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.comFacebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

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

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

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

BlueSky Social

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Support via Zeffy

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

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

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

The Rhythm of Seasons: Understanding Phenology through Weather and Traditional Knowledge

In the heart of the natural world, where seasons weave their magic into every leaf and breeze, lies the profound connection between weather and life cycles. Imagine stepping into a landscape where the shifting seasons narrate the story of nature’s intricate dance. This is where phenology—the study of the seasonal timing of life cycle events—comes to life, guiding us through the seasonal transitions with remarkable precision.

As temperatures rise and fall, the seasonal rhythm dictates the blooming of flowers, the migration of animals, and the emergence of new life. In temperate regions, this rhythm is driven by accumulated heat and daylight, creating a predictable pattern that signals when certain events will occur. From the earliest leaf buds of spring to the final leaf fall of autumn, phenological events mark the passage of time in the natural world.

Traditional Phenological Knowledge (TPK), passed down through generations of Indigenous peoples, offers a rich tapestry of understanding about these seasonal rhythms. This knowledge is embedded in cultural practices and beliefs, linking the life cycles of plants and animals with the cycles of the seasons. For instance, the blooming of wild roses signifies the readiness of soapberries (Shepherdia canadensis, Canada buffaloberry, russet buffaloberry, soopolallie, or foamberry)  for harvest to be made into soap or Indigenous ice cream, also known as sxusem, while the appearance of buffalo beans (Thermopsis rhombifolia) marks the return of bison to their grazing grounds. Such observations not only guide subsistence activities but also reflect a deep connection with the environment.

Shepherdia argentea, commonly called silver buffaloberry bull berry, or thorny buffaloberry. CC-BY-SA-3.0 credit Julia Adamson
Shepherdia argentea, commonly called silver buffaloberry bull berry, or thorny buffaloberry. CC-BY-SA-3.0 credit Julia Adamson

In mid-summer, when Saskatoon berries (Amelanchier alnifolia), known as smisâskwatômina or “the fruit of the tree of many branches” in Plains Cree, reach their peak ripeness, the bands of the tribe would gather for the Sun Dance. This major tribal ceremony was a Rite of Intensification, uniting the loosely organized tribal bands in a single location. Following this communal gathering, the bands would disperse to their wintering areas, while the bison began their seasonal migration into the region. Drawn by the availability of water and richer forage compared to the dried summer grasses, the bison’s arrival signalled a shift in the landscape, marking the start of a new phase in the seasonal cycle.

Phenological indicators, like the timing of plant flowering or animal behaviors, serve as biological timepieces, providing insight into the health of ecosystems and the impact of changing weather conditions. For example, bison once roamed the grasslands of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, their movements and seasonal behaviors intricately linked to the environment. During rutting season, the rough bark of trees became a crucial element in their courtship rituals. The scent marks left behind served as silent invitations to potential mates, while the bison’s thick fur played a role in seed dispersal and soil enrichment. Seeds from plants such as buffalo grass and the burrs from Wild Licorice clung to their hair as they move, enabling these plants to colonize new areas. American licorice is highly promising for the restoration of degraded and barren lands.

The interaction between weather patterns—temperature, wind speed, sunlight, precipitation, and humidity—and these natural cycles is profound. Rainfall patterns can trigger the onset of flowering or animal migration, demonstrating how weather influences ecological events. As Richard St. Barbe Baker’s work on the Sahara Desert, and Dr. Paul Schreiber’s research highlights, forests and their transpiration processes can influence local rainfall patterns, similar to the effects of elevated terrain. Additionally, the timing of the southern cottonwood’s seed release signals the spawning of pickerel, illustrating the interconnectedness of species and their environment.

However, not all ecosystems thrive under changing conditions. Prairie chickens, or pinnated grouse, have seen their populations diminish to rare habitats. These grouse depended on seasonal grazing by bison—a keystone or indicator species — that helped “open the grass”—and their decline paralleled the decline of bison herds.

Traditional knowledge and modern scientific research provide complementary perspectives on these ecological changes. Richard St. Barbe Baker’s desertification work, and Rudolph Geiger’s pioneering work on microclimates and the observations of Indigenous peoples underscore the importance of understanding how seasonal changes affect ecosystems. By integrating these insights, we gain a holistic view of climate impacts and can develop more effective conservation strategies.

As we navigate the complexities of a changing climate, the wisdom embedded in traditional knowledge offers valuable insights into the natural world. Respecting and integrating these perspectives with modern science enhances our understanding of the delicate balance of seasons and their impact on our environment.

So, as you observe the shifting seasons and the life cycles they bring, remember the profound connections that weave through the natural world. Each season, each weather pattern, and each phenological event tells a story of life, change, and resilience. How would phenological cycles help to monitor and adapt to climate change?

