Embrace Nature’s Beauty: Join the City Nature Challenge

Springtime heralds the awakening of nature’s vibrant symphony, inviting us to immerse ourselves in its splendor. As April draws to a close, an exciting opportunity unfolds: the City Nature Challenge. From April 30 to May 5, 2024, enthusiasts across Saskatoon are still invited to participate in this thrilling event, celebrating biodiversity and fostering a deeper connection to our natural world.

Capturing Moments, Preserving Nature

Did you find yourself captivated by the delicate beauty of the Prairie Pasqueflower, the elusive charm of the Gray Partridge, or the playful antics of the Franklin’s Ground Squirrel? If so, your camera lens has become a portal to preserving these fleeting moments of biodiversity. Between April 26 to April 29, 2024, if you’ve captured images of these natural treasures, seize the opportunity to share them with the world. By uploading your snapshots to iNaturalist during April 30 to May 5, you contribute to a collective tapestry of biodiversity documentation.

Unveiling Nature’s Mysteries

Beyond capturing images, the City Nature Challenge extends an invitation to unravel nature’s mysteries through the identification process. As you immerse yourself in the treasure trove of uploaded photographs, embrace the role of a detective, unlocking the secrets of the natural world. From distinguishing between plants and animals to uncovering species identities, every contribution plays a vital part in expanding our understanding of biodiversity.

Empowering Through Participation

Participating in the identification process is not only an opportunity to contribute but also a journey of self-discovery. Delve into the fascinating world of flora and fauna, guided by iNaturalist’s intuitive suggestions and the invaluable insights shared in the identification hints and tips video. Together, we empower ourselves to become stewards of nature, nurturing a sense of responsibility towards preserving our planet’s ecological richness.

Join the Movement

As we embark on this exhilarating journey, let us embrace the spirit of the City Nature Challenge and kindle a passion for conservation within our hearts. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, your contribution matters. Together, let’s weave a narrative of biodiversity, celebrating the intricate tapestry of life that surrounds us.

The City Nature Challenge awaits your participation. From April 30 to May 5, 2024, let’s unite in our shared love for nature, capturing its beauty and unraveling its mysteries one snapshot at a time. Embrace the call of the wild, and let your connection with nature flourish in the embrace of community and discovery.

Are You Ready to Take the Challenge?

Mark your calendars, gather your photographs, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature. Join the City Nature Challenge and become a champion for biodiversity preservation. Together, let’s make a difference, one observation at a time.

Let’s Connect!

Visit iNaturalist on your compuier to upload your observations and dive into the exciting world of biodiversity documentation. Share your experiences, discoveries, and passion for nature using #CityNatureChallenge. Together, let’s inspire a global movement towards a more harmonious relationship with our natural environment.

Snapshots of Diversity: City Nature Challenge Invites You!

With thanks to our sponsors and supporters SaskPower, SaskTel, Saskatoon Nature Society, Wild About Saskatoon, Caswell Hill Community Association, SOS Trees Inc., Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas. Reach if you would like to sponsor the City Nature Challenge, or share the City Nature Challenge information as a collaborator!

#CityNatureChallenge #iNaturalistCanada #Biodiversity Founded by @NHMLA and @CalAcademy Community Science hosted by #friendsdareas #NatureCanada #CityNatureChallenge #BioBlitz #CitSciMonth #CommunityScience #CitizenScience #UrbanNature #UrbanBiodiversity #NatureInTheCity #NatureIsEverywhere #NatureForEveryone #NatureNerd #cnc #outdoors #nature #conservation #photography #biodiversity #citizenscience #inaturalist #wildlife #plantlife #wanderlust #naturelovers #optoutside #instagood #picoftheday #volunteer #training #parks #optingoutside #CNCYXE #CNCYXE2023 #FriendsAreas #FriendsAfforestation #citizenscience #communityscience #EcologicalEmergency #naturelovers @sasktel #inaturalist #saskatchewanbirds #yxebirds #getoutdoors #naturephotography #wildlifephotography #SNS #SaskatoonNatureSociety #citynaturechallenge2023 #yxe #thegreatoutdoors #citynaturechallenge2024 #citynaturechallenge #Canadacitynaturechallenge #citizenscience #Volunteering #nativeprairie #grasslands #wildlife #bees #pollinators #prairiepollinators #ExploreSask #NatureSask #wildlifewatcher #prairielife #sasklife #nativeprairie #speciesatrisk #conservation #KeepSaskWild #socialdistance #citizenscience #wildlifephotography #beesknees #LeavetheLeaves #NoMowMay #nature4all #FriendsAreas #FriendsAfforestation @FriendsAreas #saskatoon #saskatooning#naturelovers #inaturalist #saskatchewanbirds #yxebirds #getoutdoors #naturephotography #wildlifephotography #yxe #thegreatoutdoors #citizenscience #Volunteering #nativeprairie #grasslands #wildlife #bees #pollinators #prairiepollinators #ExploreSask #NatureSask #wildlifewatcher #prairielife #sasklife #nativeprairie #speciesatrisk #conservation #KeepSaskWild #socialdistance #citizenscience #wildlifephotography #beesknees #LeavetheLeaves #NoMowMay #nature4all #FriendsAreas #FriendsAfforestation @FriendsAreas

