Living in Harmony with Moose: Safe Encounters and the Name the Moose Contest

Living in Harmony with Moose: Safe Encounters and the Name the Moose Contest

The majestic moose (Alces alces) has long been an iconic symbol of the wild forests and wetlands of Saskatchewan. As these giant herbivores make their way through the woods of Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (RSBBAA) and George Genereux Urban Regional Park, it’s important for residents and visitors to understand how to live harmoniously with these magnificent creatures. This year, we are excited to announce that a female moose has recently been spotted in the west side of RSBBAA, and a moose sighting recently on the east side of the park. Previously, a moose family even overwintered in George Genereux Park. With sightings becoming more common, it’s the perfect time to remind ourselves of the best ways to coexist with these wild animals while also participating in a fun and educational event: our Name the Moose contest!

Understanding Moose and Safe Interactions

Moose are typically solitary animals, known for their peaceful nature. However, they can become agitated or aggressive if they feel threatened, particularly during the spring when they are protective of their calves. The gestation period for moose is around 230 days, meaning that moose calves are usually born in late May or early June. This makes it especially important to give mother moose and their newborns plenty of space during this time. When you spot a moose in the wild, keep a respectful distance and observe from afar.

Moose can become aggressive if approached too closely, especially by dogs. Dog and moose interactions can be dangerous, as a moose will often perceive a dog as a threat to its young. Always keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas known to have moose activity, and avoid walking near them during the spring when they are most protective.

If you encounter a moose, remember to stay calm and slowly back away. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the moose. Moose typically don’t chase humans but will defend themselves or their young if they feel cornered.

The Name the Moose Contest

To make things even more exciting, we’re asking for your help to name our local moose! This is a fun and engaging way for the community to connect with the wildlife in our parks and learn more about these incredible animals. Currently, the names that have been suggested for the female moose include:

  • Meadow
  • Shadow (She moved quietly through the bush in George Genereux like a shadow)
  • Melvin (Melvin the Moose!)
  • Nahale (meaning “forest” in Native American, for a beautiful baby boy)
  • Majestic!
  • Maggie

If we have inadvertently missed any Moose names, please email, or post on FB here

You can participate by submitting your name suggestion or voting on the names you like best. To cast your vote, visit our Facebook page, where we’ll be asking for your input on which name should be chosen for our local moose.

For the Name the Moose contest, we will be asking these five questions:

What would be your advice for a moose encounter?

Have you ever encountered a moose anywhere?

Why was the person Richard St. Barbe Baker notable?

Why was the person George Genereux significant?

What wild animals have you seen in either Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, or in George Genereux Urban Regional Park?

Join us for the grand finale of the Name the Moose Event at the upcoming Jane’s Walk:

  • When: Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM
  • Where: To support the likes on FB, During this event at the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (RSBBAA), we’ll be discussing moose behavior, habitat, and safety tips for living with these majestic creatures, and of course, we’ll add to the existing FB vote results and at the event or shortly thereafter announcing the results of the Name the Moose contest.

Tips for Safe Encounters

  • Keep Your Distance: Always stay at least 30 meters (roughly the length of three school buses) away from any moose you encounter. If you need to pass, retreat slowly and keep an obstacle, such as a tree or vehicle, between you and the moose.
  • Stay Calm: If you spot a moose while walking or biking, don’t approach it. Stay calm, and slowly back away. Moose are generally not aggressive but may defend themselves or their young if they feel threatened.
  • Leash Your Dog: Dogs can provoke moose, so always keep your dog on a leash. In some cases, moose have been known to charge when they perceive a dog as a threat to their calves.
  • Drive Cautiously: Moose can be hard to see, especially at dawn or dusk. If you’re driving in areas known for moose sightings, slow down and remain vigilant.
  • Avoid Feeding Moose: Feeding moose is illegal and can cause them to become reliant on humans for food. Never feed wildlife, and encourage others to do the same.

Protecting Moose Habitats

Moose rely on a variety of plants for food. In the warmer months, they feed on aquatic vegetation and shrubs, while in winter, they turn to woody browse, such as twigs and young trees. Understanding their food sources helps us appreciate their role in the ecosystem and the need for conservation.

Human expansion and climate change pose risks to moose populations. Warmer temperatures can alter the types of vegetation that thrive in moose habitats, which can impact their survival. Preserving forests and wetlands is essential to ensuring moose populations remain healthy and thrive.

How You Can Help

  • Report Sightings: If you see a moose in urban areas, especially near public spaces like playgrounds, contact local wildlife authorities.
  • Respect Their Space: Understand that moose are wild animals and need their space. Always observe from a distance to prevent any distress to the animal.
  • Support Conservation Efforts: Support organizations and initiatives dedicated to preserving moose habitats and educating the public on safe interactions.

Conclusion

Living in harmony with moose is about understanding their behavior, respecting their space, and taking steps to ensure safe encounters. As we celebrate the moose that have made their way to our urban parks, let’s remember that we are part of a shared environment, and together, we can help protect these magnificent animals. Don’t forget to join us at the Jane’s Walk on May 3, 2025, to continue the vote on the winning name for our local moose and learn more about these amazing creatures. Your participation matters, and together, we can make a difference!

For more information, please visit our Facebook page or contact us at friendsafforestation@gmail.com

Friends of Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Earn Accreditation to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Public Announcement:

Jan. 22, 2025 Saskatoon, SK News release

Friends of Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Earn Accreditation to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
We are thrilled to announce that the Friends of Saskatoon Afforestation Areas (FSAA) has officially obtained accreditation to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)!
This prestigious recognition affirms FSAA’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and advocacy for global ecological preservation. As part of this accreditation, FSAA will now have enhanced opportunities to:
• Contribute to UNEP’s global environmental agenda, policies, and programs.
• Engage in international dialogues to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.
• Collaborate with like-minded organizations and leaders to foster innovative solutions for a greener planet.
• Achieve FSAA Advocacy strategic objectives
The accreditation is a significant milestone that reflects the tireless efforts of FSAA in safeguarding and rejuvenating Saskatoon’s afforestation areas, transforming them into havens for biodiversity and sustainable urban green spaces.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners, volunteers, and supporters who have been instrumental in achieving this honor. Together, we continue to envision a future where local action inspires global change.
Stay tuned for more updates as FSAA takes bold steps to amplify its impact on the global stage!
For more information, visit https://friendsareas.ca/

Sustainability #UNEPAccreditation #ClimateAction #Afforestation #Biodiversity #FriendsOfSaskatoon

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.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

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

““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

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.

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

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

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

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

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. 🌱🌍


Contact us today! Friendsareas.ca friendsafforestation@gmail.com

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

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

““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

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