Tree Legacy – Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life.

Seeker, whose science o’ermasters the spirit’s despair-
Teacher, whose truth mounts to heaven in worship and prayer,-
Prophet, whose deeds are a witness of faith, free and strong-
But to gain, from they life and they love, benediction, dear friend,
To hallow my labor with graces thy presence can lend.

–Charles August Keeler

Unveiling the Green Guardian: Richard St. Barbe Baker’s Humanitarian Odyssey

In the realm of global environmentalism and humanitarianism, one name stands tall—a guardian of the Earth, Richard St. Barbe Baker. On this World Humanitarian Day, we delve into the extraordinary life and impactful legacy of a man who dedicated his life to saving lives, nurturing the planet, and sowing the seeds of hope.

Kenya: The Roots of Dedication

St. Barbe Baker’s journey began with a profound realization during his biology and botany studies at Cambridge and his familial background with his father who was involved and invested in the community as a pastor. Witnessing the devastating effects of deforestation in Africa—soil loss, habitat decline, and biodiversity loss—Baker recognized the urgent need for reforestation. In 1922, he established a tree nursery in Kenya, partnering with the Kikuyu people to initiate managed reforestation, giving birth to the “Watu wa Miti” (People of the Trees) society.

Bahá’í Faith and Advocacy

Returning to England, St. Barbe Baker’s advocacy caught the attention of Claudia Stewart Coles, leading him to embrace the Bahá’í Faith in 1924. His dedication to living religions became the foundation for the Men of the Trees, an organization that would later become the International Tree Foundation. Despite being discharged from duties in Nigeria for defending an African man against abuse, his journey continued.

Palestine and Global Influence

St. Barbe Baker’s impact extended to Palestine, where he collaborated with Shoghi Effendi, head of the Bahá’í Faith. Their alliance garnered support from Muslim, Jewish, and Christian leaders, fostering a reforestation program. His travels took him to America, where he toured Redwood groves, authored books, and championed the Save the Redwoods campaign, earning national acclaim.

Green Front and Sahara Challenge

Post-World War II, St. Barbe Baker envisioned an international Green Front for global reforestation. His most audacious challenge was the strategic planting of trees to reclaim the Sahara Desert. A 25,000-mile expedition in 1952–3 paved the way for the African Union’s Great Green Wall project today.

Legacy and International Tree Foundation

The Men of the Trees evolved into the International Tree Foundation, boasting chapters in over 100 countries. St. Barbe Baker’s efforts, along with those of Sir Robert McCarrison and Sir Albert Howard, are considered foundational to the organic agriculture movement. His community recognition, awards, and advocacy for a plant-based diet underscore his commitment.

Honors and Farewell

In 1971, the University of Saskatchewan honored St. Barbe Baker with a Doctor of Laws degree. In 1978, Queen Elizabeth II appointed him Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). Richard St. Barbe Baker’s journey concluded on June 9, 1982, in Saskatoon, where he planted his last tree just days before bidding farewell.

On this World Humanitarian Day, we pay homage to a dedicated servant of humanity with roots in Saskatoon, a green guardian whose legacy of love for the planet and its people continues to inspire a global movement toward a sustainable and harmonious future.

Rabindranath Tagore (7 May 1861 – 7 August 1941),Richard St. Barbe Baker OBE (9 October 1889 – 9 June 1982)

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area in the fog — Rabindranath Tagore (7 May 1861 – 7 August 1941),Richard St. Barbe Baker OBE (9 October 1889 – 9 June 1982)

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

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