“Come With Me, This Gentle Way”

“Come With Me, This Gentle Way”
(for National Tourism Week 2025 April 7-11)

Come with me—
the path is not hurried.
It winds gently where the city sighs
into woods, into wild,
into the song of wind on new leaves.

It is National Tourism Week,
fifteen years now of open arms
and stories told in footsteps,
in laughter, in quiet looking.

Let April lift you.
Let the soft days between the seventh and eleventh
carry your family outward—
to the world just outside your door,
to where nature still leans in close
and speaks in the language of chickadees and green shoots.

Then, let Easter’s breath linger
through the City Nature Challenge, April 25 to 29
a scavenger hunt of awe,
of beetles, bark, and birdsong,
where children chase wonder
instead of clocks.

In May, take the Jane’s Walk.
Not to conquer the streets,
but to know them—
to trace the edges where
history curls around the roots of trees,
and every corner holds a whisper.

And when your heart is ready—
when the longing for stillness returns,
come visit the twin quiets:
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
and George Genereux Urban Regional Park.

They are not far,
just a breath beyond the busy.
There, you’ll find
the old companionship of trees
and the hush that lives
in all good forests.

So pack only this:
curiosity,
kindness,
and a willingness to be surprised.

The wild is calling—
not far,
not fierce—
just waiting,
softly,
for you.

www.friendsareas.ca

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

Week One ParticipACTION Community Challenge

Welcome everyone to the exhilarating kickoff of the Afforestation Area ParticipACTION Community Challenge! As we delve into this month-long extravaganza, we are thrilled to present the first week array of events designed to invigorate both mind and body while fostering a deep connection with nature.

Celebrate National Health and Fitness Day on June 1 by joining the ParticipACTION Community Challenge! Saturday, June 1 is National Health and Fitness Day in Canada, and the kick-off of the ParticipACTION Community Challenge presented by Novo Nordisk. Running from June 1 to 30, the challenge encourages everyone in Canada to get active throughout June, ultimately recognizing Canada’s Most Active Community and awarding it $100,000 to
support local physical activity and sport initiatives. There will also be a prize for the most active community in each province and territory, and ParticipACTION will recognize and award organizations that are championing the challenge in their communities. To help remove barriers to people getting active, we
encourage you to offer active opportunities on June 1 through open houses, free programming and more! Better yet, register your June initiative(s) on the
ParticipACTION website and help your community win! Thank you for support from ParticipACTION and @TDParksPeople!

Starting off with a burst of energy on National Health and Fitness Day, join us on Saturday, June 1st, at RSBBAA from 14:00 to 16:00 for the “Invigorating Inaugural ParticipACTION Community Challenge Event!” Let’s embrace the spirit of wellness together.

On Sunday, June 2nd, immerse yourself in the splendor of the great outdoors as we celebrate “Discover the Great Outdoors: A Celebration of Triumph and Unity” at GGURP from 14:00 to 16:00. It’s a day of exploration and camaraderie you won’t want to miss.

Monday, June 3rd, marks World Bicycle Day, and we’re gearing up for “Pedal Palooza” at RSBBAA from 19:00 to 21:00. Bring your bike, get ready to pedal your way to fitness and fun!

Join us on Tuesday, June 4th, at GGURP from 19:00 to 21:00 for “Wilderness Workout,” a thrilling group stretching and fitness session that promises to elevate your spirits and strengthen your body.

As we honor World Environment Day on Wednesday, June 5th, head over to RSBBAA from 19:00 to 21:00 for “Every Species Counts – Climate Action.” Engage with representatives from the Climate Hub as we delve into discussions on climate action and biodiversity conservation.

Thursday, June 6th, brings “Paws for Empathy” to RSBBAA from 19:00 to 21:00, a delightful dog-walking event Special Guest Speaker is arranged where you can learn more about service dogs, therapy dogs, and the profound bond between humans and canines.

On Friday, June 7th, embrace the thrill of running on Global Running Day with “Feel The Thrill” at RSBBAA from 19:00 to 21:00. Lace up your running shoes and hit the trails with us!

Saturday, June 8th, celebrates Gay and Lesbian Pride Month with “Pride in the Forest – Artistic Expressions” at RSBBAA from 14:00 to 16:00. Explore the natural diversity of 2SLGBTQQIA+ identities in the animal kingdom and beyond.

Closing out the week, Bike Week takes center stage from June 8th to June 16th, culminating in “Wheeling Wellness” on Sunday, June 9th, at RSBBAA from 14:00 to 16:00. Let’s ride towards better health and environmental stewardship together.

With events spanning from health and fitness to environmental awareness and community engagement, the Afforestation Area ParticipACTION Community Challenge promises an unforgettable week of connection, celebration, and growth. Join us as we embark on this inspiring journey towards a healthier, happier future!

