Tag: spring

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

Welcome, nature explorers!

American Crow Chappell Marsh. West Swale Wetlands. Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK, CA

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps

Best. Names. Evar., kueda

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

A Nature Walk With a Twist: iNaturalist Projects That’ll Make You Laugh

There’s no denying it—nature is full of wonders, but sometimes, it’s downright hilarious. From funny animal names to quirky behaviors, nature has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. And if you’re looking for a way to brighten your day (and maybe even get a good giggle), look no further than iNaturalist and its delightful collection of fun and quirky citizen science projects.

Whether you’re a seasoned iNat enthusiast or a newbie just beginning to explore, these whimsical projects will bring some unexpected joy and laughter into your nature walks. So, grab your phone, download the iNaturalist app, and dive into these projects that combine science with a good sense of humor! (you can also sign into iNaturalist on your computer)

1. Species with Funny English Common Names

Who says science has to be all serious and stuffy? This project is a treasure trove of hilarious and quirky animal names that will have you chuckling in no time. Have you ever met a Spotted Wobbegong? How about a Ghost Flower? These creatures’ names alone are enough to give you a good laugh, and when you dig deeper, you’ll find that they’re just as fascinating as they are funny. Want to join in? Check out the Species with Funny English Common Names project on iNaturalist, and prepare to be entertained.

2. Best. Names. Ever.

If you think the Spotted Wobbegong is a hoot, you’ll definitely want to check out the Best. Names. Ever. list on iNaturalist. This compilation is full of the most bizarre and amusing names in the animal kingdom, carefully curated by the iNaturalist community. With gems like Goosefoot, Punk Rock Spider, and Yeti Crab, you’ll be in stitches—and maybe even inspired to rename a few critters in your own backyard.

Two great lists to peruse:

Best. Names. Ever., seakay

3. Poof! You Can Only Insult People Using Animal Names

This one is for the truly playful. Imagine a world where the only way you can insult someone is by calling them an animal—pretty fun, right? In this lighthearted project, users share their favorite (and most ridiculous) animal-inspired insults. Think “You big Mantis Shrimp!” or “Quit acting like a Sloth!” It’s a hilarious reminder that sometimes, nature’s quirks are the best punchlines.

Find out more here

4. Nature-Inspired Comics

There’s nothing like a good laugh to brighten your day, and what better way to get that than with some hilarious, nature-inspired comics? The Nature-Inspired Comics collection on iNaturalist is the perfect blend of humor and creativity, offering a collection of funny, quirky, and downright charming illustrations that celebrate the lighter side of the natural world. Who knew plants, animals, and fungi could be so funny?

Check it out here

5. Bird Puns and Fun

Birds are already pretty funny with their funny faces and unique calls, but throw in a good bird pun, and you’ve got comedy gold. Whether it’s a Penguin doing a funny dance or a Hummingbird making you smile with its tiny flits, the Bird Puns and Fun project is the place to be if you enjoy a hearty laugh. With bird puns galore and observations from fellow nature lovers, you’ll be sure to find your funny bone in the feathers.

Don’t take my word for it, check these puns out here!

6. The City Nature Challenge (CNC)

Okay, let’s get serious for a moment—sort of. The City Nature Challenge April 25 – 28, 2025 is an exciting event that invites communities worldwide to explore and document their local nature. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of room for fun! Whether you’re tracking down wildlife in your city or taking pictures of strange plants in your neighborhood, you’re bound to encounter some amusing moments along the way. Plus, as part of a global competition, you can have a little friendly rivalry with other cities, which just adds to the excitement. Ready to participate in a bioblitz that also includes plenty of humor? Check out the CNC project on iNaturalist.

Find out more here!

7. Organisms on or Near Appropriate Signs

Let’s face it—sometimes nature just has a way of showing up in the strangest places. The Organisms on or Near Appropriate Signs project celebrates those hilarious moments when wildlife—be it a bird perched on a parking sign or a plant growing in the middle of a warning sign—decides to make itself known in a particularly funny way. Whether it’s a squirrel on a No Parking sign or a flower growing next to a Caution sign, this project reminds us that nature doesn’t always follow the rules, and that’s half the fun.

If you would like to see this kind of fun, check it out here! Join the project today!

8. Screenshots, Snaps, and Other Silly Images

Sometimes the best nature photos aren’t the perfectly composed ones—they’re the unexpected, silly moments that make you laugh. The Screenshots, Snaps, and Other Silly Images project on iNaturalist celebrates those whimsical and funny snapshots that might not be scientifically important but certainly brighten your day. From funny animal expressions to bizarre plant shapes, this project is all about enjoying the lighter side of nature.

