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

Unveiling Nature’s Secrets: Harnessing Digital Tools to Explore Afforestation Biodiversity

Introduction: Nature’s treasures have always fascinated humanity, capturing our curiosity and inspiring countless scientific endeavors. With advancements in technology, researchers and enthusiasts have found innovative ways to unlock the mysteries of the natural world. In this article, we delve into the exciting realm of digital tools, such as eBird, the Environmental Dynamics Inc. (EDI) natural screening study, and iNaturalist projects. These platforms have revolutionized the exploration of afforestation areas, enabling us to uncover the rich tapestry of biodiversity hidden within these flourishing habitats.

eBird: A Gateway to Avian Exploration: The avian kingdom has long enchanted nature enthusiasts, and eBird has emerged as an invaluable tool for birdwatchers worldwide. This digital platform, developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society, allows citizen scientists to record their bird sightings and contribute to a global database. By harnessing the collective power of birders, researchers can now analyze vast datasets to understand the migratory patterns, population dynamics, and habitat preferences of various avian species within afforestation areas. The observations logged on eBird provide a holistic understanding of bird biodiversity, aiding conservation efforts and contributing to scientific knowledge. Fortunately, Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area has three eBird hotspots to discover!

Environmental Dynamics Inc. (EDI) Natural Screening Study: As part of the sector planning process, EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc. conducted a natural area screening study in the Blairmore Sector Plan Amendment area during the spring of 2022. The study revealed significant findings across various aspects of the ecosystem. Concerns were raised about 14 areas with potential environmental issues in the soils, including two possible contaminants. The area mainly consisted of cultivated land, disturbed/developed land, wetlands, and woodland, with each habitat type playing a unique role in the landscape. A rich diversity of 105 vegetation species was identified, with particular attention given to the presence of two species of management concern in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. The study also documented a remarkable array of wildlife, including 91 bird species, 52 invertebrates, and 8 mammal species. EDI’s recommendations focused on prioritizing conservation efforts in the afforestation areas, minimizing wetland degradation, controlling weeds and invasive species, creating buffer zones around the wetland, and enhancing recreational opportunities while engaging stakeholders and community partners. The study provided crucial insights to inform future environmental management and protection strategies in the Blairmore Sector.

iNaturalist: Mobilizing the Curious Naturalist: When it comes to documenting biodiversity, citizen science plays a crucial role. iNaturalist, a popular online platform, empowers individuals to become active participants in scientific discovery. Through iNaturalist projects focused on afforestation areas, volunteers can photograph and share observations of flora and fauna, thereby contributing to a growing database of species occurrences. The collective effort of these citizen scientists enables researchers to monitor changes in biodiversity over time and space, identify invasive species, and even discover new and rare organisms. By fostering a sense of community and curiosity, iNaturalist projects encourage widespread engagement with the natural world. Discover and contribute to the free iNaturalist app- Find it, snap it share it! Your discoveries in the forests align with the GPS location, and your sound recording, or observation photograph will appear on the “Baker Area Eco-Quest” or the “Genereux Park Eco-Quest“

Unveiling Afforestation Biodiversity: The Power of Collaboration: The integration of eBird, the EDI Natural Screening Study, and iNaturalist projects creates a powerful synergy in exploring the biodiversity of afforestation areas. Researchers can cross-reference data from these platforms, gaining comprehensive insights into the interactions between different taxa and their habitats. Such collaborative efforts allow us to identify potential conservation hotspots, detect species of conservation concern, and develop effective management strategies for afforestation areas worldwide. By bridging the gap between citizen scientists, researchers, and environmental organizations, these digital tools are catalyzing a new era of discovery.

Gray Comma Butterfly Spring Polygonia progne

Conclusion:

As our knowledge of the natural world deepens, so does our responsibility to protect and conserve it. The fusion of digital tools like eBird, the EDI Natural Screening Study, and iNaturalist projects allows us to explore and appreciate the astonishing biodiversity found within afforestation areas. These and other forms of knowledge exploration bring together the expertise of scientists and the enthusiasm of citizen scientists, creating a collaborative approach to research and conservation. By embracing the potential of these tools, we can continue to unravel the intricacies of nature’s web and ensure a sustainable future for our planet’s afforestation areas.

