Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. George Genereux Urban Regional Park. Humboldt Broncos Memorial Forest. Come to Nature. Come to Life. Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestationk Areas Inc. friendsareas.ca
American Crow Chappell Marsh. West Swale Wetlands. Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK, CA iNaturalist Observation with smart phone connecting with nature, supporting vital conservation research worldwide.SmartPhone nature Photo using the free iNaturalist app
Did you know that here in Saskatoon, on the very first day of the City Nature Challenge, in these early spring months with amazing temperatures, we already had 188 observations of organisms, spotted 94 different species, with the help of 30 identifiers and 21 keen observers? What an incredible start — and it’s all thanks to everyday heroes like you who are stepping outside and tuning into the world around them. What a great time to be outside connecting to nature!
Now it’s your turn to join the adventure! 🌎✨ Download the free iNaturalist app and be part of this exciting global event. Every photo and sound you record — whether it’s the cheerful call of a Robin, the sweet song of a Meadowlark, a busy ant on the move, a fluttering butterfly, a playful squirrel, or the delicate shimmer of a spider web — helps scientists, conservationists, and our whole community understand and protect the biodiversity we treasure.
Be the voice for nature today, Sunday, and Monday (April 28)! Together, we can celebrate Saskatoon’s wild side and show the world just how vibrant our corner of the Earth truly is. 🌿📸🎶
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible supporters: SaskPower, SaskTel, SaskEnergy, the Saskatoon Nature Society, and Wild About Saskatoon. Your generosity and commitment to environmental stewardship make events like the City Nature Challenge possible. Together, we are fostering a stronger connection between people and the natural world, inspiring a new generation of nature lovers and citizen scientists. Thank you for helping us celebrate and protect the beauty that surrounds us!
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
There’s no better way to spend a weekend in April than diving into the wild, unpredictable world of nature—and the City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE) offers just the perfect excuse to do so. From Friday, April 25, to Sunday, April 28, 2025, which overlaps your family’s Easter break, you’ll have the chance to connect with your local nature scene and make a real difference for biodiversity, all while gathering hilarious and heartwarming observations along the way.
As we head into another round of the CNC, one thing becomes abundantly clear: nature has a fantastic sense of humor, and sometimes the wildest moments come from simply paying attention to the unexpected stars of the show.
The Silly Side of Science: When the Star of the Show Isn’t What You Expect
Let’s be real: sometimes the coolest thing in a nature photo isn’t the organism you set out to capture. Case in point: a recent hilarious iNaturalist observation that made its way to Reddit. The caption? “What are these beach flowers? Ignore the elephant seal.” Yep, you read that correctly. Someone was so focused on identifying the flowers in their photo that they asked others to ignore the massive elephant seal photobombing the scene. Classic!
This got me thinking—nature is full of surprises, and not all of them involve the creatures we think will steal the spotlight. That’s exactly the inspiration behind a wonderfully silly project on iNaturalist: Ignore the Elephant Seal. You read that right—someone was so focused on identifying the flowers in their photo, they asked everyone to ignore the gigantic elephant seal photobombing the shot! It’s all about the moments when something in your photo becomes the unintentional star of the show. Maybe you’re out there photographing a peaceful field of flowers, and then, boom—a random turtle decides to crash the scene, or a bird flies by, striking the most majestic pose imaginable.
I mean, let’s face it, nature doesn’t always stick to the script, and sometimes it’s those accidental photobombs and surprise moments that bring the most joy. This project is a celebration of those goofy and unexpected nature moments, where the plants, bugs, or critters that catch our attention aren’t the ones we originally set out to observe. And honestly, that’s what makes it so much fun.
So next time you’re out snapping photos, keep your eyes peeled. Who knows? You might catch a magnificent animal striking a pose—or, you might just get photobombed by an elephant seal. Either way, you’ll have a memory worth sharing, and possibly a good laugh along the way.
