Ignite Awareness, Extinguish the Flames: Protecting Saskatchewan’s Forests and Wildlife

Wildfire outbreaks pose a serious threat to the beautiful forests of Saskatchewan, and the devastating effects of wildfire smoke from northern Alberta and Saskatchewan create near immobilizing conditions. It is crucial for all forest users to be aware of the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency Fire Bans across the province and in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. By being informed and taking necessary precautions, we can play a vital role in ensuring public safety and preserving the precious biodiversity of our natural habitats.

“Unite to Protect, Fire Won’t Affect!”

Fire Ban Regulations: The City of Saskatoon has implemented various bylaws to ensure the safety of its parks and green spaces. Bylaw 7767 restricts the use of fireworks, protecting against potential fire hazards. Furthermore, Bylaw No. 8286, the Smoking Control Bylaw, prohibits smoking or vaping in outdoor public places, including parks, trails, and dog parks. These measures are in place to minimize the risk of accidental fires and protect the well-being of both people and nature.

City of Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services Bylaw 7990 provides essential guidance regarding fires and open air fires when there are no fire bans. It is crucial to follow these guidelines during periods without fire bans to prevent any mishaps that could lead to devastating consequences. There is an imperative for no open air fires during a Fire Ban.

No Vaping No Smoking Bylaw 8286 Defend the Woods, Unleash Your Good

Fire. File Photo. 2016 Spring Fire Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK CA — No Vaping No Smoking Bylaw 8286 Defend the Woods, Unleash Your Good

“Embrace the Call, Preserve Them All!”

The Importance of Fire Bans: The Rural Municipality of Corman Park, encompassing Cedar Villa Estates Hamlet which borders Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, has declared a fire ban in effect from May 1, 2023. This ban aims to mitigate the risks associated with wildfires and protect the precious ecosystems in the region.

Protecting Biodiversity: The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas are dedicated to safeguarding the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, spanning 132 hectares (326 acres), and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, covering 60 hectares (148 acres) for generations to come. These areas have experienced nine years of drought, placing immense stress on the wildlife and biodiversity within them. Scientific journals warn that insects are facing a potential sixth mass extinction, largely caused by human activities. Our bird populations are declining, and insects serve as essential “Bird Food on Wings,” as declared by Sam Kieschnick, a Texas Parks & Wildlife Urban Wildlife Biologist.

Drought’s Embrace, Fire’s Deadly Chase

The Guardian recently highlighted that humanity has wiped out 60% of animal populations since 1970, with mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles affected. This alarming report emphasizes that wildlife annihilation has become an emergency that threatens civilization itself.

“Defend the Woods, Unleash Your Good!”

Preserving for the Future: In light of the dire consequences of nine years of drought and the ongoing threat of wildfires, it is more imperative than ever to respect the fire ban regulations. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations can celebrate and enjoy the remarkable Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park.

“From Roots to Canopy, Protect Eternally!”

Conclusion: As forest users, we hold the power to prevent forest fires and protect the invaluable biodiversity of Saskatchewan. Let us embrace the slogan “Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires” and work together to raise awareness, adhere to fire ban regulations, and take necessary precautions. By doing so, we can safeguard the safety of humans and wildlife alike and cherish our beloved Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park for years to come.

Break the Cycle, Douse Drought’s Fire

Remember, fire bans are implemented for the well-being of everyone, and it is essential to respect and comply with these regulations. Together, let us foster a safe and resilient environment for all residents of Saskatchewan.

“Be Firewise, Preserve Paradise!”

Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency

Community Fire Bans

Don’t Let Your Fire Go Wild.

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park
For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
For more information:
Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits
NEW P4G District Official Community Plan
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map
Pinterest richardstbarbeb
Blogger: FriendsAfforestation
Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Facebook: South West OLRA
Reddit: FriendsAfforestation
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Mix: friendsareas
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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 or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.
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

Understanding the Current Fire Ban in Saskatchewan

In recent weeks, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency has issued fire bans across various municipalities in the province. As of the latest update, there are 108 active fire bans in Rural Municipalities (RMs), 38 active fire bans in Urban Municipalities (UMs), and 58 active fire bans in Provincial Parks. These measures aim to mitigate the risk of wildfires and protect both human lives and the environment.