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

Thank You Observers! Join the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge for Biodiversity Conservation

Dear Nature Enthusiasts,

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the observers who came out on April 28, April 29, and April 30 for the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon and Area. Wow! Your participation in this global community science competition to document urban biodiversity has been truly inspiring! Today, May 1, is the last day to celebrate nature classification for the City Nature Challenge.

The City Nature Challenge is an annual event that engages residents and visitors in finding and documenting plants, animals, and other organisms living in urban areas. The goals are to collect biodiversity data and raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation. This year, Saskatoon and Area are competing for the title of the most biodiverse city, and we’re excited to see the numbers rise higher and higher!

Ranked S2 by SCDC Woodland Skipper Ochlodes sylvanoides — City Nature Challenge CNCYXE

We’re especially grateful for the participation of Youth group leaders, teachers and their groups and classes respectfully, who have been competing against each other in a friendly challenge. Engaging youth in community science and nature exploration is a fantastic way to foster curiosity, promote environmental awareness, and inspire the next generation of conservationists.

The City Nature Challenge relies on the use of the iNaturalist app and website to document observations. Even if you don’t know how to identify the species you’re observing, help is available through iNaturalist’s automated species identification feature and the community of users, including professional scientists and expert naturalists. It’s easy to participate – simply download the 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 can log back in later to learn more about what you’ve spotted as teams of experts review and update the information.

By participating in the City Nature Challenge, you are contributing to global efforts to conserve biodiversity and protect our natural world. Biodiversity is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, providing food, medicine, and other resources, and supporting cultural and recreational activities. Unfortunately, biodiversity loss is a pressing issue, with many species threatened with extinction, including insects, which are suffering from the sixth global extinction event. This has consequences for our birds and other wildlife, and addressing biodiversity loss is a critical part of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 to conserve life on land.

Documenting biodiversity on iNaturalist can help us track trends in increases and declines in wildlife populations, which can inform conservation efforts and help us better understand the state of our local ecosystems. It’s a meaningful way to contribute to scientific research and make a difference in protecting our natural heritage for future generations.

As we reach the final day of the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge on May 1, we invite everyone to join us in this exciting competition. Whether you’re participating by yourself, with your family, or as part of a group, every observation counts! Let’s work together to raise the number of observations, species, and engagement in our city, and put Saskatoon and Area on the world stage for the City Nature Challenge 2023. Who will be the one who adds the last ever observation for the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon and area, today May 1 before the midnight bell tolls?

To learn more about the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon and Area, please visit FriendsAreas.ca. Thank you for your participation and support in conserving our urban biodiversity!

Planned events

Discover the Natural Wonders of Saskatoon with the City Nature Challenge

Are you someone who loves spending time outdoors, observing the beauty of nature? Are you always intrigued by the diverse range of flora and fauna that surrounds us, but don’t know where to begin your journey to explore and document them? Look no further! The City Nature Challenge Saskatoon and area is the perfect opportunity for you to unleash your inner naturalist, and connect with the world around you in a meaningful way.

The City Nature Challenge is an annual international event where cities compete to see who can document the most species over a four-day period. This year, Saskatoon and area is participating in the challenge from April 28 to May 1, and you can be a part of it! You can join in as an individual, or as part of a group, and make observations of any plants, animals, fungi, or other organisms you see in your backyard, on your walks, or during your outdoor activities.

So far, the challenge has been off to an incredible start, with 136 species documented, including an American Mink, wolf spiders, zebra spiders, crab spiders, paradise jumping spiders, ducks, geese, robins, mourning cloak butterflies, blue jays, compton tortoiseshell butterfly, grebes, and pelicans, to name a few. With 46 identifiers and 20 observers already contributing, there’s no better time to get involved. Just use the explore feature in iNaturalist to see what has been discovered in Saskatoon already.