Oh my! This might be something you need to check out.

Take a Moment to Laugh with Nature

Nature is full of surprises, and while it’s easy to get caught up in the seriousness of conservation, biodiversity, and sustainability, sometimes it’s important to step back and enjoy the sheer joy and hilarity that our natural world provides. From funny animal names to quirky observations, these iNaturalist projects offer a delightful way to engage with nature in a fun and lighthearted way.

So, the next time you head outside, be on the lookout for a Spotted Wobbegong or a Ghost Flower. Snap a silly photo, get involved in a project, and remember: nature is not just beautiful and important—it’s also downright funny!

The holiday stretch from Friday, April 19 to Sunday, April 27, 2025, is about to be a whole lot more fun. Not only is it a chance to take a well-deserved break, but it also lines up with two very special celebrations: the 10th birthday of the City Nature Challenge (CNC) from April 25 – 28, 2025, and the 55th birthday of Earth Month! That’s double the reason to celebrate all things wild, wonderful, and green.

What better way to make the most of this rare overlap than by stepping outside and soaking up nature in all its glory? Whether you’re sharing a quiet moment with loved ones or venturing off on your own, this is the perfect time to embrace nature’s quirks, beauty, and occasional oddball charm. It’s the ideal holiday to connect with the outdoors and enjoy the simple, silly, and stunning things nature has to offer. So, grab your boots, smartphone with iNaturalist loaded and binoculars—let’s go explore!

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there are free events!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

Seeing Red: Colorfully Attired Organisms in the City Nature Challenge!

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 is also referred to as the Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx) A Dioecious Catkin or Ament — The Trembling Aspen A Dioecious Catkin or Ament Tim1357 cc2

Red Fox — The Trembling Aspen A Dioecious Catkin or Ament Tim1357 cc2

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps

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

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..”

Show us your spots! City Nature Challenge 2025

Springtime in Saskatchewan brings new life, and what better way to celebrate the season than by getting outside and exploring the fascinating world of spots in nature? As Easter break overlaps with the City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE 2025), taking place from April 25 to April 28, 2025, we’ve got the perfect way to reconnect with nature—by documenting the incredible wildlife and plants around us!

The Spotty Challenge
The City Nature Challenge isn’t just about discovering all the amazing wildlife in our area—it’s about contributing to a global effort to protect biodiversity. Today, right now, we’re focusing on one quirky theme: Spots. From ladybugs to leopard frogs, birds to beetles, there are countless organisms in Saskatchewan that sport spots in some form. Even leaves with egg spots count! We invite you to think about which organisms in your neighborhood have those signature markings and share your findings with the world.

When you think of “spots” in Saskatchewan, what comes to mind? Perhaps you’ll find lady beetles, Northern Flickers, or even the distinctive markings of a Northern Leopard Frog. Look closely at the plants and fungi around you too—there’s a lot more to spots than meets the eye. We’re all eager to see what you discover and share with the CNC community.

Species at risk: Mormon Metalmark (Apodemia mormo) butterfly depends on buckwheat host plant.

The City Nature Challenge 2025: Celebrate Nature and Earth Month

The CNC YXE 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the City Nature Challenge and the 55th birthday of Earth Month. What better way to celebrate than by being part of a global movement dedicated to documenting and understanding nature? During Easter Break, while you’re enjoying some time off from school or work, step outside with your smartphone and explore. Use the iNaturalist app to record and photograph wild organisms you find—whether in your yard, at the bus stop, along the sidewalk, or in local parks. Every contribution adds to our understanding of local biodiversity and supports conservation efforts worldwide.

How to Participate

Create an iNaturalist account: The iNaturalist app is your main tool for documenting wildlife. It’s easy to use and helps you track your observations while contributing to a global database.
- Download the iNaturalist app on Apple or Android.
- Need help getting started? Check out the iNaturalist tutorial to learn how to upload your observations and make the most of the app.
Join the CNC YXE 2025 Project:
By joining the City Nature Challenge project, you’ll receive updates and be able to monitor how we’re doing compared to other communities. You can even check out observations from around the world and track our progress in real time.
Observe & Upload (April 25–28):
The observation phase of the CNC will run from April 25–28. Go outside and find as many wild organisms as you can—be they plants, fungi, animals, or even critters with spots! You can upload your photos to iNaturalist and contribute to global biodiversity data.
Help with Identification (April 29–May 4):
Once the observation phase ends, the identification phase begins! Help identify species by reviewing observations made by others. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned nature enthusiast, there’s always something new to learn and contribute. Not sure what something is? Don’t worry! iNaturalist’s computer vision can assist in making suggestions.

