nature connectivity – Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life.

The Final Day of City Nature Challenge YXE: A Nature Lover’s Last Call!

Today is Monday, April 28, and while it marks the final day of the City Nature Challenge YXE 2025, don’t despair! The clock may be ticking, but there’s still time for one last big adventure out in the wilds of our city. The last official event of the challenge is tonight, but even if you can’t make it, you can still get outside and enjoy the extended daylight hours that spring has so graciously granted us. After all, sunset won’t happen until around 8:30 p.m., so there’s plenty of time to catch a glimpse of nature doing its thing, and there is plenty of songs from nature to be heard after that!

Spring is in full swing, and as you head out, your trusty iNaturalist app will be there to document everything you encounter. Whether it’s a surprising wildflower sprouting by the sidewalk or an odd insect making a swift getaway, every moment is an opportunity to connect with the natural world. This week has been about more than just collecting data – it’s been a celebration of the quirks, humor, and wonderful surprises of nature. Who would’ve thought that urban wildlife could be so hilarious and downright delightful?

So what have we learned from the last few days of observing? Let’s get into some of the wildest and wackiest observations you might make out on your final hike:

The Case of the Lazy Bumblebee: If you’ve ever seen a bumblebee just hanging out on a dandelion, not buzzing about like usual, you might wonder: Is it napping? Maybe. Is it too full from all that nectar? Quite possibly. That adorable bumbling friend might just surprise you by being totally chill – it’s a nature mystery that’s both perplexing and endearing!
The Lurking Squirrel Conspiracy: Squirrels are everywhere, but have you noticed their absolutely theatrical behavior? One minute they’re darting up a tree, the next they’re freeze-frame statues on the lawn. What are they up to? Squirrel shenanigans are an ever-present source of entertainment. Are they plotting? Are they rehearsing for an Oscar-winning performance? You decide.
When Trees Talk Back: Ever look at a tree and wonder if it’s judging you? No? Well, next time you stand beneath a towering pine or elm, take a moment to appreciate the sheer majesty. You might catch yourself thinking, If I were that tree, I’d probably be considering my options for the next 50 years. Nature doesn’t just grow, it observes.
The Accidental Frog Parade: Springtime is when frogs make their grand entrances. A quick hop across a muddy trail and suddenly, you’ve discovered the amphibian procession you didn’t know you were looking for. Tiny frogs, big frogs, frogs with questionable jumping skills – they’re all part of the show. And remember, those little guys love to croak back at you when you least expect it!
Unlikely Plant Companions: Nature doesn’t follow our rules – and that’s what makes it so charming. Sometimes, you’ll find a fern nestled comfortably inside the root system of a tree, or a rogue moss patch thriving on a mailbox post. No one asked for this plant party, but the world of flora is showing us just how much fun it can have when it does its own thing.

These are just a handful of the hilarious, heartwarming, and awe-inspiring surprises that await when you spend time outside – whether you’re in your backyard or trekking through one of Saskatoon’s vibrant parks. The City Nature Challenge isn’t just about the science; it’s about the joy of discovering what’s around us. Every leaf, every chirp, and every twitch of an animal is an invitation to pause, observe, and enjoy.

Don’t forget – this event is more than just a competition. It’s a worldwide effort to bring us closer to the biodiversity right under our noses, and to celebrate the creatures that we might overlook in our everyday lives. Download the iNaturalist app, take a moment to observe the world around you, and get involved in this citizen science adventure. Whether you’re just getting started or already deep into recording, remember: Every observation counts!

So, what are you waiting for? There’s still time to make one last observation (or four) and share it with the global iNaturalist community. Whether it’s a flower, an insect, or an unknown little critter, take a photo, upload it, and let your findings contribute to the beautiful, often hilarious tapestry of life. Who knows? Maybe your observation after it is identified, will be the next viral sensation in the iNaturalist world!

As we wrap up this year’s City Nature Challenge YXE, remember to keep the spirit of exploration alive. And remember, you can use iNaturalist all y ear long! There’s no better time to appreciate the wonders of nature than now. Whether you’re on a nature hike or just enjoying a quiet moment outdoors, keep your eyes wide open – because the world is a lot more fascinating than you might realize.

Let the laughs, the discoveries, and the adventure continue! 🌿🌸🐦

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there is one more evening free event!

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

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

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

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

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

BlueSky Social

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Support via Zeffy

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

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

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Gratitude in Action; Roger’s TV

Gratitude in Action: Connecting with Nature and Community for the City Nature Challenge 2025

Tune into Rogers tv on “Community Shorts”, which repeats several times daily throughout the week or click; City Nature Challenge Saskatoon 2025 / UNEP accreditation Rogers tv Community Shorts

As spring begins to stir, bringing with it the promise of renewal and growth, we find ourselves reflecting on the importance of connection—both to the land and to each other. It is in moments of collective effort, rooted in shared purpose, that we find the true essence of community. In this spirit, we would like to extend our deepest thanks to those whose contributions have made the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon 2025 a reality.