But why should you participate in the City Nature Challenge? For starters, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, explore new areas, and connect with nature in a deeper way. Not only that, but by making observations and documenting the species you see, you’re contributing to vital conservation research that can help protect and preserve our planet’s biodiversity. Plus, it’s a fun and engaging way to challenge yourself and learn new things.

So what are you waiting for? Download the iNaturalist app, and join us in taking part in the #CNC #CityNatureChallenge Saskatoon and Area! You can participate on your own, with your family, or as part of a group event, and every observation you make helps contribute to our understanding of the natural world. Let’s work together to document the incredible diversity of species that surround us, and make a difference for our planet’s future. Learn more at FriendsAreas.ca. or at Hints and tips

There are still two great events to join during the challenge, or just document nature on your own with iNaturalist on your smartphone!

Nature Census: Discovering Wildlife Wonders Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, Saskatoon, SK Monday 05/01/2023 07:00:00 PM

Wildlife Expedition: Find Your Wild Side George Genereux Urban Regional Park, Saskatoon, SK Sunday 04/30/2023 02:00:00 PM

Wildlife Montage. Red Winged Blackbird, White Tailed Deer Fawn, Garter Snake, JackRabbit, Mallard Ducklings, Black Crowned Night Heron

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

Celebrating the Beauty of Nature: First Day of City Nature Challenge Comes to an End

As the first day of the City Nature Challenge draws to a close, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the participants in Saskatoon and Area who have downloaded the free iNaturalist app and taken pictures and sound recordings of the biodiversity and signs of life in our community. Your dedication and enthusiasm are truly inspiring!

We are thrilled to report that we have received a total of 126 observations, spanning across 36 different species. Among the unique sightings were butterflies and bees out already in the spring, Trembling Aspen catkins, and mallards back from down south. These observations provide valuable insight into the natural world around us and help us to better understand the biodiversity in our community.

We would also like to thank the identifiers who have helped us to confirm the species of the observations submitted so far. Your expertise is invaluable to the success of the City Nature Challenge, and we are grateful for your contribution.

And of course, we want to recognize the observers in Saskatoon and area who have taken the time to explore their surroundings and capture the beauty of the natural world. Your efforts have helped to increase our understanding and appreciation of the biodiversity in our community.

But the City Nature Challenge is not over yet! There are still four days left, with bioblitzes to engage in on Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm, and on Monday at 7 pm. We encourage all participants to take part in Saskatoon and area and continue to submit their observations.

Remember, the City Nature Challenge is a chance to break free from the daily routine and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. It’s an opportunity to search, snap, and share for nature, and to discover the wonders of the world around us.

As we move forward with the challenge, we encourage all participants to continue to submit their observations and share their experiences with others. Remember, every observation counts, and together, we can make a significant impact on our understanding of the natural world.

So start practicing now! Get out there, explore your surroundings, and see what you can find. Who knows what unique sightings and discoveries await you?

And don’t forget to use the iNaturalist app to document and share your observations. Great news, spring is back and it’s the happiest time of the year! Let’s make the most of it and continue to celebrate the beauty of nature together.

Join us for the City Nature Challenge, taking place from April 28 to May 1. Together, we can make a difference and help to protect the natural world for generations to come.

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 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 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!

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.

Join the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge 2023: A Celebration of Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage!

April 28 to May 1, 2023, Saskatoon and several other cities across the Prairie Provinces are gearing up to participate in the global City Nature Challenge (CNC). This exciting event encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to explore their local natural surroundings, observe and document biodiversity, and contribute valuable data to scientific research. But the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge goes beyond just a celebration of nature – it also honors and respects the land’s rich cultural heritage, as the area is situated in Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis people.

