wildlife education – Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. George Genereux Urban Regional Park.

Saskatoon and Area Community Bioblitz: Exploring Biodiversity June 8-11, 2023

Join us for the Saskatoon and Area Community Bioblitz, The Biodiversity Challenge, an exciting citizen science initiative aimed at documenting the rich biodiversity in the Saskatoon region. From June 8th to June 11th, we invite nature enthusiasts, scientists, and curious individuals of all ages to participate in this collaborative effort to observe and identify as many species as possible within our designated bioblitz area.

The bioblitz area, which encompasses diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, grasslands, and urban environments, is specified in the project journal, providing participants with clear boundaries to focus their exploration. Your observations can help us create a comprehensive inventory of the flora and fauna found in our region.

To participate, simply head outdoors and start making observations using the iNaturalist platform. Remember, all observations must be made by the stroke of midnight at the end of June 11th. However, we understand that you may have stored observations on your camera taken between June 8th and June 11th, so we will allow an additional 7 days for you to submit them.

Preliminary results will be tallied shortly after the submission deadline, but the identification and refining process will continue until July 31st. This extended period allows participants to collaborate, research, and refine their identifications, ensuring the highest possible accuracy in our final results.

By participating in the Saskatoon and Area Community Bioblitz, you will contribute valuable data that aids in conservation efforts, informs local environmental management, and deepens our understanding of the natural world. Together, we can uncover hidden gems of biodiversity and foster a greater appreciation for the ecosystems that surround us.

Join us on this remarkable journey to explore, document, and celebrate the incredible biodiversity of the Saskatoon region. Let’s make a difference and create a lasting impact for generations to come.

Important Dates:

Nature Explorer Night: Uncover Hidden Wonders

08/06/2023 06:30 PM June 8
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Our Planet, Our Responsibility: Support the Biodiversity Challenge! FREE June 8

Night Safari Adventure: Unleash the Wild Side

09/06/2023 06:30 PM June 9
George Genereux Urban Regional Park

From Awareness to Action: Champion the Biodiversity Challenge! FREE Friday Evening June 9

Wildlife Expedition: Explore Nature’s Hidden Realm!

10/06/2023 02:00 PM June 10
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, Saskatoon, SK

Protecting Nature’s Marvels: Stand up for Biodiversity! FREE June 10, 2023

Nature Quest: Uncover Urban Biodiversity Wonderland!

11/06/2023 02:00 PM – 11/06/2023 04:00 PM June 11
George Genereux Urban Regional Park, Saskatoon, SK

Small Actions, Big Impact: Take the Biodiversity Challenge FREE at George Genereux Park Sunday June 11 2:00pm FREE

Bioblitz Period: June 8th – June 11th, 2023
Final Observation Submission Deadline: June 18th, 2023
Preliminary Results: June 19th – July 31st, 2023
Final Results: July 31st, 2023

Note: Detailed information, guidelines, and the project journal will be provided on the official Saskatoon and Area Community Bioblitz Saskatoon Biodiversity Challenge website and the iNaturalist platform. Stay tuned for updates and engage with fellow participants through the project’s online community.

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
YouTube
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

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.

Discovering Nature’s Wonders: Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge 2023

The Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2023 is in full swing, and nature enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement! The second day, April 29, brought about phenomenal observations, thanks to the large network of participants who are actively engaging in the crowd-sourced species identification system and all the folks locally photographing and recording sounds in nature! From plants to animals, insects to birds, the City Nature Challenge is a unique opportunity to explore the biodiversity of Saskatoon and its surrounding areas, and to contribute valuable data for scientific research.

Mushrooms, Grasshopper, Caterpillar, Fungi

Lichen — Mushrooms, Grasshopper, Caterpillar, Fungi

One of the highlights of the City Nature Challenge is the use of image recognition technology on the iNaturalist app, which allows participants to easily identify the plants and animals they come across. This makes it accessible even for those who may not have extensive knowledge of the local flora and fauna. It’s a great way to learn and connect with nature, while also contributing to the collective understanding of the biodiversity in the region.

The City Nature Challenge also provides a platform to meet scientists and naturalists locally and from around the world. Through the iNaturalist community, participants can engage in discussions, share their findings, and learn from experts in various fields. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and be a part of a global citizen science effort to document and protect our natural heritage.