Inquiry-Based Learning Activities

1. Phenology Exploration Project:

  • Activity: Students will research and create a presentation on how different plants and animals respond to seasonal changes. They will use resources like books, videos, and interviews with local experts.
  • Objective: Understand how phenological events, such as blooming or migration, are linked to seasonal changes and weather conditions.

2. Local Weather and Animal Behavior Diary:

  • Activity: Students keep a diary for two weeks, recording daily weather conditions and observing how local animals (e.g., birds, insects) behave. They will then analyze patterns or changes.
  • Objective: Explore the relationship between local weather patterns and animal behavior.

3. Traditional vs. Scientific Weather Indicators:

  • Activity: Compare traditional knowledge (e.g., Indigenous practices) about weather indicators with modern scientific methods. Create a Venn diagram to show similarities and differences.
  • Objective: Examine how traditional knowledge and scientific methods can both contribute to understanding weather impacts on the environment.

4. Bison and Ecosystem Dynamics Model:

  • Activity: Build a model or create a simulation showing how bison affect the environment, including plant growth and soil health, based on seasonal migration patterns.
  • Objective: Understand the role of keystone species like bison in ecosystems and how their behaviors influence the environment.

5. Create a Phenological Calendar:

  • Activity: Develop a calendar that tracks phenological events such as plant blooming, animal migrations, and weather patterns over a year. Include observations and data collected from local wildlife.
  • Objective: Learn to recognize and predict seasonal events and their connection to weather changes.

6. Science and Traditional Knowledge Comparison:

  • Activity: Compare scientific explanations of animal behavior in relation to weather with traditional knowledge from different cultures. Create a Venn diagram to illustrate similarities and differences.
  • Objective: Investigate how science and traditional knowledge can complement each other in understanding animal behavior and weather.

7. Traditional Knowledge Exploration:

  • Activity: Research and present how indigenous peoples historically used animal behaviors to predict weather changes (e.g., how the migration of certain birds indicated seasonal changes).
  • Objective: Explore the role of traditional knowledge in understanding weather and animal behavior.

8. Traditional six season vs. four Seasons Exploration:

  • Activity: Compare and contrast the four seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—with the six traditional seasons recognized by the nêhiyawak (Plains Cree). Students will research and create a visual representation of both seasonal systems. What are the seasonal recognitions by the francophone, Métis, nakawē Saulteaux, and yankton and yanktonai Nakota people?     
  • Objective: Understand different cultural perspectives on seasons and how they influence environmental patterns and human activities.

pipon. It is winter.
sīkwan. It is spring.
miyoskamin. It is spring. Ice break up.
nīpin. It is summer.
takwākin. It is fall.
mikiskāw. It is late fall/first frost. Water freeze up.(Cree language of the Plains)

Related Questions

  1. How do specific weather conditions, such as temperature and rainfall, influence the blooming of plants and the migration patterns of animals?
    • Objective: Explore the impact of weather on plant and animal life cycles.
  2. What did you learn from your local weather and animal behavior diary, and how did the observations help you understand the relationship between weather and animal activities?
    • Objective: Analyze and reflect on how weather influences animal behavior.
  3. How do traditional weather indicators used by Indigenous peoples compare with modern scientific methods in predicting weather and understanding ecological changes?
    • Objective: Compare and contrast traditional knowledge and scientific approaches.
  4. What role do keystone species like bison play in maintaining the health of an ecosystem, and how do their seasonal behaviors impact other species?
    • Objective: Investigate the influence of keystone species on their environment.
  5. In what ways can tracking phenological events help us monitor and adapt to climate change, and how does this approach integrate both traditional and scientific knowledge?
    • Objective: Evaluate the effectiveness of using phenological cycles to understand and respond to climate change.
  6. How do you think the behavior of animals like birds and squirrels changes before and after a rainstorm? Objective: To observe and understand animal behavior in response to weather changes.

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

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

For more information:

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

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

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

Addresses:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

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

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

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

The Dance of Weather: How Trees and Forests Shape Our World

The Dance of Weather: How Trees and Forests Shape Our World

Imagine standing beneath the vast canopy of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or George Genereux Urban Regional Park, where the intricate dance of weather unfolds before your eyes. Here, local weather patterns intertwine with the natural rhythms of the forest, revealing a fascinating interplay between temperature, wind, sunlight, precipitation, humidity, and cloud cover.

As you explore, you’ll notice how the forest responds to various weather conditions. On a sunny day, the temperature rises as the sun’s rays filter through the leafy canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The trees, with their lush foliage, play a crucial role in moderating this heat. They absorb and transpire water, releasing it into the atmosphere and cooling the air around them. Richard St. Barbe Baker once observed, “A high tree will transpire as much as from 100 gallons to 500 gallons of water a day into the air,” illustrating the trees’ vital role in regulating temperature and humidity.