Meet Councillor David Kirton During Arbor Week in May! Two exciting tree events coming your way!

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

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

““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

Reconnecting with Nature: A Prescription for World Health Day

In the age of modernity, where concrete jungles dominate and technology reigns supreme, it’s easy to forget our innate connection to the natural world. Yet, as we mark World Health Day on April 7, with a theme resonating “My health, my right,” it’s crucial to heed the wisdom of our ancestors and embrace the profound interconnections that bind us to all living beings.

Diseases and disasters loom large as causes of death and changes in abilities, and conflicts ravage lives, inflicting death, pain, and psychological distress. Moreover, the burning of fossil fuels not only fuels the climate crisis but also deprives us of our right to breathe clean air, with air pollution claiming a life every 5 seconds. In the face of such challenges, it’s imperative to recognize the intrinsic link between human health and the health of our planet.

As Sylvia McAdam beautifully articulates in her exploration of Cree law, wahkohtowin—the concept of kinship and interconnectedness—lies at the heart of our relationship with nature. It reminds us that we are not separate entities but rather part of a vast web of life, where every creature, plant, and element is interconnected. Maria Campbell‘s elucidation of wahkohtowin further emphasizes the importance of honoring and respecting these relationships, not just among humans but with all of creation.

In the spirit of World Health Day, let us reclaim our connection to nature and acknowledge our reciprocal obligations to the Earth and all its inhabitants. As we ponder the significance of this day and reflect on its vital role in promoting holistic well-being, let us immerse ourselves in the healing embrace of the natural world.

I invite you to join us at the City Nature Challenge, taking place between April 26 and 29 in Saskatoon and its surrounding areas. Whether through recording photos and sound recordings of organisms or participating in scheduled events, let us embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the intricate tapestry of life that thrives within our city.

In embracing nature’s abundance, we rediscover the essence of true health—harmony, balance, and interconnectedness. So, let us come together to celebrate the health of nature and the health of all organisms, for in doing so, we honor the sacred bond of wahkohtowin that binds us all.

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

For directions 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

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

““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 Change: A Message from Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, Eagle Ridge, and Battle River Kennels

Embracing Change: A Message from Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, Eagle Ride, and Battle River Kennels

Subheading: Prioritizing Canine Safety in Unpredictable Weather Conditions

Dear Dog Sledding Enthusiasts,

In the heart of every adventure lies a commitment to safety and responsibility. With this in mind, we regret to inform you that our highly anticipated dog sledding event, scheduled for Saturday, March 30, 2024, in the afternoon, has been canceled. Everyone tried so hard after the January 13 cancellation to make it happen, but again, the weather did not cooperate. This decision was made in consultation with our dedicated kennel mushers, who prioritize the safety and well-being of our four-legged companions above all else.

As much as we were eagerly looking forward to hitting the trails with our beloved canine team, recent weather conditions have posed unforeseen challenges. With warmer temperatures followed by freezing, the trails have become hazardous for our dogs to navigate. The layer of new snow atop the ice presents slippery conditions, potentially endangering the safety of our furry friends.

We understand the disappointment that accompanies the cancellation of an event we were all eagerly anticipating. However, our foremost concern is ensuring the safety and happiness of our canine companions. We hope for your understanding and support in this decision, as difficult as it may be.

Despite the cancellation, we invite you to join us at the afforestation area for a walking tour tomorrow afternoon. This presents a wonderful opportunity to still enjoy the outdoors, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature. Your presence and support mean the world to us, and we would be delighted to share this experience with you.

Looking ahead to the spring season, we have an array of exciting events lined up for our community. From the City Nature Challenge in April to Jane’s Walks in May, and Arbor Week celebrations, there are ample opportunities for you to engage with and contribute to our cause. These events serve as platforms for us to come together, learn, and celebrate our shared love for nature and conservation.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all our registrants and volunteers for your unwavering support and enthusiasm. Your dedication to our cause is truly commendable, and it is through your contributions that we continue to make a meaningful impact in our community.

As we navigate through this change together, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the well-being of our canine companions and the preservation of our natural environment. We look forward to welcoming you to future events and adventures with open arms.

Thank you for your understanding, your support, and your commitment to our shared mission.

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

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

““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

A Step Towards Wellness: Celebrating World Diabetes Day in Nature’s Embrace


Introduction: Empowering Health on World Diabetes Day

November 14th marks World Diabetes Day, a global initiative to raise awareness about diabetes and its impact on millions of lives. Amidst the medical interventions and treatments, there exists a simple and therapeutic way to manage diabetes—taking a walk in the serenity of nature. Explore the healing benefits of strolling through the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park, or along the West Swale Wetlands.