One of the exciting aspects of the City Nature Challenge is the opportunity to monitor the return of migratory birds to the region. With spring in full swing, many bird species are making their way back after a long winter migration. From meadowlarks to robins, blue jays to black-capped chickadees, the challenge is on to spot and document these feathered travelers as they make their presence known with their distinct songs and calls. It’s a thrilling experience to witness the arrival of these avian visitors and contribute to the understanding of their populations in the area.

Insects are also a significant part of the City Nature Challenge. As Greg, one of the avid participants, says, “Bugs rule the numbers game!” Flies, butterflies, boxelder bugs, ladybugs, cocoons, ants, and many other fascinating insects can be spotted during the challenge. These tiny creatures play crucial roles in ecosystem health and provide endless opportunities for observation and discovery. With a keen eye and a sense of curiosity, participants can uncover the hidden world of insects and gain a deeper appreciation for their importance in nature.

But the City Nature Challenge doesn’t stop at just plants and animals. It’s an opportunity to explore all aspects of nature, including fungi, lichens, and other intriguing organisms. Participants are encouraged to leave no stone unturned and search for life in unexpected places. From the bark of trees to the cracks of fences, there’s always something waiting to be discovered.

Aside from the scientific and educational aspects, the City Nature Challenge is also about having fun and enjoying the wonders of nature. It’s a chance to reconnect with the natural world, whether it’s in a greenspace, your own yard, along the sidewalks, or in the beautiful afforestation areas and swales of Saskatoon. As always, it’s important to stay safe when exploring near water and wetlands, and to respect the natural environment and its inhabitants.

To be a part of the City Nature Challenge, all you need is a smartphone, the iNaturalist app, and a sense of curiosity. Join the thousands of participants from around the world who are taking part in this global citizen science event, and make your own exciting observations. Share your findings on social media using the hashtag #CityNatureChallenge, #CNCYXE, #FriendsAreas and be the voice for nature in your community. Download the iNaturalist app today, and let the adventure begin!

Planned events

Join an event, or document wildlife, and biodiversity in your home, yard, sidewalk, parkspace, tree, flower garden, eavestrough, local park, bus stop, on your daily walk, at a baseball game, in the dog park.

Discovering the Wonders of Nature: Join the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge 2023!

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure in the heart of nature? Mark your calendars for April 28 to May 1, 2023, as the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC) YXE 2023 kicks off! This exciting event, organized by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc., promises to be an unforgettable experience that will awaken your senses and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

The City Nature Challenge is a global citizen science initiative that invites people from all walks of life to observe and document the biodiversity of their local environment using the iNaturalist app. Saskatoon and its surrounding areas boast an abundance of diverse habitats, from lush forests to serene wetlands, providing a rich ecosystem for countless species of plants and animals. By participating in the City Nature Challenge, you will have the opportunity to contribute to scientific research and conservation efforts while indulging in the wonders of nature.

With your smartphone in hand and the iNaturalist app downloaded, you’ll be all set to embark on your adventure. As you explore the Saskatoon and Area, you might encounter a plethora of fascinating species. Will it be an otter playing in the water or a majestic pelican soaring through the sky? Perhaps you’ll come across a conk mushroom or a delicate seashell hidden among the foliage. Keep your eyes peeled for elusive moths fluttering by or bats gracefully gliding at dusk. And as the spring blooms adorn the landscape, you may stumble upon a vibrant dandelion or a cheerful crocus adding a splash of color to the surroundings.

One of the most exciting aspects of the City Nature Challenge is the element of surprise. You never know what you might encounter during your nature exploration. Every observation is valuable, whether it’s a common species or a rare find. The thrill of discovery and the joy of being immersed in nature is what makes this event truly special.

In addition to the excitement of observing and documenting the biodiversity of Saskatoon and Area, you can also participate in the City Nature Challenge’s social media campaign. Share your observations, photos, and experiences on social media using the hashtag #CNCYXE2023 and be a voice for nature. By spreading the word about this event, you can inspire others to appreciate and protect our natural world.

