March 21st, marks the International Day of Forests, a global celebration highlighting the vital role of forests in our world. With this year’s theme, “Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World,” the focus is on the transformative power of innovative approaches to afforestation and reforestation efforts. These endeavors are not just about planting trees; they represent a crucial step towards climate mitigation and biodiversity preservation.
“Forests are ecosystems where rich biodiversity thrives, serving as home to 60,000 different tree species, 80 percent of amphibian species, 75 percent of bird species, and 68 percent of the world’s mammal species.”
Forests can help us limit climate change – here is how UNDP
Forests are not mere collections of trees; they are intricate ecosystems teeming with life. They provide habitats for an astounding array of species, making them essential for the planet’s biodiversity. St. Barbe Baker’s tireless commitment to encouraging tree planting internationally earned him the distinction of being the first Honorary Life Member of the World Wildlife Fund in 1989, a testament to his outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation.
As we ponder the significance of forests as homes to biodiversity, come out to the City Nature Challenge Events between April 26 and 29 to discover what might be found in Saskatoon!
Moreover, forests act as natural carbon sinks, playing a pivotal role in regulating the Earth’s climate. In the last decade alone, these land-based ecosystems absorbed a substantial portion of carbon emissions, stemming from human activities such as burning fossil fuels.
The legacy of environmental champions like St. Barbe Baker underscores the significance of individual efforts in safeguarding our forests. Utilizing organizations he founded with a global scope, or by motivating others, Baker played a pivotal role in planting billions of trees worldwide and conserving forests on an international scale. In recognition of his contributions, St. Barbe Baker was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of Saskatchewan on November 6, 1971. Subsequently, Queen Elizabeth II honored him with the appointment as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) during the 1978 New Year Honours. His commitment to preserving forests and inspiring global action serves as an inspiration for present-day conservationists.
“…today it is the duty of every thinking being to live, and to serve not only his own day and generation, but also generations unborn by helping to restore and maintain the green glory of the forests of the earth.”
Richard St. Barbe Baker
Furthermore, forests are not just vital for wildlife; they are also home to millions of Indigenous Peoples who have acted as their stewards for generations. These communities play a crucial role in forest conservation and management, utilizing traditional knowledge to ensure the sustainability of these ecosystems.
Innovative solutions are key to addressing the challenges facing our forests. From cutting-edge reforestation techniques to community-led conservation initiatives, there is a wealth of approaches that can drive positive change. International organizations with a global reach, initiated and those inspired by the likes of St. Barbe Baker, continue to spearhead tree-planting efforts and forest preservation projects worldwide.
As we commemorate the International Day of Forests, let us reflect on the importance of forests as essential pillars of our planet’s health. Through innovation and collective action, we can ensure that forests thrive for generations to come, safeguarding biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and fostering a better world for all.
The City of Saskatoon has been recognized for its commendable efforts in alignment with this year’s theme, “Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World.” Saskatoon stands out as one of six major cities selected to receive funding of up to $20 million from Infrastructure Canada’s Natural Infrastructure Fund – Large Project Stream. This substantial funding presents a significant opportunity for the city to further its Green Infrastructure Strategy implementation plan, known as “Pathways for an Integrated Green Network.” In December 2022, City Administration put forward the Natural Areas Management Pilot Report, advocating for the creation of pilot management plans for areas like the forest at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. With a joint investment exceeding $34 million, courtesy of the Natural Infrastructure Fund, Saskatoon’s Green Network continues to flourish, offering both residents and wildlife access to uninterrupted, high-quality green spaces and natural areas within the urban landscape.
“If a man loses one-third of his skin he dies; if a tree loses one-third of its bark, it too dies. If the Earth is a ‘sentient being’, would it not be reasonable to expect that if it loses one-third of its trees and vegetable covering, it will also die?”
Richard St. Barbe Baker
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:
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
Blogger: FriendsAfforestation
Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.comFacebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )
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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
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. George Genereux Urban Regional Park. 