It’s a delightful reminder that even when you’re so focused on one thing, nature might just throw something far more interesting into the frame, making the identification process all the more entertaining.
Speaking of unexpected moments, one iNaturalist project you won’t want to miss is Epic Poses. This treasure trove of magnificent animal poses captures creatures in their most dynamic, human-like stances. Picture an owl mid-glare or a fox striking a yoga pose—these are animals who know how to work the camera. And let’s face it, when an animal’s got charisma, it’s impossible not to smile.
Then there’s Organisms Celebrating Holidays, a project that showcases our nature-loving friends as they don seasonal decorations. While you might spot a bird rocking a Christmas ornament or a turtle with a little party hat, the beauty lies in the imagination it takes to see these creatures as partaking in the holidays just like us. Maybe it’s a stretch, but hey, it’s all in good fun!
And if you really want to dive into the weird and wonderful world of nature’s quirks, check out Amazing Aberrants. This project celebrates organisms with rare colorations or unique features—like albino squirrels or an unusually colored flower that’s caught your eye. It’s the perfect place to document your own nature surprises, like the moment you spot a purple crocus that’s a little more lavender than expected.
For those who love a good laugh, the Observational Comedyproject is your go-to spot. This is the project for those observations where the story behind the image is just as important as the creature you’re spotting. Whether it’s a frog giving you the side-eye or a bird trying to pull off its best “I didn’t do it!” face, these amusing moments are bound to keep you entertained as you engage with nature.
But there’s one more iNaturalist project that truly captures the fun side of nature: The Name Game. Who doesn’t love a species with a quirky or downright hilarious name? From “Spotted Wobbegong” to the laugh-out-loud “Ghost Flower,” this project is a collection of the weirdest, wackiest, and most wonderful species names out there. It’s a chance to appreciate nature’s sense of humor in full force—and, really, who can resist an organism with an epic name?
As we embark on the City Nature Challenge, it’s important to remember that it’s about more than just observation—it’s about community, fun, and connecting to the natural world in ways that remind us just how strange, funny, and beautiful life can be. This event encourages you to get outside, explore your surroundings, and document the wonders that nature throws your way, no matter how bizarre or unexpected they might seem.
And, if you’re still wondering how you can participate in this global citizen science event, it’s easy! Simply create an iNaturalist account on your smartphone app, head out into your local parks, back yard, bus stop, gardens, or nature reserves, and start snapping photos of wild animals, plants, fungi, and other species you encounter. From April 25 to April 28, take the time to upload your observations to help document the incredible biodiversity in your area. Then, from April 29 to May 4, help identify others’ findings and contribute to the global knowledge of species distribution.
But the best part of the City Nature Challenge isn’t just about collecting data—it’s the moments of joy and laughter that come with every new sighting. Whether you’re discovering that the beach flowers you’re so intent on photographing have been photobombed by an elephant seal or spotting a bird in a hat, nature’s comedy will keep you coming back for more.
So, are you ready to connect with nature in a whole new way? Collect your family for the upcoming holiday Friday April 19 to Sunday April 27, pack your camera, smartphone, binoculars or magnifying glass, grab your sense of humor, and join the City Nature Challenge April 25 – April 28, 2025. Whether you’re in it for the science or the giggles, there’s no better way to celebrate the 55th birthday of Earth Month, connect with your community, and discover the quirky side of the natural world. Let’s get outside and have some fun! While students are wrapping up their Easter Break (a glorious 9-day stretch of nature-filled fun from April 19 to April 27), the City Nature Challenge presents an incredible opportunity for all of us to connect with the great outdoors, discover wild organisms, and take part in citizen science, and get some practice time in before the CNC YXE!
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
Picture this: You’re standing in a field, playing the classic “I spy with my little eye” game, and there it is—something red. Maybe it’s a flash of fiery color in the sky. Or a little critter with a crimson touch. Red, it turns out, is everywhere in nature, and when you’re out in the wild, there’s a lot more to this color than just its appearance.