At the heart of this effort is a singular, transformative opportunity: to connect with nature during the Spring Easter Break, to explore the wilds of Saskatoon, and to document the diversity of life that surrounds us. But the true beauty of this initiative, as we are discovering, lies not just in the act of observation, but in the stories woven by those who have come together in support.

First, we extend our gratitude to Eric Steiner, Producer at Rogers TV, whose tireless dedication and expertise have brought the City Nature Challenge into the homes of so many. By airing this important event, Eric has provided a unique platform to share the importance of preserving our natural world, while also offering viewers an accessible and meaningful way to connect with the wildlife around them. In a world where many find themselves increasingly disconnected from nature, Eric’s work is a reminder of how the media can serve as a bridge—linking us to the earth in ways we never thought possible.

Our thanks also go to Rahul (CPHR, MCIPD), whose insightful words and passion for the environment highlighted the importance of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas and their work. Rahul eloquently spoke to the need for urban greenspaces and how they play an essential role in building vibrant, sustainable communities. His advocacy for local environmental groups brings into focus how the preservation of natural spaces is not just a matter of conservation, but a deeply human endeavor that enhances our well-being, our health, and our futures.

It is, however, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas themselves who deserve the greatest thanks. The organization has been the guiding force behind the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon. Frezer’s work as Co-Facilitator of the Women Major Group for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has garnered significant recognition, including the recent announcement that the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas have achieved UNEP accreditation. This monumental achievement speaks not only to Frezer’s tireless advocacy but to the global recognition of the group’s ongoing efforts to protect and sustain the environment.

The City Nature Challenge stands as a testament to the power of grassroots action, a powerful reminder that from the smallest steps we take in our own neighborhoods, the ripples of change can spread across the globe. It embodies our collective ability to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through this initiative, we take a stand for SDG Life on Land, championing the protection of our ecosystems and the wildlife that depend on them. We advocate for SDG Life Below Water, recognizing the vast, often invisible world beneath the surface that sustains us all. It is also a call to action for SDG Sustainable Communities, showing that the health of our cities and towns is deeply intertwined with the health of our natural environment. And, ultimately, it fuels SDG Climate Action, reminding us that every effort to protect the planet, however small, is a step toward mitigating the climate crisis. Through the City Nature Challenge, we witness firsthand how local action has the power to shape a more sustainable future for all.

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas leadership has also extended to the creation of the YouTube feature community short for the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon 2025, a collaboration with Rogers TV’s Community Shorts initiative. Through this, we are able to celebrate the beauty of our local greenspaces—whether it’s the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or George Genereux Park—while also contributing to the broader, global mission of understanding, appreciating and protecting biodiversity. The Friends role in bringing this project to fruition is a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and community.

The City Nature Challenge, taking place from April 25 to 28, 2025, is not just an event—it is an invitation. An invitation to step outside, to explore, to learn, and to participate in the larger global conversation about biodiversity. Using the iNaturalist app, participants will be able to document their findings, contributing to the rich tapestry of knowledge that is informing global conservation efforts. The opportunity to engage with nature and to witness its beauty firsthand is one that many of us take for granted, but as we have seen through the leadership of those mentioned above, such moments are precious.

As we look ahead to this exciting event, we are reminded of the simple but profound truth that nature, in all its wild, unpredictable beauty, connects us. It binds us to the earth and to one another, and it inspires us to protect what is fragile and fleeting.

We are truly thankful to all who have made this event possible, from Eric Steiner at Rogers TV to Rahul’s impactful words and Frezer’s leadership. Together, we are creating a legacy that will endure for generations to come—one rooted in gratitude, community, and a shared commitment to the land we call home.

Event details and directions to the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Park can be found at friendsareas.ca. The iNaturalist app used to document organisms and signs of life through photo or sound recordings can be downloaded free from the App Store or Google Play.

As we approach the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon 2025, let us remember that it is through our collective action and shared responsibility that we can truly make a difference. Let us honor the natural world, not just for its beauty, but for the deep connection it fosters among us all.

The greatly appreciated Television Coverage by Global News, Saskatoon. — The greatly appreciated Television Coverage by **Eric Steiner**, Producer at Rogers TV

iNaturalist Observation with smart phone connecting with nature, supporting vital conservation research worldwide. — The greatly appreciated Television Coverage by **Eric Steiner**, Producer at Rogers TV

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

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

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

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

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

BlueSky Social

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Support via Zeffy

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

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

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Seeding Change: Your Voice Matters in Saskatoon’s Historic Climate Action Budget

Unveiling the Green Legacy of Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park

As the brisk winds of change sweep through Saskatoon, residents are being called upon to shape the city’s destiny in a groundbreaking way. The City of Saskatoon is embarking on its inaugural Climate Action Budget for 2024/2025, and the opportunity for public participation is now, urging citizens to lend their voices to the cause.