10 Reasons Nature Walks are Therapeutic for Diabetes:

  1. Blood Sugar Regulation: Regular walks in nature help regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to better diabetes management.
  2. Stress Reduction: Nature walks are proven to reduce stress, a key factor in diabetes management. The serene environment promotes relaxation and lowers cortisol levels.
  3. Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Physical activity, such as walking, improves insulin sensitivity, making cells more responsive to insulin and aiding glucose absorption.
  4. Weight Management: Walking is a low-impact exercise that supports weight management, a crucial aspect of diabetes care.
  5. Enhanced Cardiovascular Health: Nature walks improve cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of heart-related complications associated with diabetes.
  6. Natural Vitamin D: Sun exposure during outdoor walks promotes the synthesis of vitamin D, which plays a role in insulin sensitivity.
  7. Mindful Movement: Walking in nature encourages mindful movement, fostering a deeper connection between the mind and body, essential for diabetes self-care.
  8. Improved Sleep Quality: Regular walks contribute to better sleep quality, vital for overall health and diabetes management.
  9. Positive Impact on Mental Health: Nature walks have been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety often associated with diabetes.
  10. Community Connection: Walking in natural spaces fosters a sense of community, providing emotional support and encouragement for those managing diabetes.

Richard St. Barbe Baker’s Afforestation Legacy:

Richard St. Barbe Baker, a pioneer in environmental conservation, believed in the healing power of nature. The Afforestation Area named in his honour and the neighbouring park named after George Genereux, offer a sanctuary where individuals can embrace the therapeutic benefits of nature walks.


Conclusion: Taking Strides Towards Diabetes Wellness

As we observe World Diabetes Day on November 14th, let us consider the transformative power of nature walks in managing diabetes. Whether strolling through the lush greenery of the Afforestation Area, the expansive landscapes of George Genereux Park, or along the serene West Swale Wetlands, the healing embrace of nature awaits. Let each step become a stride towards better health, a journey of wellness empowered by the therapeutic wonders of the natural world.

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
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 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!
Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.
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

Embrace Nature’s Embrace: A Journey to Mental Wellness

In celebration of World Mental Health Day, we invite you to embark on a therapeutic journey amidst the embrace of nature. Step into the enchanting world of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park—hidden gems in Saskatoon that hold the key to mental health and wellness.

Nature’s Symphony for the Soul: As the leaves don their autumn hues, the afforestation area beckons with 132 hectares of meadows, forests, and wetlands. The George Genereux Park, with its expansive 60 hectares, provides a sanctuary of greenery within the urban landscape. These natural havens offer a melodic escape from the hustle and bustle, providing a soothing backdrop for relaxation.

Shinrin Yoku: The Forest Bathing Experience: Immerse yourself in the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku, also known as forest bathing. Wander through the dense foliage, breathe in the crisp autumn air, and let the healing properties of the forest rejuvenate your spirit. Scientifically proven, this practice has been linked to reduced stress levels and improved mental well-being.

Hygge in Nature: Embrace the Danish concept of Hygge by finding comfort, coziness, and joy in the simple pleasures of nature. Picture yourself on a bench in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, surrounded by the sounds of rustling leaves and the sweet melody of birdsong. Hygge teaches us to appreciate these moments of serenity.

The Twelve Gifts of Nature:

  1. Stress Relief: A natural remedy for the chaos of everyday life.
  2. Mindfulness: The perfect setting for calming the mind and being present.
  3. Improved Mood: Nature’s beauty has the power to uplift and inspire.
  4. Enhanced Creativity: A fertile ground for new ideas and perspectives.
  5. Better Sleep: A walk among the trees promotes restful slumber.
  6. Increased Energy: Nature provides a natural energy boost.
  7. Boosted Immune System: Fresh air and greenery contribute to overall health.
  8. Reduced Anxiety: The calming influence of nature eases anxious thoughts.
  9. Connection: A chance to connect with oneself and the natural world.
  10. Physical Health: Gentle exercise in a peaceful environment benefits the body.
  11. Positive Distraction: Nature provides a welcome break from daily stressors.
  12. Sense of Purpose: Caring for these green spaces fosters a sense of responsibility and community.

Explore Saskatoon’s Hidden Treasures: These greenspaces, rich in biodiversity, offer not just respite but a plethora of mental health benefits. Whether you prefer a contemplative walk or a tranquil meditation on a bench, these areas invite you to discover the therapeutic power of nature.

Join Us Today: Take a step towards mental wellness—visit the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. Let the trees be your companions, the wind your counselor, and the earth your healing sanctuary. As the leaves fall, let your worries drift away.

In the embrace of nature, find solace, balance, and a renewed sense of self. Happy World Mental Health Day!

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
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 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!
Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.
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

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