Red is often linked to boldness and danger, but also to beauty, vibrancy, and sometimes a touch of mystery. When you think of red in nature, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s a male woodpecker, rocking a bright red tuft atop its head. Or maybe it’s the lady beetle, decked out in its signature scarlet shell. How about the red and blue checkered beetle? It’s like a walking party on six legs. And we can’t forget the endless sea of red flowers—petals as rich as rubies, filling the air with a scent of spring and hope.
But hold on, there’s something even more mind-blowing waiting for you—have you ever seen the slime molds of Saskatchewan? If you’re picturing an otherworldly, gooey creature, you’re absolutely right. These slime molds are living pieces of art, with fiery red hues that are impossible to miss!
Now, here’s where it gets even cooler. As we gear up for the 2025 City Nature Challenge, you might just want to channel your inner explorer and keep an eye out for red organisms as you roam the wild. In fact, there’s a special project on iNaturalist that might just spark your interest: the Red List Project.
What’s the Red List, you ask? Well, it’s a collection of species that are in conservation concern, species you’ll want to keep a special eye on as you walk through the natural world. By participating in this project, you’re not only admiring the vibrant reds that nature has to offer, but you’re also contributing to global efforts to protect these at-risk organisms (which may or may not be red). It’s a simple way to make a huge difference while enjoying the color-filled adventure that nature always provides!
The City Nature Challenge (CNC) is more than just a chance to spy some red—it’s an event that motivates people to connect with nature and engage in citizen science. From April 25–28, 2025, you’ll be able to head outdoors, snap pics of any wild creatures, and upload them to iNaturalist (or Seek) to help catalog biodiversity across the city. This isn’t just about spotting creatures with red markings; it’s about gathering valuable data that can be used to help protect our planet’s biodiversity.
So, how can you get involved? First, create an iNaturalist account and download the app. Whether you’re using iNaturalist or the Seek app, you’ll be able to easily log your observations and help identify species in your area. After all, the CNC isn’t just about observing; it’s also about identification, and everyone—yes, even you!—can contribute to the global database of biodiversity.
While you’re out there, make sure to join in on the red fun by looking for those red-clad critters and plants. Whether it’s a brilliant red flower or a beetle with an eye-popping red shell, your observations are valuable. You’ll be amazed at how many red organisms are hiding right under your nose, waiting for you to discover them.
The City Nature Challenge isn’t just about observing wildlife; it’s about connecting with others, building community, and learning together. It’s about making science accessible to everyone and having fun while doing it. Plus, you’ll get to track your progress and see how your city stacks up against others in this global event. Don’t worry, there’s no need to be overly competitive (unless you want to)—this is about having a blast with some friendly competition!
As for the Red List Project, every organism you record helps build awareness and create a safety net for endangered species. It’s a fantastic way to contribute to conservation efforts while also diving deep into the beauty of nature.
So, next time you’re outdoors, remember to keep an eye out for red. It’s everywhere! Whether you’re spotting a crimson beetle or a blooming red tulip, every red observation you make is a step toward understanding and protecting the world around us.
Happy red seeking, fellow nature enthusiasts, and don’t forget to share your finds with the City Nature Challenge! Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there are free events!
The Trembling Aspen A Dioecious Catkin or Ament Tim1357 cc2Red FoxShepherdia argentea, commonly called silver buffaloberry bull berry, or thorny buffaloberry. CC-BY-SA-3.0 credit Julia AdamsonRed-Winged Blackbird. West Swale Wetlands Chappell Marsh. Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Saskatoon, SK
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
A time line presented by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas FriendsAreas.ca
In a significant move towards enhancing urban green spaces, Saskatoon is embarking on the Richard St. Barbe Baker Natural Infrastructure Project as part of its Green Network Strategy. With a commitment of over $34 million, this initiative aims to rejuvenate the city’s natural infrastructure, focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and biodiversity.
