springtime – 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

A Close Call: Fire, Forests, and the Power of Vigilance

Last night, just as the sun dipped behind the horizon, the west side of Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area lit up — not from the golden hues of a prairie sunset, but from the angry, orange glow of a raging fire. In the heart of our springtime renewal, police and fire crews raced to the scene. Thanks to their quick action — and a police helicopter overhead guiding fire trucks through the quickest routes to the fire location just to the north of Cedar Villa Estates, and west of the wetlands — a disaster was narrowly averted.

Fires which start during the day — a careless spark, a smouldering cigarette butt, a moment of negligence and carelessness in these dry, windy spring conditions — but by nightfall, they can grow into roaring infernos. This was the case last evening just before midnight. The proximity of the fire to the SaskPower Right of Way posed an additional grave threat: high-voltage transmission lines carrying critical electricity from the Queen Elizabeth Power Station run through this area. If these lines had been compromised, the resulting power outages could have devastated nearby communities, affecting homes, hospitals, emergency services, and businesses across Saskatoon and beyond. Imagine an entire evening, even days, without power — no lights, no heating, no communications — all from a fire that might have started with a single careless action.

At this time, thankfully, no personal injuries were reported, no first responders were injured or lost their lives, no property was damaged. We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to our first responders for their swift, brave work. Yet this close call is a stark reminder: stewardship of our natural areas is not just about protecting plants and animals. It is about protecting the people, the communities, and the very lifelines that sustain us.

Spring, for all its beauty, carries hidden dangers. Dry grasses, leftover debris, and brisk seasonal winds turn greenspaces into tinderboxes. Cedar Villa Estates lies just a stone’s throw from the afforestation area, and nearby CNR rail tracks haul cargo essential to daily life as well as flammable materials. A single spark in these conditions can endanger homes, ecosystems, and livelihoods in a flash. It’s a stark reminder that fires can escalate beyond our control faster than we ever imagine – and there are no fire departments across the street from the forest- so we all must remain careful and vigilant.

In this dry spring with brisk prairie winds, we ask everyone who visits the afforestation areas to be vigilant stewards of the land. Protect the rich biodiversity, human users, the songbirds, the fox kits, the wildflowers, and the wetlands teeming with unseen life. Did you know, over 62 species at risk call this place home — from tiny pollinators to majestic hawks. If you see suspicious activity, report it. If you spot a fire, call 911 immediately.

And while you’re outside helping to protect nature, why not celebrate it, too? Take part in the City Nature Challenge — download the free iNaturalist app and snap photos of any living organism you spot. Together, we can nurture and safeguard the wild heart of Saskatoon.

Stay safe, stay watchful, and thank you for being part of the solution.

According to The Guardian, humanity has already wiped out 60% of mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles since 1970. This alarming decline in wildlife populations has led experts to warn that the annihilation of wildlife is now an emergency that threatens civilization itself. — Fire. File Photo.

City of Saskatoon Bylaw No 7990 The Fire and Protective Services Bylaw, — Fire. File Photo.

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

Don’t Let the City Nature Challenge End Without You: Get Out, Observe, and Have Fun!

Today is Sunday, April 27 – the third day of the City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE) in Saskatoon! Don’t despair just yet, though; there’s still time to get involved in the fun. The great news? You don’t need to be an expert in nature or even know the difference between a squirrel and a chipmunk (we’ve all been there). All you need is your curiosity, your smartphone, and the iNaturalist app, which is your perfect companion for this fantastic outdoor adventure!

The City Nature Challenge is in full swing, and there’s no better way to spend the final day of Easter break (April 19–April 27) than with a nature hike in your own neighborhood. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned nature observer, the CNC is for everyone. And, if you’re looking for one last outdoor event to close out your weekend, the last scheduled event for today awaits you! But even if you can’t make it, it’s still the perfect day to get outside, take a walk, and discover the quirky, hilarious, and downright delightful surprises nature has to offer.

So, what should you keep an eye out for? Let me take you through a list of some of the wackiest, most amusing iNaturalist nature hike ideas that will add some serious fun to your outdoor adventure. These are just a few of the things you might come across as you stroll through the wonders of our local ecosystems:

1. The Most Unlikely Places to Find Wildlife:
You’ll be amazed at where critters can show up – a frog in a tree stump, a bird hiding in a bush, or even a snail taking a nap under a park bench. Nature doesn’t play by the rules!

2. Bizarre Plant Behavior:
Plants can be downright hilarious when you stop to watch them! Ever caught a sunflower turning its head to follow the sun like it’s checking in on an old friend? Or seen a plant that looks like it’s dancing in the breeze? That’s nature showing off its quirkiest side.

3. The Microbe Chronicles:
Okay, so you might not see these tiny creatures with your naked eye, but don’t let that stop you! They are all around you, living in the dirt, on tree trunks, and in the water. With a little imagination, the world of microbes is nothing short of magical.

4. Wild Things Found in the Oddest Places:
Maybe you’ll spot a bird perched on top of a fence post or a raccoon peeking out of an abandoned building. These are the creatures that make you think, “How did you even get there?” Nature knows no boundaries when it comes to location.

Are these not the most entertaining, unexpected, and inspiring observations you can make? The City Nature Challenge encourages you to look at the world through fresh eyes. Every rock, every leaf, and every inch of your environment holds potential for discovery and laughter.