Seize the Moment

Members of the public eager to be part of this historic venture must act swiftly. Whether through submitting a letter or requesting to address the council, the deadline looms on November 27 at 5 p.m CST. This is not just another bureaucratic procedure; it’s a chance for your voice to resonate in the decisions that will shape Saskatoon’s environmental future.

Giving Tuesday: A Call to Action

Enter Giving Tuesday, November 28, a day dedicated to generosity and positive change. Your contribution on this day will echo far beyond a simple act of charity. It will fuel the voices advocating for nature-based solutions, emphasizing the critical role of afforestation in tackling climate change and biodiversity loss.

Green Survival Program Legacy

Consider the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the expansive 60-hectare George Genereux Urban Regional Park—testaments to the impact of afforestation. Planted with trees under the Green Survival Program in 1972-1973, these living landscapes stand as symbols of resilience against the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.

Keywords Igniting Change

In the heart of this movement are keywords that resonate with purpose: forest, afforestation, biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, green infrastructure, sustainable land management, climate resilience, eco-friendly practices, and conservation education. Each term fuels the momentum for change and stands as a beacon for a greener, more sustainable Saskatoon.

Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas: Uniting Voices

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas are the torchbearers, rallying citizens to raise awareness of the impending climate action budget. They are the collective voice advocating for the preservation of nature, pushing for sustainable policies that will safeguard Saskatoon’s environmental legacy.

Your Impact, Your Legacy

By participating in the budget review process, you become an architect of Saskatoon’s green legacy. Your generosity on Giving Tuesday paves the way for a city that embraces eco-friendly practices, supports conservation efforts, and stands resilient in the face of climate challenges.

As Saskatoon pioneers its first-ever Climate Action Budget, let your voice be the driving force that propels our city towards a sustainable, green future. Seize the moment, lend your support, and be part of the narrative that shapes the next chapter in Saskatoon’s environmental journey.

Thank you for being a vital part of this momentous journey.

Donate today and make a difference in preserving nature’s legacy at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Fundrazr. 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. Or reach out and become a member!

Cardiovascular benefits, and heart health forest walking

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Forest — Cardiovascular benefits, and heart health forest walking

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.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Facebook: South West OLRA
Reddit: FriendsAfforestation
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Mix: friendsareas
YouTube
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )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 and Support Conservation: Join the Giving Tuesday Campaign for Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area

In the bustling city of Saskatoon, tucked away amidst urbanization lies the hidden gems – the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. These enchanting forests not only offer a sanctuary for wildlife but also serves as an essential hub for biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, and sustainable land management. As advocates for eco-friendly practices and conservation education, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area are launching an inspiring Giving Tuesday campaign to raise awareness and support for this invaluable green infrastructure.

Embracing Nature’s Splendor:

Imagine immersing yourself in a guided nature experience at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park.– a place where you can escape the demands of daily life and reconnect with Mother Earth. Here, lush greenery surrounds you as diverse flora and fauna coexist harmoniously. Whether you’re strolling along serene forest trails or marveling at vibrant bird species overhead, this captivating environment offers solace from urban chaos.

A Haven for Biodiversity Conservation:

The Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park both play a vital role in conserving biodiversity within Saskatoon’s expanding landscape. With its rich variety of plant species, it provides critical habitats for countless animals, insects, birds, and mammals that call this forest home. By supporting initiatives that protect these ecosystems, we ensure their survival for future generations to enjoy.

Carbon Sequestration & Sustainable Land Management:

As concerns about climate change intensify globally, forests like Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. both play an integral role in mitigating its effects through carbon sequestration. These trees act as natural carbon sinks by absorbing atmospheric CO2 emissions while releasing oxygen back into our environment – making them essential allies in our fight against climate change.

Green Infrastructure & Climate Resilience:

Beyond its ecological significance, this afforestation area also serves as green infrastructure, contributing to the overall resilience of Saskatoon’s urban environment. By providing shade, reducing heat island effect, and improving air quality, this forest helps create a sustainable and livable city for its residents.

Conservation Education & Reforestation Efforts:

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area are dedicated to fostering conservation education among individuals of all ages. Through various programs and initiatives, they aim to raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable practices. Additionally, they actively engage in reforestation efforts to restore areas affected by deforestation or urbanization.

Join Our Giving Tuesday Campaign:

On this Giving Tuesday, we invite you to become a part of our mission to protect and preserve the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and and George Genereux Urban Regional Park.. Your support will enable us to continue our crucial work in biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, sustainable land management, climate resilience, eco-friendly practices, conservation education, reforestation efforts – all aimed at creating a greener and more sustainable Saskatoon.

Together, let’s ensure that future generations can experience the wonder of these magnificent forests while appreciating its invaluable contributions towards a healthier planet.

Remember – every action counts!

Business, Technology, 21st Century Culture, Planet Earth — Heart health outdoor forest walking. Heart Cloud

Heart health outdoor forest walking. Heart Cloud

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