Transforming Saskatoon: The Richard St. Barbe Baker Natural Infrastructure Project
A Vision for Green Spaces
The Green Pathways Implementation Plan outlines a comprehensive strategy for developing an interconnected green network in Saskatoon. This plan emphasizes the importance of conserving natural areas, creating connections between them, and promoting a healthier environment for both residents and wildlife. Key components of this initiative include the construction of crusher dust trails, installation of new garbage cans, and the introduction of new gates, enhancing accessibility and usability for the community.
Moreover, the project prioritizes ecological diversity through the planting of native trees, flowers, grasses, and shrubs. These elements not only beautify the landscape but also support local wildlife, fostering a thriving ecosystem. By integrating natural infrastructure into urban planning, Saskatoon is setting a precedent for sustainable development.
Funding and Support
The funding for this ambitious project comes from a collaboration between the Government of Canada and the City of Saskatoon. The federal government is contributing $20 million through the Natural Infrastructure Fund, with the city adding an additional $14.6 million from existing resources. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents while addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.
According to the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, “Investing in natural infrastructure is an important way to use communities’ ecosystems to enhance biodiversity, reduce pollution, and build resilience to climate change.” This sentiment reflects the broader goals of the Green Network Project, which seeks to create a sustainable environment for future generations.
Climate Resilience and Community Benefits
Urban growth and the impacts of climate change necessitate urgent action to protect and manage green spaces. The Richard St. Barbe Baker project is designed to mitigate flood risks, lower emissions, and improve climate resilience in the region. Enhanced green spaces will also provide recreational opportunities, promote community engagement, and encourage educational initiatives related to environmental stewardship.
The project’s design aligns with the city’s commitment to equity and reconciliation, ensuring that all community members have access to natural areas. By fostering inclusivity, Saskatoon aims to create a greener, more vibrant community that values and protects its natural heritage.
Engaging the Community
Community engagement is a cornerstone of the Green Infrastructure Strategy. The City of Saskatoon has initiated past and ongoing engagement opportunities, inviting residents to contribute their ideas and feedback on the Natural Area Policy and Process (NAPP) project. This collaborative approach ensures that the voices of community members are heard and that the enhancements made reflect their needs and desires.
The involvement of local stakeholders, including Indigenous communities, is crucial to the success of the project. A minimum of 10% of the funding is allocated to Indigenous-led initiatives, fostering partnerships that honor traditional knowledge and practices in land stewardship.
Future Directions
As Saskatoon moves forward with the Richard St. Barbe Baker project, the future looks promising. The planned enhancements at the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (RSBBAA) will serve as a model for other cities aiming to integrate natural infrastructure into their urban landscapes. By prioritizing the health of its ecosystems, Saskatoon is not only improving its environment but also enriching the lives of its residents.
This project, along with others under the Green Network umbrella, represents a significant step towards a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban environment. As more native species take root and pathways for community engagement are established, Saskatoon will emerge as a beacon of environmental innovation, setting a standard for cities across Canada.
With the implementation of these initiatives, Saskatoon is poised to become a city where nature thrives alongside urban life, creating a harmonious balance that benefits all. As the community looks ahead, it is clear that the Richard St. Barbe Baker Natural Infrastructure Project is more than just a series of enhancements; it’s a commitment to a greener, more sustainable future for everyone.
A time line presented by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas FriendsAreas.ca
With your dedication and support, we can create a lasting impact on the environment and our community. Thank you for being a part of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas!
City of Saskatoon Natural Infrastructure Funding Project at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area CoS NIF RSBBAA
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
In addition to these two divisions, there is additionally the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan which have set up provincial projects as well. So this means that you can actually use iNaturalist anywhere in the province and still be counted in. Here is a handy link to the Saskatoon and Area BioDiverCity Challenge
“Plants and flowers taught me how to grow, by growing in secret and in silence.”