Safety First, Forests Everlast

City of Saskatoon Bylaw No 7990 The Fire and Protective Services Bylaw,

One of the municipalities that have implemented a fire ban is the RM of Corman Park, where the ban was initiated on May 1, 2023. The wording of their fire ban notice is straightforward and leaves no room for ambiguity. It states that a “FIRE BAN” is in effect, prohibiting all outdoor fires within the RM. This includes fire pits, burning barrels, controlled burns, and even fireworks. However, there are exceptions for internal household fireplaces and gas-fueled equipment such as propane barbecues or propane fire pits.

Champion Conservation, Preserve the Wild!

The RM of Corman Park’s decision to enforce a total fire ban aligns with their Fire Services Bylaw 05/21 and the City of Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services Bylaw No 7990, which empowers them to take appropriate measures to prevent fire-related incidents. The ban will remain in effect until authorities deem it safe to lift the restrictions. This cautious approach ensures the safety of residents and helps to prevent the outbreak of wildfires during periods of heightened fire risk.

It is important for individuals and communities to adhere to these fire bans and exercise caution during this time. The dry conditions and increased temperatures in Saskatchewan create an elevated risk of fires spreading quickly and causing significant damage. By respecting the fire bans and refraining from engaging in outdoor fires, stopping smoking and stopping vaping in out door spaces such as parks, trails, dog parks as per Bylaw No. 8286 The Smoking Control Bylaw residents can contribute to the overall safety of their communities and protect the surrounding natural areas.

It is worth noting that fire bans may vary between municipalities, as each jurisdiction assesses the local conditions and determines the appropriate level of restriction. Therefore, it is crucial to stay updated on the specific fire ban measures in your area by consulting official sources, such as the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency or the respective municipal authorities.

As summer approaches and outdoor activities become more prevalent, it is our collective responsibility to prioritize safety and take preventive measures to avoid accidental fires. By following the fire bans and being mindful of potential fire hazards, we can help protect our communities, wildlife habitats, and natural landscapes from the devastating consequences of wildfires.

From Roots to Canopy, Protect Eternally!

Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency

Community Fire Bans

Don’t Let Your Fire Go Wild.

Understanding the Impact of Fire Bans on Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Unite To Protect, Our Shared Quest!

The current fire bans implemented by the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency have important implications for natural areas such as the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. These parks, spanning 132 hectares (326 acres) and 60 hectares (148 acres) respectively, have experienced nine years of consecutive drought, making them particularly susceptible to fire risks. It is crucial to examine the fire ban regulations and understand how they protect these vulnerable ecosystems.

Defend the Woods, Unleash Your Good.

Do YOU like the forests? Please HELP! As the saying goes, “Only YOU can prevent forest fires”

Under the fire ban declared by the RM of Corman Park, all outdoor fires within the Rural Municipality are prohibited. This includes fire pits, burning barrels, controlled burns, and even fireworks. The ban aims to prevent any accidental ignition that could lead to a destructive wildfire. However, internal household fireplaces and gas-fueled equipment, such as propane barbecues or propane fire pits, are exceptions to this ban.

Be Firewise, Preserve Paradise!

In addition to the RM fire ban, the City of Saskatoon has its own bylaw, the Fire and Protective Services Bylaw (No 7990), which provides guidelines for open-air fires when there is NO FIRE BAN. During a FIRE BAN, there are NO FIRES. The bylaw states that open-air fires must be contained in a non-combustible receptacle constructed of cement, brick, or sheet metal with specific thickness requirements. The fuel for these fires should consist only of charcoal or cut, seasoned wood. Burning materials such as rubbish, garden refuse, manure, livestock or animal carcasses, and any material that generates black smoke or an offensive odor is strictly prohibited.

Furthermore, when there is no fire ban, open-air fires must be reasonably supervised, adequately ventilated, and not set in windy conditions. They should not cause interference with the use and enjoyment of another person’s property, and there are specific time restrictions for setting open-air fires between 2:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Discharging firearms or fireworks in parks or recreation facilities also requires written permission from the City.

In addition, City of Saskatoon Bylaw No. 8286, The Smoking Control Bylaw prohibits smoking or vaping in outdoor public places owned or operated by the City. This includes parks and trails, playgrounds, sports fields, spray pads, outdoor and paddling pools, skateboard sites, golf courses, tennis courts, dog parks, public squares and areas around civic buildings.

