Terry Fox Every year on September 18th, Canadians come together to honor the legacy of Terry Fox, a true national hero whose courage and determination left an indelible mark on the country. Born in Winnipeg and raised in British Columbia, Terry Fox was diagnosed with bone cancer at 18. After the amputation of his right leg, he embarked on his “Marathon of Hope,” a cross-country run to raise funds for cancer research.

Although he had to stop after 143 days and over 5,000 kilometers due to the cancer spreading to his lungs, Terry’s relentless spirit and dedication continue to inspire.

In Saskatoon, we have the opportunity to integrate Terry Fox’s legacy into our local curriculum and celebrate his contributions alongside the natural beauty of our city. This year, let’s engage students with meaningful activities that connect Terry Fox’s story with the local environment and heroes like Bruce Gordon the inspiration for #BeLikeBruce trail in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, another champion who made significant contributions to cancer research.

Sept 24 clean up at both Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and at George Genereux Urban Regional Park, Saskatoon The Clean Green Community Scene — George Genereux (March 1, 1935 – April 10, 1989) photo courtesy SPL b-8759

George Genereux (March 1, 1935 – April 10, 1989) photo courtesy SPL b-8759

Grades K-2: Understanding Real HeroesFor our youngest students, introduce the concept of heroism through Terry Fox’s story and local landmarks. Start by discussing what makes someone a hero. Highlight Terry Fox’s bravery and his fight against cancer, contrasting it with fictional superheroes. Engage students in a simple but impactful art project:

Activity: Create a “Hero Hat” or a “Hero Medal” using materials like construction paper, markers, and stickers. Ask students to decorate their hats with symbols representing what makes someone a hero. These could be hearts for kindness, stars for bravery, or other symbols they feel represent heroism. Have students wear their hats as they share what they believe makes Terry Fox a hero and how they can be heroes in their own lives by doing small acts of kindness.

Grades 3-5: Exploring Heroism and Community For students in Grades 3-5, dive deeper into the characteristics of heroes and integrate local knowledge about Saskatoon’s afforestation areas. The afforestation area namesakes; Richard St. Barbe Baker, George Genereux, Bruce Gordon, and Benjamin Thomas (B.T.) Chappell were all local heroes. email friendsafforestation@gmail.com for more biographical information.

Activity: Organize a “Hero’s Trail” project in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or George Genereux Urban Regional Park. Students will create illustrated maps of the trail, incorporating both information about Terry Fox and the natural features of the park. Students could hang poems and pictures on biodegradable paper for inspiration. They can write about how Terry Fox’s perseverance mirrors the importance of preserving and protecting natural spaces. This project will help them understand heroism in both historical and environmental contexts.

Grades 6-8: Reflecting on Heroism and Environmental Stewardship Students in Grades 6-8 can engage in more complex reflections on what constitutes true heroism and its connections to environmental stewardship.

Activity: Conduct a research and creative writing project titled “Heroes and Nature.” Students will research how Terry Fox and local figures like Bruce Gordon have contributed to society and then create a multi-media presentation that connects these contributions to the importance of environmental conservation. They will explore how preserving spaces like the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park contributes to the community’s well-being, much like how cancer research contributes to fighting disease.

Additionally, students will reflect on George Genereux’s athletic prowess. Although he was a gold medal Olympic athlete and had the opportunity to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Genereux chose to follow a career in helping others. He became a professor of radiology and contributed significantly to the medical field contributing to the fight on the crippling disease of Ankylosing Spondylitis. Students will explore how Genereux’s achievements and his decision to focus on a career that benefited others demonstrate heroism in different forms.

Additional Activity: Have students write a short story or poem about a hero who works to protect both people and the environment. They should incorporate elements from their research about Terry Fox, Bruce Gordon, George Genereux and the importance of local natural spaces.

School-Wide Activities: Encourage the entire school to participate in Terry Fox Day by organizing a range of activities:

School Run: Host a school-wide Terry Fox Run or Walk around the school grounds or in local parks. Set goals for distances and encourage students to gather pledges for cancer research. Make it a fun event with music and refreshments, ensuring all health and safety protocols are followed.

Community Involvement: Engage with local organizations and invite guest speakers, such as representatives from the Terry Fox Foundation or local environmental groups, to talk about the impact of Terry Fox’s legacy and the importance of environmental stewardship.

Celebrating Local Heroes: As we commemorate Terry Fox Day, let us also honor the contributions of local heroes like Bruce Gordon and recognize the importance of our natural spaces in Saskatoon. By integrating these themes into our curriculum and activities, we not only celebrate the legacy of Terry Fox but also inspire our students to be heroes in their own right—both through community service and environmental stewardship.For more information about participating in the Terry Fox Run or planning classroom activities, visit the Terry Fox Foundation’s website and explore the resources available. Let’s make this September 18th a day of reflection, celebration, and inspiration for all.