Greg, a dedicated participant of the City Nature Challenge, shares his enthusiasm, “Bugs rule the numbers game! It begins today.” Indeed, insects are often abundant and diverse in natural environments, and the City Nature Challenge provides a unique opportunity to learn more about these fascinating creatures and their vital role in ecosystems.

So, gear up, get ready, and let the adventure begin! Join the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge from April 28 to May 1, 2023, and embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery. Download the iNaturalist app, find it, snap it, and share it. Let’s be the voice for nature and contribute to the understanding and conservation of our local biodiversity. For more information about the event, visit the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. website at http://friendsareas.ca/.

Remember, every observation counts, and you might just uncover a hidden gem of nature that will leave you in awe. Happy exploring, and may your City Nature Challenge adventure be filled with wonder and discovery!

Planned events

Let us know your planned events! Your school, classroom, green group, business has so much to add. Discover your front yard, bird feeder, insects on the boulevard tree, bus stop, ants on the sidewalk, school yard, local park. Keep your eyes open.

Countdown to City Nature Challenge: Join the Effort to Map and Protect Saskatoon and Area’s Biodiversity

Are you in love with the incredible nature of Saskatoon and Area? Do you want to contribute to the mapping and protection of its biodiversity? If so, mark your calendars for April 28 to May 1, 2023, and get ready to participate in the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC) YXE 2023! With just a few days left until the challenge begins, nature enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds are invited to join this global citizen science initiative and make a difference for local wildlife.

Yellow-headed Blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) This is the brightly colored male. The female of the species will use the cattails, reeds or rushes standing above the surface of the water to weave a nest, and lay 2-5 eggs. — Yellow-headed Blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus)

All you need to participate in the City Nature Challenge is a smartphone and the free iNaturalist app. Simply download the app, create an account, and start documenting the flora and fauna you encounter in Saskatoon and Area during the challenge period. It’s a fun and easy way to contribute to a global effort of mapping urban biodiversity and raising awareness about the importance of nature in our cities.

Last year’s City Nature Challenge was a huge success, with 52,000 people from 445 cities in 47 countries participating, resulting in over 1.69 million observations of more than 50,000 species including those participants who documented 2,244 rare, endangered, and threatened species. These observations provide valuable data for scientists, researchers, and policymakers to better understand and protect urban biodiversity.

One of the highlights of the City Nature Challenge is the opportunity to learn about species at risk or noxious invasive species in your area. The iNaturalist app has a built-in feature that will notify you with an icon if the species you observe is at risk or invasive. This allows participants to contribute to the conservation efforts by providing important information about the distribution and abundance of these species in Saskatoon and Area.

As the City Nature Challenge takes place in the spring, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the best of what the season has to offer. From blooming wildflowers to singing birds, the natural world comes alive during this time of the year. Participants are encouraged to share their observations (photos and sound recordings) on social media using the hashtag #CityNatureChallenge, #CNCYXE and tagging Friends Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc @Friendsareas or #FriendsAreas, the organization hosting the event. Let nature be heard, and let’s celebrate the beauty and diversity of Saskatoon and Area’s natural heritage together.

So, be the reason nature believes in humanity and join the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge from April 28 to May 1, 2023. With just a few days left, it’s time to get ready, download the iNaturalist app, and start exploring the local parks, trails, and natural areas to document the incredible biodiversity that surrounds us. Together, we can make a meaningful contribution to the conservation of Saskatoon and Area’s precious natural heritage. Learn more at FriendsAreas.ca and be part of the City Nature Challenge!

Planned events

Please let us know of your business, school, classroom, or group’s City nature challenge planned events also!

Join us for Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2023!

Are you ready to connect with nature, contribute to vital conservation research, and compete for the title of the most Biodiverse City? Saskatoon and Area are gearing up for the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2023, happening from April 28 to May 1, 2023. This international initiative invites researchers, school groups, citizens, and wildlife enthusiasts across the world to come together and put nature on the map through the iNaturalist smartphone app.

George Genereux Urban Regional Park Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Sept 24 — City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area

City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area

Similar to other nature-related international decades, such as the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration from 2021 to 2030, the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge aims to promote environmental goals, including the restoration of degraded and destroyed ecosystems, combating climate change, safeguarding biodiversity, food security, and water supply. While much focus is on promoting restoration activity by national governments, the UN also wishes to promote efforts from other actors, ranging from the private sector and NGOs to regular individuals.