These fire ban regulations and bylaws are crucial for protecting the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park from potential fire hazards. The nine consecutive years of drought have left these areas more vulnerable to wildfires, and strict fire bans are necessary to mitigate the risks and preserve the natural habitats within these parks.

It is essential for visitors, residents, and communities to respect and comply with these fire bans and regulations. By refraining from activities that could inadvertently cause fires and by following the guidelines set by the RM and City, we can collectively safeguard these valuable natural spaces. Respecting the fire bans and adhering to the restrictions is an act of responsible citizenship that helps protect the environment and ensures the safety of both humans and wildlife.

As we navigate through the fire season, it is crucial to stay informed about the current fire ban status in your area. Keep updated with information provided by the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, municipal authorities, and local fire departments. By understanding and following the fire ban regulations, we can minimize the risk of wildfires and contribute to the long-term preservation of these cherished natural areas.

Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency

Community Fire Bans

Don’t Let Your Fire Go Wild.

Exploring the Wild Side: How to Stay Safe and Have Fun in Afforestation Areas

Saskatoon, a city in Canada, is home to two semi-wild afforestation areas totalling 474 acres which may from time to time serve as a habitat for coyotes, among other wildlife. This is true of any greenspace along the river, or within the city. While coyotes are an essential component of the ecosystem, the City of Saskatoon has issued an advisory reminding the public to be cautious around these animals as they can be unpredictable when confronted. To ensure safety, the city advises people to keep their distance from coyotes, never approach them, and keep pets on a leash and under control.

Coyote as predator. Stock image - not a photograph taken at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, nor photographed at George Genereux Urban Regional Park. How to co-exist with coyotes in Saskatoon, SK — Coyote atock image – not a photograph taken at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, nor photographed at George Genereux Urban Regional Park. How to co-exist with coyotes in Saskatoon, SK

To minimize human-wildlife encounters and conflicts, Coyote Watch Canada recommends being aware of the diversity of wildlife in the community and using common sense and preventative techniques. People should not leave food waste in accessible areas or feed coyotes. For homeowners, they should also seal off access to decks and other sheltered spaces in their yard, not feed pets outdoors, and ensure fencing is in good condition.

Coyote sightings often increase due to humans intentionally or unintentionally providing a food source. For instance, overflowing bird feeders, mishandled compost, and fallen fruit attract a diverse range of prey species, such as rodents, squirrels, chipmunks, and insects, which coyotes will utilize as food. Additionally, it is important to always remember to scoop your dog’s poop while walking in the afforestation areas as it may attract coyotes looking for a potential food source. People should also consider that birds and small mammals that frequent bird feeder stations are potential prey for other predator species such as owls, hawks, foxes, and domestic pets. New infrastructure such as roads, fencing, and urbanization impacts how wildlife moves throughout communities. Urban boundary expansion creates a loss of habitat and green spaces for wildlife. Coyotes and other wildlife species must adjust to their ever-changing world and may be forced to establish new territories to hunt and forage for sustenance. Dens are destroyed through development activities, and the resilient coyote responds to these environmental impacts.

Coyote sightings are influenced by seasonal behavior, such as the mating period, courtship, den selection/pup rearing, and dispersal of juvenile or yearling family members. By promoting respect, compassion, and safety education throughout the community about these intelligent, adaptable keystone species, we can safely coexist with coyotes. Coyote vocalizations are a coyote’s specialized means of communicating danger, locating pack members, defending territory, and survival skills for pups. Vocalizing acts as an effective ‘canid GPS’. Their series of high-pitched yips, barks, and howls can be heard more frequently during certain times of the year.

To coexist safely with coyotes, it is important to be aware of their behavior and understand how to react when encountering them. By following the City of Saskatoon advisory and Coyote Watch’s tips, we can reduce the risk of human-wildlife conflicts and ensure the safety of both people and coyotes.

The City of Saskatoon advisory states; “If you have any questions or concerns regarding coyotes or other wildlife within City limits, please contact Urban Biological Services at 306-975-3300. If an emergency occurs, please contact Saskatoon Police Service at 306-975-8300.” For your information, the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park are both within City limits.

Join the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge 2023 and Contribute to Ecosystem Restoration!

Are you passionate about protecting the environment and contributing to global efforts for ecosystem restoration? Then mark your calendars for the upcoming Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC) YXE 2023 happening from April 28 to May 1, 2023. As we enter the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration from 2021 to 2030, let’s come together as citizen scientists and play our part in safeguarding biodiversity, combatting climate change, and promoting sustainable practices!