Michael Bassey Johnson.
So, at this virtual Zoom identification party, we will discover the exciting world of identifications using iNaturalist. Plants will be the focus, and if anyone has a plant related question, now would be the time to bring it forward. We are mainly focusing in on native or wild plants, and not cultivated plants for the garden or flower bed.
If all mankind were to disappear, the world would regenerate back to the rich state of equilibrium that existed ten thousand years ago. If insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos.
E. O. Wilson
The City Nature Challenge happens April 29 – May 2, and it is so exciting to have so many interested people in the CNCYXE2022! Thanks for downloading the iNaturalist app, doing some experimental observations, and looking outside in nature for wildlife. It can be any wild plant, insects, mushrooms, animal, fungi, or any other evidence of life (shells, scat, fur, tracks, feathers, nests) found in your neighborhood, home, backyard, or even through your windows. You might be surprised by how many insects thrive in the nooks and crannies around you. There are also some group meets planned as well to take advantage of.
Pollinator on dandelionThermopsis rhombifolia flowers – Buffalo Bean Nadiatalent CCx4Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, CanadaCaragana Flower Blooom FRichard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK CAWhite Rose
Celebrate 50 years! Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional park were planted to trees in 1972, 50 years ago. Come out and say Happy Birthday!
CNC YXE DNU participant / collaborator / organiser meetings held the second Tuesday of the month via zoom email for your zoom link friendsafforestation@gmail.com From there we can arrange to host iNaturalist introductory webinars for observers and identifiers or bio-blitz hints and tips.
Help put the City of Saskatoon and area on the world nature scene! Using iNaturalist take photos of plants, animals, insects and mushrooms between April 29 – May 2, 2022! Saskatoon will compete for the title of the most Biodiverse City. We need your help. YouTube Video about getting involved
From May 3-May 8 identify what was found in Saskatoon Taking part is easy!
Whether you’re an avid naturalist or a dog walker, everyone can participate: it’s easy, fun, and will encourage you to get outdoors.
Started in 2016 for the first-ever Citizen Science Day, the citizen science teams at Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and California Academy of Sciences dreamed up the City Nature Challenge as a fun way to capitalize on their home cities’ friendly rivalry and hold a citizen science event around urban biodiversity. The first City Nature Challenge was an eight-day competition between Los Angeles and San Francisco, engaging residents and visitors in documenting nature to better understand urban biodiversity. Over 20,000 observations were made by more than 1000 people in a one-week period, cataloging approximately 1600 species in each location, including new records for both areas. During the 2016 CNC, the organizers heard so much excitement and interest from people in other cities that they decided that they couldn’t keep to the fun just to themselves. In 2017 the City Nature Challenge went national, and in 2018, the CNC became an international event!
Saskatoon is now registered for the very first time ever to participate in the 2022 event – so we really need your help to highlight the City of Saskatoon area!
The Canada Wide City Nature Challenge is hosted by Canadian Wildlife Federation. The worldwide City Nature Challenge is hosted by California Academy of Sciences and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
CNC YXE is run completely by volunteer organizers. If you’re part of a local stewardship or municipal group and would like to contribute to the promotion of the event, offer your skillsets, or make a donation to this city project please contact friendsafforestation@gmail.com to learn more.
Protecting the environment, taking action on climate change, conservation and restoration for species at risk, all while enjoying nature it doesn’t get better than this! Take part in the launch of “Our Forest Returns Saskatoon” – a campaign to kickstart the amazing wonders of winter in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and out at George Genereux Urban Regional Park.
What is a Saskatoon Wild Forest Angel for the Our Forest Returns Saskatoon campaign? How does becoming a steward or guardian make a difference for nature in the City of Saskatoon afforestation areas?
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
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date! Canada Helps
“The future of the planet concerns all of us, and all of us should do what we can to protect it. ” Wangari Maathai.