As we embark on this thrilling adventure, it’s important to acknowledge and learn from the histories, languages, and cultures that shape our communities. The CNC slogan, ‘City Nature Challenge,’ has been translated into Michif, the language of the Métis people, as NATOONA (Search for… in Cree), PIMATSHIHK (Life… in Cree), and DANS LA VIL (In the City… in French). This translation reflects the interconnectedness of nature, language, and culture, and highlights the importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity in our exploration of the natural world.

During the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge, you have the opportunity to observe, photograph, and make sound recordings of various species. But remember, it’s essential to respect wildlife and their habitats, and never disturb or harm them in any way. To enhance your experience, you can also explore the Michif Dictionary for correspondences of the biodiversity you encounter during the challenge. This will allow you to deepen your understanding of the local flora and fauna and appreciate the unique cultural connections to the land.

For those who are interested in learning more about Michif language and culture, you can also try the Michif Insect word search puzzle or the Michif word search, available as downloadable resources. These activities provide a fun and engaging way to expand your knowledge and appreciation of the Métis language and heritage while participating in the City Nature Challenge.

Participating in the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge is a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, learn about local biodiversity, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the area. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or new to the world of wildlife observation, this event offers something for everyone. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure of exploration and discovery. Let’s come together as friends, in harmony with the land, and make the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge 2023 a memorable experience for all!

Discover the planned events, or create your own individual nature quest. In your business, group, school, or classroom challenge others to get involved!

Saskatoon and area will compete for the title of the most Biodiverse City. We need your help. The goals are to engage the public in the collection of biodiversity data, with three awards each year for the cities and areas that 1/ makes the most observations, 2/ find the most species, and 3/ engage the most people. We’re so excited to have this fun friendly competition with a chance to place Saskatoon and Area on the World Stage for the City Nature Challenge 2023! Learn more at FriendsAreas.ca April 28 to May 1, 2023

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

Making a Difference: Environmental Preservation and Sustainable Development Goals

As an avid nature lover, you understand the importance of preserving our planet’s ecosystems and the unique species that inhabit them. That’s why your recent donation to Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc is such a meaningful contribution to the conservation efforts taking place in the 474 acres of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas. Fri, Mar 3, 2023 is World Wildlife Day.

With your donation, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas will be able to make a significant environmental impact on providing education and awareness around preserving species at risk, restoring ecosystems, and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Saskatoon Afforestation Areas comprise woodlands, meadows, and wetlands and are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.

One of the key ways that the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas will use your donation is through citizen science bio blitzes identifying invasive plant species that threaten the native plant and animal populations. This ecological restoration project will help to preserve species at risk and restore balance to the ecosystem.

Goldenrod Gall Fly Eurosta solidaginis Conservation Status: imperiled (S2S4) in Saskatchewan, CA (NatureServe)

Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), species at risk — Goldenrod Gall Fly Eurosta solidaginis Conservation Status: imperiled (S2S4) in Saskatchewan, CA (NatureServe)

In addition to ecological restoration, your donation will contribute to advancing several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas are committed to working towards Life on Land, Life Under Water, Climate Action, and Sustainable Cities. Enlisting community support through tours and engagement events park stewards understand the mandate of the City of Saskatoon and Meewasin who aim towards preserving the natural environment and restoring ecosystems, the organization is taking concrete action towards achieving these goals.

For example, advocating for the removal of invasive plant species and encouraging the replanting native ones, the organization is promoting sustainable land use practices and contributing to the Life on Land and Climate Action goals. By maintaining the wetlands, they are also contributing to the Life Under Water goal by preserving the health of nearby water bodies and the species that depend on them.

In conclusion, your donation to Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc will make a meaningful environmental impact on preserving the varied ecosystems, and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park, are a precious natural resource, and your contribution will help ensure they are protected and conserved for generations to come. We believe in the spirit of Witaskêwin, living together on the land. We believe this project can be part of an effective long-term strategy to focus our vision on this ideal. In a significant way this project allows the past to meet the present and future. The rich geological, historical, natural, and cultural heritage of the areas honours where we have been. Science, conservation, and hands on learning about the land, the environment and sustainability ensure our future. Thank you for your support!

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

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