The United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration is a global initiative aimed at promoting environmental goals and facilitating cooperation for the restoration of degraded and destroyed ecosystems. With a focus on combatting climate change, safeguarding biodiversity, ensuring food security, and securing water supply, this decade presents a unique opportunity for individuals and organizations to contribute to the restoration of our planet’s ecosystems.

While much of the focus is on promoting restoration activities by national governments, the UN also recognizes the importance of efforts from other actors, including the private sector, NGOs, and regular individuals like you and me. The Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge provides an excellent platform for citizens to actively participate in ecosystem restoration efforts right in their local communities.

Participating in the City Nature Challenge is easy and fun! All you need is a smartphone with the iNaturalist app, and you’re ready to start documenting and recording the biodiversity in your local area. By simply observing and documenting the different species of plants, animals, and insects that you come across during the challenge period, you can contribute valuable data to help scientists and researchers better understand and protect our natural world.

The City Nature Challenge is not only a great opportunity to engage in citizen science and contribute to global environmental goals, but it’s also a chance to connect with nature, learn about the biodiversity in our local area, and make a positive impact on our planet. It’s a fun and educational activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, from families with kids to solo nature enthusiasts.

By participating in the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge 2023, you’ll be joining a global movement towards ecosystem restoration and making a tangible difference in your local community. You can also take it a step further by becoming a co-host or partner organization, promoting the event on social media, or leading your own nature connect group bio-blitz. Together, we can contribute to the restoration of our planet’s ecosystems and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

So, are you ready to be a part of the solution and make a positive impact on our planet? Join us in the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge 2023 and take action towards ecosystem restoration. Let’s come together as citizen scientists and invest in our planet during this United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Together, we can make a difference and create a better world for ourselves and future generations!

For more information and to get involved, please visit the City of Saskatoon CNC YXE 2023 project page on iNaturalist, check out the CNCYXE2023 website or contact friendsafforestation@gmail.com. Let’s make Saskatoon shine in the City Nature Challenge 2023 and contribute to global efforts for ecosystem restoration!

Planned events

Join the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC) YXE 2023 and Connect with Nature in Saskatoon!

Are you ready to explore the biodiversity of Saskatoon and surrounding areas like never before? The City Nature Challenge (CNC) is coming to Saskatoon from April 28 to May 1, 2023, and we invite you to be a part of this exciting environmental initiative. The CNC is a global event that encourages people to document the organisms they find in their cities using the iNaturalist app, and this year, Saskatoon is joining the challenge for the first time!

The CNC is not only a fun and educational activity, but it also serves a greater purpose. By participating in the CNC, we are taking action locally to promote sustainable and climate-conscious practices, while also contributing to a global effort to understand and protect urban biodiversity. This international collaboration fosters a community of environmental champions and guardians, which is crucial in the face of climate change.

BioDivercity Challenge free iNaturalist App — City Nature Challenge free iNaturalist App

City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area versus YQRCNC Regina and area in a mini SK challenge — City Nature Challenge free iNaturalist App

The CNC Canada 2023 is an initiative led by the Canada Wildlife Federation, and you can check out the Canadian Umbrella Project Page for CNC 2023 to see which other cities across the country are participating. It’s an exciting opportunity for Saskatoon and the province of Saskatchewan to showcase our amazing biodiversity to the world and learn from other cities that have participated in the CNC in previous years.

We are looking for individuals and groups who are interested in documenting organisms on iNaturalist between April 29 and May 2, 2023. If you want to be a part of this exciting event, let us know! We would love to have collaborators and co-hosts for the City of Saskatoon. There will also be a follow-up event from May 3 to May 8, 2023, where you can use your computer at home to help identify the observations. And the best part? It’s all free!

As an iNaturalist user, you can view our City of Saskatoon CNC YXE 2023 project page and journal and start getting involved. We have also started a webpage for CNC YXE 2023 to provide hints, tips, engagement, information, and interest, and we would be thrilled to add your organization as a partner. There is a YouTube Channel with iNaturalist clips for any interested citizen scientist!