“The science of forestry arose from the recognition of a universal need. It embodies the spirit of service to mankind in attempting to provide a means of supplying forever a necessity of life and, in addition, ministering to man’s aesthetic tastes and recreational interests. Besides, the spiritual side of human nature needs the refreshing inspiration which comes from trees and woodlands. If a nations saves its trees, the trees will save the nation. And nations as well as tribes may be brought together in this great movement, based on the ideal of beautifying the world by the cultivation of one of God’s loveliest creatures – the tree.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker.
The Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park need you! If you would like to truly become a knowledegable biophiliac, use your time during COVID-19 to order Trees in Canada written by John Laird Farrar. This most excellent book introduces one to the 12 groupings of trees. And you may have thought there were only two – evergreens (conifers) and deciduous (broad-leaf) trees. If you would like to be able to identify the various characteristics of trees, then Farrar has provided this excellent resource. On pages 62-63, for instance the leaves, buds, twigs, seed cones, seeds, seedlings, bark, size and form are noted for the Scots Pine (Scotch pine Pinus sylvestris L.)
Trees exhale for us so that we can inhale them to stay alive. Can we ever forget that? Let us love trees with every breath we take until we perish.”
― Munia Khan
You can take care of yourself, and do your part for social isolation during this COVID-19 pandemic, and help the forests at the same time! If you are on self-isolation, go on iNaturalist at home, and help identify the species that have already been found!
Richard St. Barbe Baker AFforestation Area, Saskatoon, SK
Trembling Aspen Leaf with dew drops, Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK, CA
Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
“St. Barbe’s unique capacity to pass on his enthusiasm to others. . . Many foresters all over the world found their vocations as a result of hearing ‘The Man of the Trees’ speak. I certainly did, but his impact has been much wider than that. Through his global lecture tours, St. Barbe has made millions of people aware of the importance of trees and forests to our planet.” Allan Grainger
“From the forest and wilderness come the tonics and bark which brace mankind…A town is saved, not more by the righteous men in it than by the woods and swamps that surround it…”
-Henry David Thoreau
“This generation may either be the last to exist in any semblance of a civilised world or that it will be the first to have the vision, the bearing and the greatness to say, ‘I will have nothing to do with this destruction of life, I will play no part in this devastation of the land, I am determined to live and work for peaceful construction for I am morally responsible for the world of today and the generations of tomorrow.’”
Richard St. Barbe Baker
How can we determine which of the roses are which in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park forest communities?
Prickly Rose (Rosa Acicularlis Lindl.) the Prairie Rose (Rosa arkansana) and Wood’s Rose, or Wild Rose (Rosa woodsii) are perhaps easiest to identify in mid-June when the pink blooms appear. These blooms last perhaps two weeks, giving way to the fruit or the red or reddish-orange rose hips, which again make this bush easy to identify. Whereas, all rose bushes have thorns, the Prickly Rose is abundant with weak thorns.
Rose in the Richard St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Native Rose Bush blooming in June
Prickly Rose (Rosa Acicularlis Lindl.) the Prairie Rose (Rosa arkansana) and Wood’s Rose, or Wild Rose (Rosa woodsii) all grow well across Saskatchewan, in the quaking aspen parkland, and also the grasslands as well as the northern boreal forests. This bush is often found where the soil has been made acidic due to the contributions of spruce or pine, and will grow in forests comprised of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides), and cottonwood (Populous spp.) all of these trees making up both the afforestation areas – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park forest communities.
The rose bush, will make its appearance in places where rodents or other animals disturb the soil, loosening up the soil which then receives the rose seed (achene) in an area conducive to growth. Or, in fact, these animals may also be disturbing the rhizomatous roots which are laying below the soil. Adventitious buds form on roots near the ground surface, on damaged stems (as on the stumps of cut rose shrubs), or on old roots. These roots develop into above-ground stems and leaves. A form of budding called suckering is the reproduction or regeneration of a plant by shoots that arise from an existing root system. The rose bushes do not tolerate a closed forest canopy as they are only moderately shade tolerant.