When wind sweeps through the forest, it carries the fresh, earthy scent of the trees and the soft rustle of leaves. The direction and speed of the wind influence how air moves through the forest, dispersing seeds and aiding in pollination. The forest’s microclimate is shaped by these wind patterns, affecting everything from temperature to the distribution of moisture.

Precipitation, whether it falls as rain or snow, is another key player in this dynamic system. When rainstorm clouds gather, the canopy of trees acts as a natural buffer. The leaves and branches intercept and slow down the rainfall, allowing it to gently reach the forest floor. The layer of fallen leaves and humus beneath acts like a sponge, absorbing and slowly releasing water into the soil. This process not only conserves water but also prevents soil erosion and reduces the risk of floods and droughts. Richard St. Barbe Baker noted, “The trees not only conserve water but they also conserve the soil and in this way tend to prevent floods and droughts.”

It is well known that water vapor in the air, when forced to rise by mountain ranges, cools, condenses, and falls as rain; water transpired by forests has a similar cooling effect on the air and ‘seeds’ rain clouds. Dr. Paul Schreiber, a meteorologist who conducted extensive research in this field, concluded that a region covered by forest increases rainfall to the same degree as elevating the region by approximately 650 feet. Other observers maintain that the vertical influence of the forest can extend to thousands of feet. Forests also protect the soil from desiccating winds, with their beneficial influence extending up to thirty times their average height. This underscores the role of forests in creating rain within a locality and region, highlighting the importance of treating the hydrologic and climate-cooling effects of trees and forests as a top priority.

Cloud cover and relative humidity are essential in maintaining the forest’s balance. On cloudy days, the forest enjoys a respite from the sun’s intense heat, while high humidity levels help sustain the forest’s diverse plant and animal life. The interplay of these weather elements influences the growth and health of the forest, highlighting the interconnectedness of weather and ecosystem.

Pioneering research by Rudolph Geiger in Germany established microclimatology as a significant field of study which revealed that distinct microclimates are determined by canopy cover, species composition, rain interception, and dew formation, among other factors. This research has helped us understand the profound impact of forests on local and regional climates.

On a broader scale, understanding local, national, and global weather patterns helps us address various weather-related challenges. Air movement and solar energy transfer drive global weather systems, influencing everything from seasonal changes to extreme weather events. By studying these patterns, scientists can better predict and prepare for weather impacts on society and the environment.

The wisdom of Richard St. Barbe Baker reminds us of the profound relationship between trees, water, and weather. He observed, “Men and trees, water and trees, man and water are inseparable. This is the trinity of life.” The health of our forests is intrinsically linked to the stability of our climate and the well-being of our communities.

Watch and observe weather signs in the forest, when the leaves of a trembling aspen turn over, it’s a sign that rain is on its way. Dandelion flowers love the sunshine and close up when it’s cloudy or rainy making another excellent weather forecaster.

1. Weather and Community Impact Research Project:

  • Activity: Investigate how short- and long-term weather forecasts are used in your community. Create a presentation on how local weather affects daily activities such as choosing food, clothing, and transportation. For example; How do you think year(s) of drought or year(s) of spring flooding, or summer(s) of rains would affect the Saskatoon berry plant, misaskwatomin (nêhiyawak Plains Cree), gozigwaakomin (nakawē Saulteaux), wípazutkȟaŋ / wipazuka(yankton and yanktonai Nakota people), lii pwayr (Michif language of the Métis), L’Amélanchier à feuilles d’aulne ou Aronie fleuri (Français language of the francophone or French speaking people)
  • Objective: Understand the practical applications of weather forecasting in daily life and its impact on community decisions.

2. Traditional Weather Terms Exploration:

  • Activity: Research weather-related vocabulary in different languages, including Francophone, Métis, nêhiyawak (Plains Cree), Nakawē Saulteaux, and Yankton Nakota. Create a bilingual weather glossary to display and/or a poster with images.
  • Objective: Learn about the cultural significance and diversity of weather terms across different languages.

3. Forest Weather Interaction Investigation:

  • Activity: Conduct a field study in a local forest area to observe how different weather conditions affect trees and the surrounding ecosystem. Document findings and compare them with the observations of Richard St. Barbe Baker and Dr. Paul Schreiber.
  • Objective: Explore the relationship between weather patterns and forest ecosystems.

4. Long-Term Weather Effects Analysis:

  • Activity: Research how long-term changes in weather have affected local, national, and global communities. Create a timeline or infographic showing these impacts on different regions.
  • Objective: Examine the broader effects of weather changes on societies and environments around the world.