Participating in the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge is easy and fun. Whether you are an expert, a seasoned #BioBlitz participant, or getting involved for the first time, you can contribute to the collection of biodiversity data in Saskatoon and Area. Simply download the free iNaturalist app, take a photograph of nature in your local area, whether it’s a tree, plant, insect, or animal, and upload it to the app. You don’t even have to know anything about the species you are observing. Teams of experts will review and update the information that’s submitted, so you can log back in later and learn more about what you’ve spotted.By participating in the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge, you can help Saskatoon and Area compete for the title of the most Biodiverse City.

The challenge has three awards each year for the cities and areas that make the most observations, find the most species, and engage the most people. It’s a friendly competition that puts Saskatoon and Area on the world stage and highlights the rich biodiversity of our region.So, mark your calendars and join us for the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2023 from April 28 to May 1, 2023. Let’s come together as a community to celebrate and learn about the wildlife flourishing in our local greenspaces, while contributing to global efforts in conservation research. To learn more, visit FriendsAreas.ca and get ready to embark on a nature adventure like never before!

Planned events

Join the City Nature Challenge 2023 in Saskatoon and Celebrate Earth Day by Investing in Our Planet!

Are you ready to make a difference for our planet and contribute to local biodiversity conservation efforts? Then mark your calendars for the upcoming iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (CNC) YXE 2023 happening in Saskatoon from April 28 to May 1, 2023. As we celebrate Earth Day on April 22, let’s come together as citizen scientists and invest in our planet by participating in this exciting environmental initiative!

West Swale and Richard St. Barbe Baker AFforestation Area wildlife Urban Forest Semi-Wilderness Area. Mountain Bluebird, White Tailed Deer Fawn. Barred Tiger Salamander or western tiger salamander. American Pelican, Mallard Duckling

The City Nature Challenge is a global event that encourages people from all over the world to document and record the biodiversity in their local communities using the iNaturalist app. This citizen science project allows anyone with a smartphone to become a nature observer and contribute valuable data to help scientists and researchers better understand and protect our natural world.

What makes the City Nature Challenge even more special this year is that the City of Saskatoon has joined the Canada-wide umbrella project, CNC Canada 2023, led by the Canada Wildlife Federation. This means that we, as a community, have the opportunity to showcase our city’s incredible biodiversity on the world stage and contribute to sustainable and climate action challenges through international collaboration.

Notably, this is the second year that Saskatoon and the province of Saskatchewan are taking part in the City Nature Challenge, making it a unique and exciting opportunity for us to learn from cities that have participated in previous years. It’s a chance for us to come together as environmental champions and guardians, and take action locally to protect our natural heritage in the face of climate change.

Participating in the City Nature Challenge is easy and free! All you need is a smartphone with the iNaturalist app, and you’re ready to start documenting organisms in your local area. During the challenge period from April 28 to May 1, you can go outdoors individually or join in-group nature connecting bio-blitz observations. There will also be a follow-up identification events from May 2 – May 7, 2023, where you can contribute as an identifier using your computer at home. The winners are announced May 8, 2023.

If you’re interested in becoming a participant, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. You can join the City of Saskatoon CNC YXE 2023 project page on iNaturalist, and even become a co-host or partner organization. You can also help promote the event by sharing your involvement on social media, finding sponsors, or leading your own nature connect group bio-blitz with a date/time meetup via Facebook events or Eventbrite.

By taking part in the City Nature Challenge, you’ll not only contribute to important scientific research and conservation efforts, but you’ll also have the chance to connect with nature, learn about the biodiversity in our local area, and make a positive impact on our planet. So, let’s come together as a community and celebrate Earth Day by investing in our planet through the City Nature Challenge 2023 in Saskatoon. Join us in this exciting event and let’s make a difference for our planet and future generations to come!

For more information and to get involved, please email friendsafforestation@gmail.com or visit the City of Saskatoon CNC YXE 2023 project page on iNaturalist. Together, let’s make Saskatoon shine in the City Nature Challenge 2023 and show the world the beauty and diversity of our local biodiversity!