Why Should You Participate?
The CNC is more than just a fun outdoor activity—it’s a chance to connect with your local environment, build a community around nature, and make meaningful contributions to global conservation. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature as a family during the Easter break! Whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned naturalist, there’s always something new to discover.

Plus, the competition is friendly! The CNC fosters a sense of community and collaboration, encouraging people from all backgrounds to join in and contribute. Whether you’re at home or on a nature walk, your observations will help paint a picture of the incredible biodiversity in our area.

Let’s Make This Year’s CNC the Best Yet!
As Saskatoon and surrounding areas enjoy their Easter break from April 19 to April 27, now is the perfect time to step into nature and start documenting. From backyard bugs to birds in the sky, spots are everywhere—and we want to see them all! Share your findings, join the global conversation, and help us celebrate both Earth Month 55th birthday and the City Nature Challenge’s 10th birthday.

Don’t forget to tag your observations with the #CNCYXE2025 and #spotty to share your spotty discoveries and help us show the world just how vibrant our local biodiversity really is!

Happy spotting!

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there are free events!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps

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

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

Show Us Your Blues!

Ah, blue—the color of the sky, the ocean, and, surprisingly, the least common color in nature. So, have you ever stopped to wonder just how many organisms out there are actually blue? Well, here’s your chance to play detective! With Easter Break coinciding perfectly with the City Nature Challenge (April 25 – 28, 2025), why not head out into nature and celebrate both the 10th anniversary of the City Nature Challenge and the 55th birthday of Earth Month by hunting down some beautiful blue specimens?

What is the City Nature Challenge, anyway?
It’s a global event where people from cities around the world come together to record the biodiversity around them. Participants use the iNaturalist app to document as many wild organisms—plants, fungi, animals, and more—as they can, while contributing to valuable data that scientists can use for conservation and research. This is where the fun begins!

But here’s the twist—during the City Nature Challenge let us know what you find in nature with a focus on all things “blue”. It’s kind of like playing “I spy with my little eye, I see something blue” in nature…. And it doesn’t have to be a full-on blue creature or plant. As long as the primary color is blue, you’re good to go! Think about that gorgeous Blue-winged Teal, the rich blue of a dragonfly’s wings, or the striking blue feathers of a Blue Jay. Perhaps you’ll spot a butterfly from the blues subfamily, or even a stunning blue flower like the Easter Pasque flower. Can you picture it?

If you’re feeling excited, there’s also an iNaturalist project dedicated to all things blue! You can join the project here: Blue on iNaturalist, where you can track your findings and compare with what others have observed.

So, What Will You Find?
As you venture outdoors, consider how you can spot blue in your local landscape. Birds and arthropods are often the stars of the show when it comes to blue hues—perhaps a Northern Blue butterfly or the iridescent blue of a fly’s body. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a blue dragonfly skimming across a pond or a bluebird perched atop a tree.

But the challenge isn’t just about what you find, it’s about engaging with nature on a deeper level. Have you ever thought about how the rarity of blue might influence how we perceive the color in nature? Given its scarcity, every blue organism feels like a little treasure. And there’s something undeniably magical about spotting a creature in this rare hue. Whether it’s the splash of blue in a butterfly’s wings or the glint of blue feathers peeking through the trees, nature’s blues are worth celebrating.

How to Participate
Here’s the scoop:

Observe as many wild organisms as possible from April 25 to 28. Head outdoors, camera in hand (or iPhone with the iNaturalist app), and begin documenting your blue sightings. You’ll record everything from birds and insects to flowers and fungi—all with a dash of blue!
Upload your findings to iNaturalist and be part of a global database helping scientists track biodiversity.
Identification Phase: From April 29 to May 4, 2025, help identify the species others have observed. Don’t worry if you’re not a botanist or entomologist—iNaturalist’s helpful AI can suggest species, and you can always learn from others!

In addition to the online component, there are four free in-person nature walks where you can explore local blue wildlife and contribute to the project. You can even join the City Nature Challenge community to track progress in Saskatoon and beyond!

What’s Blue in Saskatchewan?
In Saskatchewan, blue is a bit of a rarity, but that makes it all the more exciting when you spot it! Keep your eyes peeled for bluebirds fluttering across the prairies or blue dragonflies darting around wetlands. The sparkling wings of a blue damselfly or the cobalt feathers of a Blue Jay could appear on your adventures. You might even find a bluebell flower or another blue flower blooming in your backyard!