5. Organism -plant and animal- Behavior and Weather Patterns Study:

  • Activity: Observe local organisms and their behaviors in response to changing weather conditions. Compare these observations with the behaviors of organisms mentioned in the story, such as the trembling aspen and dandelion flowers.
  • Objective: Understand how animals adapt to weather changes and how this knowledge can be used to predict weather patterns.

Related Questions

  1. How do short- and long-term weather forecasts influence daily activities and decisions in your community?
    • Objective: Explore the practical applications of weather forecasts.
  2. What are some traditional weather terms used in different languages, and how do they reflect cultural perspectives on weather?
    • Objective: Investigate the diversity and significance of weather-related vocabulary.
  3. In what ways do different weather conditions impact the health and functioning of forest ecosystems, as observed by Richard St. Barbe Baker and Dr. Paul Schreiber?
    • Objective: Understand the relationship between weather patterns and forest health.
  4. How have long-term changes in weather affected local and global communities, and what are some examples of these impacts?
    • Objective: Analyze the broader effects of weather changes on societies and environments.
  5. How do the behaviors of local animals in response to weather conditions compare to those described in the story, such as the trembling aspen and dandelion flowers?
    • Objective: Explore how animal behaviors reflect weather patterns and contribute to our understanding of meteorology.

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

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

For more information:

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

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

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

Addresses:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

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

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

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Embracing the Wonders of the Solar Eclipse: A Spectacular Event Unfolding in Saskatchewan

As the April 8 solar eclipse approaches, the anticipation builds for a celestial event that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who witness it. Across Saskatchewan, people are preparing to gather in places like the afforestation areas to experience the magic of this rare phenomenon.

Did you know that solar eclipses have far-reaching effects beyond the visual spectacle? According to Victor Trees et al, the clouds affected by solar eclipses could alter sunlight reflection and even impact local precipitation patterns. Nature India reports that these eclipses cause a substantial decrease in solar irradiance, leading to atmospheric changes such as cooling temperatures and increased humidity.

At its peak, the eclipse will cast a shadow over Saskatchewan, offering a unique opportunity for scientific observation and personal reflection. Organizations like Queen’s University are sending eclipse ambassadors to schools, educating students about the event’s significance and guiding them in safe observation techniques.

The Audubon Society encourages people to pay attention to animal behavior during the eclipse, noting that when the moon covers the sun, animals may exhibit unusual reactions. This shared experience invites us to connect with nature and each other, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the world around us.

While Saskatchewan will only experience a partial eclipse, the magnitude of the event remains profound. As the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, creating a momentary darkness, we are reminded of the vastness and complexity of our universe.

Begins:Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 11:53 am
Maximum:Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 12:52 pm 0.453 Magnitude
Ends:Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 1:52 pm
Saskatchewan Partial Solar Eclipse times April 8 2024

For those fortunate enough to be in the eclipse’s path, it’s a chance to embrace the awe and wonder of the cosmos. Take a moment to tune out distractions and focus on the shared joy of the experience. In doing so, we honor the work of organizations like the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, who cultivate a love of science and nature, enriching lives and creating lasting memories for all. Please come outside and witness this unique phenomena, and check if it affects nature and wildlife in Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas, Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park!

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

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

For more information:

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

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

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

Addresses:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

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

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

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

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

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Mix: friendsareas

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

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Trees Need Not Walk the Earth

Trees Need Not Walk the Earth, and, yet we as humans do, and partake of the beauty of the tree.

Take your pants for a walk day July 27, what a fantastic idea! A great way to get outside, and get some exercise after being cooped up with COVID protocols for so long.

Enjoy the afforestation areas, and have a great time.

Trees Need Not Walk the Earth

David Rosenthal

Trees need not walk the earth  
For beauty or for bread;  
Beauty will come to them  
Where they stand.  
Here among the children of the sap
Is no pride of ancestry:  
A birch may wear no less the morning  
Than an oak.  
Here are no heirlooms  
Save those of loveliness, 
In which each tree  
Is kingly in its heritage of grace.  
Here is but beauty’s wisdom  
In which all trees are wise.  
Trees need not walk the earth 
For beauty or for bread;  
Beauty will come to them  
In the rainbow—  
The sunlight—  
And the lilac-haunted rain;
And bread will come to them  
As beauty came:  
In the rainbow—  
In the sunlight—  
In the rain.

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park
For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
For more information:
Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits
NEW P4G District Official Community Plan
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map
Pinterest richardstbarbeb
Blogger: FriendsAfforestation
Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.comFacebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Facebook: South West OLRA
Reddit: FriendsAfforestation
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Mix: friendsareas

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Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Donate your vehicle to Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.  to raise funds for afforestation areas. Click here to find out more. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date! Canada Helps

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

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

Richard St. Barbe Baker

The environment is where we all meet; where we all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share.

Lady Bird Johnson
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