Planned Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge events

Add yours today! or Register to take part above.

Discover the Wild Side of Saskatoon: Participate in the City Nature Challenge 2023!

Join the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge and Discover the Beauty of Nature Around You!

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

Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure to explore and discover the wonders of nature right in your own backyard? The Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge is here, and you’re invited to be a part of it! This annual event, taking place from April 28 to May 1, 2023, is a global citizen science initiative that encourages people to get outside, observe and document the biodiversity around them, and contribute valuable data to scientific research. And the best part? Anyone can participate, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or new to nature observation!

In today’s busy world, finding time to connect with nature can be challenging. Many of us are caught up in work, school, and other responsibilities. But the City Nature Challenge offers a fun and accessible way to discover the beauty of the natural world, right where you are. You don’t have to go to a national park or a remote wilderness area to participate. You can search for nature in your own neighborhood, your local park, or even your own backyard!

So how can you get involved in the City Nature Challenge? It’s simple! All you need is a smartphone, and a free account on the iNaturalist app (in the field recordings) or website. The iNaturalist platform allows you to easily document and share your observations of plants, animals, fungi, and other living organisms, and contribute to a global database of biodiversity records. You can also join or view the progress of the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist project, specifically created for the City Nature Challenge, to connect with other local nature enthusiasts and see what they’ve found.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry! The City Nature Challenge provides helpful resources to help you get going. You can download a PDF with hints and tips for searching for nature around your home, or watch a fungi-specific YouTube if you’re interested in exploring the fascinating world of mushrooms and other fungi. The City Nature Challenge is also a great opportunity to learn from experts and fellow participants through guided walks, workshops, and other events organized by local nature organizations.

As you embark on your nature adventure, keep your eyes and ears open for the birds that are returning to Saskatoon and its surrounding areas. Will you spot meadowlarks, robins, blue jays, or black-capped chickadees doing their two-note spring territory calls? And don’t forget about insects! As Greg says, “Bugs rule the numbers game!” Look out for flies, butterflies, boxelder bugs, ladybugs (also known as lady beetles), cocoons, ants, and other fascinating insects that may catch your eye. Remember to leave no stone unturned! Check on top of branches and stones for lichens, conks, or shelf fungi. Peek into the bark of trees, or into the cracks of fences – you never know what hidden treasures you might find!

The City Nature Challenge is not only about discovering the beauty of nature, but also about contributing to important scientific research. Your observations can help researchers and conservationists better understand and protect local biodiversity, monitor changes in populations, and make informed conservation decisions. By participating in the City Nature Challenge, you become a citizen scientist, making a meaningful contribution to our understanding of the natural world.

And don’t forget to have fun! The City Nature Challenge is a great opportunity to connect with nature, explore your surroundings, and learn something new. Whether you’re exploring a greenspace, your yard, along your sidewalk, the afforestation areas, the swales of Saskatoon, or the riverbank, there’s always something fascinating to discover. Schools, classrooms, businesses, and groups can even challenge others in a mini-challenge for even more excitement!

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

Passion for outdoor education, reconciliation?

Are you a Cultural and Environmental Heritage Writer with a passion for outdoor education, reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons, and Aboriginal knowledge, culture and ethics?

Our public park space is seeking a Heritage Writer to fact check the interpretation of the Prairie Forest Guide app. This app provides outdoor education opportunities that promote the understanding of Aboriginal knowledge, culture and ethical standards. The Prairie Forest Guide app is part of an ongoing effort to support reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons in our public park space.

We are looking for a Heritage Writer who is knowledgeable in Aboriginal knowledge, culture and ethical standards. The ideal candidate must be able to fact check the interpretation of the Prairie Forest Guide app to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The Heritage Writer will also be responsible for providing guidance and support to the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. regarding cultural protocols and best practices in editing existing interpretive stories and write new stories as needed.

The successful candidate must have a background in Aboriginal studies, have a good understanding of the local Indigenous communities and cultures, and possess excellent writing and communication skills.

If you believe you have the skills and knowledge to help us in our effort to support reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons in our public park space, please apply today friendsafforestation@gmail.com!

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

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