Remember, the purpose of the CNC isn’t just to observe – it’s also to contribute to a global project that connects people to nature, to each other, and to science. By downloading the iNaturalist app, you become part of a worldwide community dedicated to documenting biodiversity. Plus, it’s a great way to keep track of all those funny moments that happen during your outdoor explorations.

While students are wrapping up their Easter Break (a glorious 9-day stretch of nature-filled fun from April 19 to April 27), the City Nature Challenge presents an incredible opportunity for all of us to connect with the great outdoors, discover wild organisms, and take part in citizen science. Whether you’re participating in one of today’s events or just taking a casual hike, your observations can contribute valuable data to the global effort to track biodiversity.

But wait, there’s more!

Let’s not forget that 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the City Nature Challenge AND the 55th birthday of Earth Month. That’s two monumental reasons to get involved and show the planet some love while having a great time! The spirit of these celebrations is all about embracing the unexpected, celebrating the joy of discovery, and marveling at the oddities and wonders nature has to offer.

It’s a race against time, but there’s no need to rush – you can upload your observations to iNaturalist until May 4, 2025. So, if you’re out for one last nature walk or observing wildlife in your backyard, just snap your photos and start identifying those species. If you’re unsure about what you’ve spotted, no worries! iNaturalist’s AI-powered identification tool will give you suggestions, and the iNaturalist community will help refine your observations.

Not only will you be part of an amazing global movement, but you might also discover some hilarious and heartwarming stories about the organisms you encounter. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing a chipmunk nibble on an acorn or a ladybug take a leisurely stroll across a leaf.

So, why not make the most of today and dive into one last adventure before the weekend ends? Whether you’re joining a City Nature Challenge event or simply venturing out on your own, there’s always something new to learn and laugh about in the great outdoors.

Download the iNaturalist app, open your eyes to the world around you, and let the fun begin!

Happy observing, and see you out there!

Come to Nature, Come to Life! …and there are still free events to attend – Sunday afternoon, and Monday evening!

_{Photo by Matthias Cooper on Pexels.com}

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

Saskatchewan’s Feathered Fliers: A Call to Arms for Bird Conservation

The warmth of spring unfurls across the prairie lands, our avian friends embark on one of nature’s most awe-inspiring journeys – migration. However, amidst their majestic flights, many birds face an unexpected peril: collisions with windows. It’s a silent threat, but one that takes a heavy toll on our feathered companions.

Thankfully, communities across Canada are stepping up to mitigate this issue, and two initiatives stand out: the Calgary Urban Species Response Team and the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge.

The Calgary Urban Species Response Team, affectionately known as “CURST,” has launched a noble campaign to count bird window strikes during the crucial spring migration period, from April 1 to the end of May. They invite citizens to dim their lights and join their efforts. It’s a simple yet effective way to contribute to bird conservation.

But why stop there? In Saskatoon, another opportunity awaits. The Saskatoon City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE) beckons citizens to record bird strikes hitting windows through the iNaturalist app. This grassroots effort aims to turn the spotlight on an often-overlooked issue and empower individuals to become stewards of nature.

In the words of EcoFriendly West, the driving force behind these endeavors, it’s about being the voice for nature. It’s about taking action, joining hands, and making a difference.

So, why should we care about bird-window collisions? Beyond the immediate loss of precious avian life, these incidents have ripple effects across ecosystems. Birds play pivotal roles as pollinators, seed dispersers, and pest controllers. Their decline could disrupt delicate ecological balances, with far-reaching consequences for both flora and fauna.

Moreover, this issue hits close to home in Saskatchewan. Our province boasts a rich tapestry of bird species. Each window strike represents not just a statistic but a potential loss to our natural heritage.

However, there’s hope in collective action. By participating in initiatives like CURST and CNC YXE, we can turn the tide against bird-window collisions. Simple measures like applying decals to windows, installing bird-friendly glass, or dimming lights during migration periods can make a world of difference.

Ultimately, it’s about fostering a culture of coexistence between humans and wildlife. As stewards of this land, it’s our responsibility to ensure that future generations inherit a world where birds continue to grace our skies.

So, let’s heed the call of EcoFriendly West. Let’s turn out our lights, record bird strikes, and become the voice for nature. Together, we can make this a Saskatoon happening and pave the way for a brighter, bird-friendly future in Saskatchewan.

In the words of Rachel Carson, the pioneer of modern environmentalism, “In nature, nothing exists alone.” Let’s ensure that our feathered friends continue to thrive alongside us, enriching our lives with their beauty and grace.

Baird's Sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii) — Baird’s Sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii)

Savannah sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis — Baird’s Sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii)

City Nature Challenge – A Call to Action: April 26 – April 29, 2024, marks the City Nature Challenge—an opportunity to immerse oneself in nature and document its wonders. From wild plants to insects, birds, mushrooms, and more, participants capture the essence of living organisms and life remnants. With thanks to our sponsors and supporters SaskPower, SaskTel, Saskatoon Nature Society, Wild About Saskatoon, Varsity View Community Association, Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, SOS Trees, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

Nature’s Path to Wellness: Walk, Observe, Thrive on World Health Day.

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