Blue organisms may not be as common as their red or green counterparts, but they’re a reminder of how incredibly diverse—and beautiful—nature truly is. And by participating in the City Nature Challenge, you’re not just observing; you’re helping protect this fragile biodiversity and connecting with your community in a meaningful way.

Join the Fun
Are you ready to show us your blue? Don’t just sit there—grab your smartphone, create your iNaturalist account, and start looking for all the shades of blue in your backyard, at the park, or on a trail near you. Let’s see how many blue organisms we can find together this Easter break, all while celebrating the beauty of nature and the power of citizen science.

See you out there—let’s make this year’s City Nature Challenge the most colorful yet! 🌍💙 Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there are free events!

Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias 42-52" (105-130 cm) four feet standing. — Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps

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

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..”

“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 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

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps

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

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 Amidst the Wild

Gratitude Amidst the Wild
For the City Nature Challenge Volunteers

There are moments, fleeting,
when the earth hums its quiet tune—
a bird’s wing cutting through morning light,
a leaf trembling on the edge of the breeze.
In these moments, we gather—
gathering not just images,
but pieces of something much larger.

We, the quiet stewards of this land,
owe so much to those who walked with us—
the volunteers, the naturalists,
who wandered through spring’s awakening,
gathering the breath of the river,
the flutter of wings, the dance of leaves.

You, whose eyes caught the hidden wonders,
whose hands took notes on the sky’s shifts,
whose hearts beat in time with the wind.
From every corner of Saskatoon,
you came forward,
silent but strong,
to witness what others often miss.
And in your quiet work,
you have taught us again
how deeply we belong to this place.

We offer our thanks,
soft as the wind that stirs the trees,
to SaskTel, SaskPower, and SaskEnergy—
your steady support has turned this vision
into a living, breathing thing.
To the Saskatoon Nature Society,
with your deep roots in this land,
and “Wild About Saskatoon”—
with your love for the wild places
that keep this city’s heart beating.

In the quiet corners,
the hidden spaces where the world’s wonders bloom—
your names echo through the grass,
in the rustling trees,
the songs of birds,
the pulse of life that we,
too often, forget to hear.

The City Nature Challenge is not just an event,
but a gathering of those
who choose to walk with nature,
to listen to her whispers,
to care for what we can never truly own.
From April 25 to 28, 2025,
we will walk together once again,
side by side with you,
as we continue this shared journey.

We thank you,
with every step,
with every leaf that falls,
with every new bud that blooms—
for this partnership,
this communion,
this love for the land.

a poem for April Poetry Month from Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas friendsareas.ca

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps

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

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 to Wild About Saskatoon

We, the keepers of the afforestation,
who tend the green places where the trees hum,
and the wild grasses bow in the wind,
we rise up in quiet awe,
watching you—Wild About Saskatoon—
a steady breath of solidarity,
unfolding like the first tender leaf of spring.

You, whose hearts are rooted deep in this land,
whose eyes, trained to see the smallest of wonders,
offer your hands in friendship,
in support, in partnership.
How quietly you have worked beside us,
walking in the brush and the quiet places,
guiding the Saskatoon nature discoveries
with such patient care,
with such joy,
so that all may see what we see
in the tangled roots of trees,
in the rustle of leaves,
in the flight of birds.

From April 25 to April 28, 2025,
we will walk together,
side by side with you,
along trails where the sun filters
through the new leaves,
where the river dances over the rocks,
and the world whispers its secrets.
We, the organizers,
your fellow dreamers and protectors of wild things,
hold our gratitude for the ways
you have brought this vision to life.
Your tireless hands have lifted the heart of this project,
allowing it to bloom into something more—
a community, a shared experience,
a celebration of the creatures and the earth
that sustain us all.

Wild About Saskatoon,
you have shown us what it means
to walk not in isolation but in partnership,
to listen not just to the wind but to the world,
to offer ourselves in service to the living pulse
of nature that beats through this city.
You’ve given us the strength to continue,
to carry this challenge forward,
to celebrate the small and the great,
the known and the unseen,
the creatures who crawl,
the birds who sing,
the trees who stretch toward the sky.

We, too, are honored—
honored to stand beside you,
to share this path,
to lift this call into the hands of the people of Saskatoon.
For in your spirit, we have found
a like-hearted kinship,
a mutual love for this land,
a deep and unspoken connection.

So here is our thanks,
our deepest, most heartfelt gratitude,
for your unwavering support,
for your love of nature,
for the way you make this world shine
a little brighter,
a little kinder,
with each step you take.

Together, we will celebrate,
together we will walk,
together we will see
and preserve
this great and wild city.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

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

Support via Zeffy

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

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

Support using Canada Helps