What is the difference between scientists?
A botanist is an expert in or student of the scientific study of plants, based on the Greek root botanikos, from botanē meaning plant, and -logy from French -logie or from Greek / medieval Latin -logia meaning the study or interest in a subject. A biologist is a scientist who focuses on living organisms, including plants and animals from Greek bios ‘life’ + -logy. A naturalist, on the other hand, is a person who studies or is an expert in natural history, especially a zoologist or botanist. Historically, if one lived back in the late 14th century, the Middle English word for a “natural philosopher or scientist” was naturien instead of naturalist.
A citizen scientist is anyone who aids in the collection and analysis of data relating to the natural world, and reports them to a collaborative project with professional scientists. Some wonderful ways to report data from the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park forest ecosystems, would be for citizen scientists to make observations and send them off on their computers or by using phone apps. iNaturalist, ebird, Bird Studies Canada, EcoSpark, eButterfly, FrogWatch, PlantWatch, Project Noah, Project BudBurst, Nature’s Notebook, LeafSnap. The Native Plant Society of Saskatchewan has a Saskatchewan Master Naturalists program. The Saskatoon Nature Society conducts regular field trips to connect people and nature. Jane’s Walks and The Wild About Saskatoon Walks in the spring month of May introduce the visitor to both the afforestation areas – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park forest communities.
PlantWatch The PlantWatch program enables citizen scientists to get involved by recording flowering times for selected plant species and reporting these dates to researchers, who work to identify ecological changes that may be affecting our environment. By reporting on the PlantWatch species found in your community, you can help researchers discover how common plants are responding to climate change and track where changes are taking place in Canada, and at what rate.
Project BudBurst Project BudBurst is an app to receive data on the timing of leafing and flowering of trees and flowers Project BudBurst also offers climate change and phenology materials and tools
LeafSnap The user of the LeafSnap App needs to extract the leaf and place it in a white background and then take a picture through the app to get the leaf identified automatically.
Reporting your findings on facebook, or social media, and using the hashtags #ScienceAroundMe., #RichardStBarbeBakerAfforestationArea, #GeorgeGenereuxUrbanRegionalPark, #Saskatoon, #YXEGreenStrategy are some excellent ways to track the eco-system out at the afforestation areas.
What is taxonomy?
Botanists refer to a taxonomic key produced by a taxonomist when speaking in reports, publications or at conferences about plants.
Taxonomic Ranks, and Binomial Name Genus and Species
“Nature produces individuals, and nothing more. She produces them in such countless numbers that we are compelled to sort them into kinds in order that we may be able to carry them in our minds. This sorting is classification—taxonomy.” ~C.E. Bessey Though Aristotle (384-322 B.C.) may be regarded as the first ever naturalist, Theophrastus (371–287 B.C.), his pupil, is recognised as the father of Botany. However, the starting point for modern botanical nomenclature is Linnaeus’ Species Plantarum of 1753 which featured a key event as Linnaeus adopted the system of using binomial names for plant species. Binomial nomenclature is a two-naming system featuring the first part of the name – the generic name– identifying the genus to which the plant or organism belongs, while the second part – the specific name or specific epithet – continues on to identify the species. The classification of something, living things or organisms is the science called taxonomy. Ataxonomist groups organisms into categories. A plant taxonomist may study the origins, and the relationships between different types of roses. Taxonomists may come up with their own system of plant taxonomy or “taxonomic system
Taxonomic Chart Blank
Figure 1 Complete the Taxonomic Ranks for the Saskatchewan Wild Rose Method 1 Use the given relationships below used by botanists Method 2 Create your own Taxonomy Chart, Taxonomic Section titles, and plant names.
In Saskatchewan roses have the same taxonomy through to the genus “Rosa.” Of all the taxonomic classifications, the clade ‘Rosids’ is the most challenging taxonomic category to describe.