There are many ways you can contribute to the success of the CNC YXE 2023. You can participate as a nature observer, join a group bio-blitz, or go outdoors individually with the iNaturalist app on your smartphone. It’s easy, and we have plenty of resources to share. If you are a partner organization, you can have your logo featured online and help promote the event. You can also offer your skill sets or find sponsors to spread the word in the media. And if you’re really passionate about nature, you can even lead your own nature connect group bio-blitz with a date/time meetup via Facebook events or Eventbrite.

So, mark your calendars for the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC) YXE 2023 happening from April 28 to May 1, 2023, and get ready to connect with nature in Saskatoon like never before. Let’s come together as a community to document and appreciate the biodiversity in our city and contribute to a global effort to protect our planet’s natural heritage. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be a part of something bigger! For more information and to get involved, email us at friendsafforestation@gmail.com.

Planned events

Breaking News! City Nature Challenge 2023 April 28 to May 1

Breaking News! City Nature Challenge 2023 is just around the corner, and Friends Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc encourages you to join in the fun! From April 28 to May 1, you can participate in a worldwide competition to collect the most plant and wildlife observations in your city. The CNC YXE 2023 is a fantastic opportunity for you to explore nature, take pictures, and share your findings with the world.

Spring is back, and it’s the happiest time of the year when everything comes back to life. The City Nature Challenge provides a perfect opportunity for you to connect with nature, explore the outdoors, and discover new species. You don’t need any special skills or equipment to participate – just your smartphone and the iNaturalist app.

To take part in the challenge, all you need to do is find any plant, animal, or any evidence of life in your city, take a picture, and share your observations through the iNaturalist app. It’s that easy! Your participation will help scientists understand more about the biodiversity of your city and how to coexist with nature.

The City Nature Challenge is an international citizen science initiative that highlights the value of citizen science data in answering questions in urban ecology. By participating in the CNC YXE 2023, you’ll be joining a worldwide community of nature lovers and making a significant contribution to scientific research. The data you collect will be used to understand how urban biodiversity responds to urban intensification and how cities can be made more sustainable.

Cities around the world have already hosted a variety of Public Engagement with Biological Recording PEBR events as part of the City Nature Challenge, including BioBlitzes, mini-BioBlitzes, species surveys, guided nature walks, ID parties, and various derivations of these. These events all have the common aims of collecting biodiversity data while connecting the public with nature. By taking part in the CNC YXE 2023, you’ll be contributing to this global effort to understand and protect our natural world.

In conclusion, Friends Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc invites you to join the City Nature Challenge 2023 and be part of a worldwide community of nature lovers. Find it, snap it, share it, and see what you’ll discover! To learn more about the CNC YXE 2023 and other events, visit FriendsAreas.ca. CNCYXE FAQ

The Sacredness of Water

The Sacredness of Water and Indigenous People’s Relationship with Nature

Water has long been seen as a source of spiritual and physical nourishment, and for Indigenous people, this has become an essential part of their heritage, connection to the land, and sense of identity. Water is seen as a symbol of life, as it is necessary for survival, and is an integral part of many Indigenous ceremonies and rituals.

The West Swale wetlands, in particular Chappell Marsh, has been an important location for many Indigenous people. It is a place of great spiritual significance, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is also a popular tourist destination, and a place where local communities come to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

However, this relationship between Indigenous people and the land has been threatened by the human dimensions of water issues. Water contamination, overuse, and pollution have put a strain on the health of the wetlands and its inhabitants. Furthermore, the development of the wetlands for tourist and recreational activities has caused further disruption to the natural environment.

The human dimensions of water issues are not limited to the West Swale wetlands. Across Canada, Indigenous people are struggling to protect their sacred water sources from industrial and agricultural pollution, as well as residential development. This has had a devastating impact on the health and wellbeing of Indigenous people, and has caused a disconnection from the land that has been a part of their culture for centuries.

The sacredness of water and the importance of the relationship between Indigenous people and the land must be respected and honored. We must recognize the need for sustainable water management practices and the need to protect and conserve water sources, both in the West Swale wetlands and across Canada. We must also respect the spiritual significance of water for Indigenous people, and ensure that their connection to the land is preserved and celebrated. Only then can we begin to restore the balance between humans and nature.

Innovative App Editor – Writer for Cultural & Environmental Heritage Prairie Forest Guide. The ideal candidate for this position will have a deep understanding of Indigenous perspectives and cultures, as well as a passion for the environment and its protection. Experience in developing interpretive heritage stories and knowledge of life on land is a must. No technical coding required. We are looking for someone creative and innovative who can bring this project to life. If you are interested in this position, please submit your resume and cover letter to our website.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Image taken by Shweetha Gopinath, eco-photographer

More Information is at KIJIJI on this position

More about this Contract position is posted at Sask Culture

This is STAGE ONE of the Call for Tender.

