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

Embracing Autumn Equinox Day: Celebrating Seasonal Shifts with Indigenous Perspectives

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

Indigenous Cree Seasonal Perspectives

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

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

Commemorate #NationalForestWeek with a theme in 2022 "Canada's Forests: Solutions for a Changing Climate." 2022 is the 30th anniversary of "Maple Leaf Day" or National Tree Day in Canada — Commemorate #NationalForestWeek “Maple Leaf Day” or National Tree Day in Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Birak (December – January)

Bunuru (February – March)

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

Djilba (August – September)

Kambarang (October – November)

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

Break Up (mithoskamin)

Spring (sīkwan)

Summer (nīpin)

Fall (takwākin)

Freeze-Up (mikiskāw)

Winter (pipon)

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

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

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

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

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

For more information:

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

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

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 )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

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

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Embracing Inclusivity: Celebrating International Day of Sign Language

As September ushers in the vibrant hues of fall, it also brings a momentous occasion for global awareness and inclusion: International Day of Sign Language, observed annually on September 23. This year emphasize the value of integrating diverse knowledge systems, particularly in the context of environmental stewardship. In conjunction with International Day of Sign Language, National Forest Week (September 22-28) and Science Literacy Week (September 18-24) offers an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the natural world through inclusive and educational activities.

Understanding the Importance of Sign Language

International Day of Sign Language serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of inclusivity and accessibility for Deaf communities worldwide. Sign language is not merely a means of communication but a rich, expressive language with its own grammar, culture, and history. By celebrating this day, we acknowledge the contributions of Deaf individuals and advocate for a more inclusive society where everyone’s voice is heard and respected.

Celebrating with Purpose: Integrating Science and Sign Language

This year’s theme for National Forest Week, “Two-Eyed Seeing: Welcoming All Knowledge to Sustain Our Forests,” encourages us to value diverse perspectives and knowledge systems. This aligns beautifully with the goals of Science Literacy Week, which highlights the importance of scientific understanding and inquiry.

Fraxinus_pennsylvanica Green Ash Opposite leaves which are pinnately compound with 7 to 9 serrate leaflets that are elliptical to lanceolate to elliptical in shape, entire leaf is 6 to 9 inches long, green on the top of the leaflets and silky smooth to silky-pubescent and paler below. Margins of the leaflets are either smooth or coarsely saw-toothed. Each leaflet has a short stalk or may be sessile and the leaf has a much longer stem — Fraxinus_pennsylvanica Green Ash

Autumn picture of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas supported by the non profit group Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. Please join now, like, support, share. — Fraxinus_pennsylvanica Green Ash

Here’s how you can celebrate International Day of Sign Language while engaging with National Forest Week and Science Literacy Week, incorporating activities from the Saskatchewan science curriculum for a well-rounded educational experience:

1. Sign Language Science Fair

Host a science fair that incorporates sign language into the presentation. Encourage students to research a scientific topic related to forest conservation, such as biodiversity, ecosystems, or climate change. Students can create posters or digital presentations that use sign language to explain their findings. This not only promotes scientific literacy but also fosters inclusivity by making information accessible to Deaf students and community members.

2. Nature Exploration with Sign Language

Organize a nature walk or field trip to explore local forests or natural areas. Prior to the excursion, teach students some basic sign language related to nature, such as “tree,” “leaf,” “bird,” and “water.” During the walk, use sign language to describe observations and encourage students to use these signs to communicate their discoveries. This activity aligns with the Saskatchewan science curriculum’s focus on environmental science and promotes interactive learning.

Did you know? International Sign Language (ISL), developed in the 1950s by the World Federation of the Deaf, facilitates global communication by breaking down linguistic barriers, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and creating opportunities for Deaf individuals to connect with others regardless of spoken languages or written translations.

3. Hands-On Science Activities

Incorporate hands-on science activities that align with the Saskatchewan science curriculum. For instance, students can create a model of a forest ecosystem using recycled materials, and present their models using sign language to describe different components, such as flora, fauna, and ecological interactions. This approach supports the curriculum’s emphasis on scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship while promoting inclusivity.

4. Interactive Workshops

Host workshops on September 22-28 that teach both sign language and scientific concepts. For younger students (Grades K-2), activities might include simple experiments like growing plants and learning the signs for various parts of the plant. For older students (Grades 3-8), workshops could delve deeper into topics like the role of forests in carbon sequestration or the impact of deforestation, using sign language to facilitate discussions and presentations.

5. Digital Sign Language Resources

Leverage digital resources to enhance learning and accessibility. Create or share videos that teach scientific concepts using sign language. For example, a video explaining the water cycle or forest ecosystems in sign language can be an effective educational tool. Ensure these resources are available to all students and encourage them to use sign language to discuss and share their learning.

6. Science Literacy Week Integration

During Science Literacy Week, integrate activities that promote both scientific understanding and sign language awareness. For instance, have students conduct experiments to explore concepts like plant growth or the water cycle, and incorporate sign language to explain their methods and results. This dual focus enhances both scientific literacy and inclusivity.

7. Community Engagement

Engage with local Deaf organizations or sign language interpreters to enrich your activities. Invite guest speakers to discuss the role of sign language in science communication and its importance in fostering an inclusive environment. Collaboration with the Deaf community can provide valuable insights and support for your educational efforts.

Conclusion

International Day of Sign Language, National Forest Week and Science Literacy Week provide a unique opportunity to celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and scientific understanding. By integrating sign language into your forest field trips, science activities, you not only honor the Deaf community but also enhance the educational experience for all students. Let’s embrace diverse knowledge systems and promote a more inclusive and accessible world.

Celebrate these important days with meaningful activities that bridge the gap between science and sign language, fostering a deeper appreciation for both our natural world and the rich tapestry of human communication.

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

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

For more information:

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

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

Addresses:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

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

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

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

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.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Facebook: South West OLRA Reddit: FriendsAfforestation Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas Mix: friendsareas YouTube Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers ) Donate your old vehicle, here’s how! Support using Canada Helps Support via a recycling bottle donation United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity Make it your ownSpread the word about the UN Decade Let’s Bring Back ForestsLet’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

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

Celebrating Terry Fox Day: Inspiring Young Heroes in Saskatoon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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