Kingdom: Plantae. Plantae means plants, featuring multi-cellular living things with predominantly photosynthetic cells.
Rosales Classification taxonomy key according to the USDA
Clade: Angiosperms. Angiosperms are plants with fruit. Angiosperms are land plants which produce seeds within an enclosure such as a fruiting body. Angiosperms is derived from the Greek words angeion (“case” or “casing”) and sperma (“seed”).
Clade: Eudicot. Eudicots have two seed leaves which provide nutrients to the embroyo from the Greek words eu, well or good, dio two, and kotylidon seedlobe. Eudicot as a reference first proposed that there is a pair of leaves, or cotyledons, in the embryo of the seed. Currently the classification refers to angiosperms which are not monocots.
Order: Rosales. Those rosids which are nitrogen fixing or those plants which belong to the nitrogen fixing order are given the name Rosales.
Family: Rosaceae. The subfamily of rosaceae is Rosoideae, those plants with rose hips. Rosoideae which are those genera bearing aggregate fruits that are made up of small achenes or drupelets, and often the fleshy part of the fruit is the receptacle or the stalk bearing the carpels (female reproductive organ of a flower, consisting of an ovary, a stigma, and usually a style). In taxonomy, that which separates the family Rosaceae from the order Rosales is that the plant ovaries and achenes (seeds) are hidden inside the round hypanthium.
Genus: Rosa. Two of the ways that the rosaceae family can be narrowed down to the genus Rosa are; if the plant features many pistils and prickly stems. chapter: genus Rosa (Part 3).
Species:R. Acicularlis Lindl., R. arkansana, R. woodsii
Biological Classification Chart
Figure 2 From the information above fill out the Biological classification Chart. What happened? Have there been changes in the Linnaean system? Why? For extra points, how many different kingdoms are there?
In the USDA classification
Kingdom Plantae refers to plants.
Sub-Kingdom Tracheobionta are vascular plants with lignified plant tissues (called vessels or trachea) for moving water and minerals around the plant.
Super-division Spermatophyta are seed plants. Seed plants are divided into two groups Gymnosperms and Angiosperms.
Division Magnoliophyta are flowering plants. Plants in Magnoliophyta were formerly classified as angiosperms.
Order Rosales feature nitrogen fixing flowers with four or five petals and the blossoms are flat or cup-shaped. They also have fleshy fruit.
Activities and questions
Design, construct and evaluate the effectiveness of a taxonomic classification technique that demonstrates the scientific principles underlying the identification of plants and how to differentiate one plant from another.
Evaluate, compare (find the similarities) and contrast (find the differences) to weigh the effectiveness of more than one of the previously devised botanical classifications. Debate the issue with supporting arguments pro and con.
What type of background in the physical sciences would a botanist or a taxonomist require?
Are there any biologists, or naturalists in Saskatchewan?
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail)
Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
“St. Barbe’s unique capacity to pass on his enthusiasm to others. . . Many foresters all over the world found their vocations as a result of hearing ‘The Man of the Trees’ speak. I certainly did, but his impact has been much wider than that. Through his global lecture tours, St. Barbe has made millions of people aware of the importance of trees and forests to our planet.” Allan Grainger
“The science of forestry arose from the recognition of a universal need. It embodies the spirit of service to mankind in attempting to provide a means of supplying forever a necessity of life and, in addition, ministering to man’s aesthetic tastes and recreational interests. Besides, the spiritual side of human nature needs the refreshing inspiration which comes from trees and woodlands. If a nation saves its trees, the trees will save the nation. And nations as well as tribes may be brought together in this great movement, based on the ideal of beautifying the world by the cultivation of one of God’s loveliest creatures – the tree.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker.
“In the stillness of the mighty woods, man is made aware of the divine”
Richard St Barbe Baker
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Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life. 