Please email friendsafforestation@gmail.com for clarification or for further details

Thank you so very much

Thank you to so many folks who came out to the Mall at Lawson Heights and offered your support, gave a donation and received a calendar.

It has been a pleasure to announce the launch of the Saskatoon Afforesation Areas Inspirational 2023 Calendar in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Come out to our Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Booth!

Support the afforestation areas.

Give a donation for a calendar Saturday October 22 and Sunday October 23 between Noon to 8 p.m. at the Reflections of Nature Art Show Prairieland Exhibition Hall E!

See you there!

If you cannot come, Email friendsafforestation@gmail.com for your calendar today!

In partnership and with gratitude to Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Marvel at the landscapes, plants, birds and animals of the two Saskatoon Afforestation Areas throughout the months. Appreciate our urban forest with this inspirational calendar featuring quotations from the mover and shaker the one and only global conservationist Richard St. Barbe Baker. Come to Nature. Come to Life. Community Place Making in the forest. Get your Christmas presents for that hard to shop for someone today! Celebrate Saskatoon and our urban forest!

Saskatoon’s Secret Forests transforming to Hidden Gems.

2023 Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inspirational Calendar. Landscapes courtesy Vivian Allan. Sample January Month showing. Support Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park in Saskatoon — 2023 Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inspirational Calendar. Landscape images here courtesy Vivian Allan. Sample January Month showing. Support Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park in Saskatoon

See the great work done by the non profit environmental charity, on YouTube, or at the Wildwoods of Saskatoon Virtual Premiere Film! October 24 at 7:00 pm

Virtual Wildwoods of Saskatoon

Wildwoods of Saskatoon

Virtual Film YouTube or Zoom

October 24 at 7:00 pm

Eventbrite page to sign up for the film viewing

Wildwoods of Saskaton Film Pamphlet for Download for more information

This heritage documentary will feature guest speakers who speak to the rich history and heritage of the two afforestation areas the 132 ha (326 acre) Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the 60 ha (148 acre) George Genereux Urban Regional Park planted to trees in 1972 under the Green Survival Program.

Wildwoods of Saskatoon Film Commemorate Oct 24 with us. Celebrate the 50th anniversaries of the afforestation areas AND UN World Development Information Day & International Day Against Climate Change

A Tangible Legacy. History, Geology, Ecology, Ecosystem services, Sense of place, Opportunities. Protecting memories and visualizing dreams. Exploration of the symbiotic relationship of the diverse urban community being nurtured in nature at the Wildwoods of Saskatoon.

This is the 50th anniversary of both afforestation areas planted to trees in 1972! These forests, wetlands and greenspaces are semi-wilderness wildlife habitats in Saskatoon providing two amazing areas to balance environmental sustainability and conservation with social, physical, and mental benefits for health and wellness in a natural greenspace setting.

Opening up to a deeply resonant perspective on greenspace heritage and the grandeur of forests director James Hay weaves the conversation from breathtaking aerial forest scenes and archival footage in a call to consciousness.

James Young, Métis bringing indigenous greetings & perspective

Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck Greenpriest of Saskatoon and friend of our forests St. Andrew’s College

City of Saskatoon Councillor Hilary Gough

Meewasin CEO Andrea Lafond

Sylvia Konkin Assistant School Administrator

Paul Hanley biographer of Richard St. Barbe Baker Man of the Trees First Global Conservationist and environmental columnist

Robert White, BSA, MES (Env. St.) Recipient of the first Men of the Trees Prize at the U of S

Jeff O’Brien, B.A., M.A., City of Saskatoon archivist

Dr. Bill Waiser B.A., M.A., Ph.D. O.C. SOM, Distinguished history Professor Emeritus

Reagan Wildeman Community member – Triathlon, Crossfit, Fatbike

Jeff Hehn Fatlanders Fat Tire Brigade Trail Coordinator

Dr. Ernie Walker, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. O.C. SOM, Archaeology & Anthropology professor emeritus

Wildwoods of Saskatoon Virtual Film October 24 at 7:00 pm CST (12:00 am UTC)

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Wildwoods of Saskatoon

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