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.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

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 )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

““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

In Appreciation of Montgomery Place for support


In Appreciation of Montgomery Place for support

Montgomery Place: Where Remembrance and Environmentalism Meet

The Montgomery Place Community Association has been a steadfast ally in the preservation of history and the promotion of community engagement. In a gesture of kindness and support, they have offered to help spread awareness about the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2024 through their Facebook page, website, and a poster in their newsletter!  

The Montgomery Place neighborhood, situated near the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, has a rich history. Founded post-World War II, it serves as a poignant example of the Veterans Land Act subdivision, showcasing the benefits provided to veterans through government assistance. This community has adopted these greenspaces into their Local Area Plan, emphasizing their commitment to the preservation of natural environments.

Montgomery Place’s designation as a National Historic Site is a testament to its significance in illustrating the Veterans Land Act communities established after the Second World War. The community remains deeply connected to its origins, with street names, signage, memorials, and Remembrance Day services honoring the sacrifices made by veterans.

The Montgomery Place Community Association’s support for the City Nature Challenge reflects their dedication to the environment and community engagement. Their commitment to preserving history and fostering a sense of community underscores their pivotal role in honoring Canada’s military heritage and contributing to the local community’s vitality and identity.

The City Nature Challenge is an annual event that encourages people around the world to explore and document the biodiversity in their cities. By participating, individuals contribute valuable data to the global scientific community, helping researchers better understand and protect urban ecosystems.

Montgomery Place’s willingness to assist in promoting the City Nature Challenge underscores their dedication to fostering community engagement and environmental awareness. Their support is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of local institutions in driving positive change.

Thank you, Montgomery Place Community Association, for your ongoing support of community initiatives like the City Nature Challenge. Your generosity in sharing information about this event demonstrates your commitment to environmental awareness and community engagement. We are grateful for your efforts to make a positive impact on our community and the world.

Montgomery Place: Where Every Step is a Tribute to the Past and a Promise to the Future

With thanks to our sponsors and supporters SaskPower, SaskTel, Saskatoon Nature Society, Wild About Saskatoon, Caswell Hill Community Association, SOS Trees Inc., Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas. Reach if you would like to sponsor the City Nature Challenge, or share the City Nature Challenge information as a collaborator!

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 2024! Find out more friendsareas.ca

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.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

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 )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

““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

Wings of Wonder

Wings of Wonder: Celebrating World Migratory Bird Day 2024

As we navigate the critical juncture of climate change and biodiversity loss, the call to action resounds louder than ever. One essential step in this conservation journey is the creation of a biodiversity inventory, a collective effort to illuminate the richness of our urban wildlife and fortify measures for their preservation.

Red-blue Checkered Beetle Trichodes nuttalli on a Missouri Goldenrod Solidago missouriensis at the afforestation area
Red-blue Checkered Beetle Trichodes nuttalli on a Missouri Goldenrod Solidago missouriensis at the afforestation area

Insects to Insights: A Symphony of Migration

In the intricate tapestry of nature, insects emerge as the unsung heroes, serving as celestial sustenance for our bird population. Acknowledging their pivotal role, advocating for organic farming practices without pesticides and herbicides becomes paramount. But advocacy is not confined to words alone—it extends to the active documentation of our wildlife species.

"Nameless Scaria" Observer Roberto Sindaco Curator. Family Tetrigidae Pygmy Grasshopper. Citizen Science discovery and naming in Journal of Orthoptera Research
“Nameless Scaria” Observer Roberto Sindaco Curator. Family Tetrigidae Pygmy Grasshopper. Citizen Science discovery and naming in Journal of Orthoptera Research

Wings of Wonder, Voices of Conservation

Documentation, more than a mere record-keeping exercise, stands as a shield for species at risk. It acts as a sentinel, initiating early detection and rapid responses to the encroachment of invasive species. The process is dynamic, helping scientists decipher the ever-changing ranges of species and discerning the subtle shifts in the avian landscape.

Ranked S2 by SCDC Woodland Skipper Ochlodes sylvanoides
Ranked S2 by SCDC Woodland Skipper Ochlodes sylvanoides

Nature’s Tapestry: Celebrate the Dance of Migration

In 2024, World Migratory Bird Day takes center stage with a focus on insects and their profound importance. The emergence of insects in spring becomes a beacon of life, intricately intertwined with the grand spectacle of bird migration. Understanding this symbiotic dance unlocks the mysteries of migration, revealing the delicate balance that sustains our feathered friends.

Grasshopper_SparrowSMALL CC2.0 dominic sheronY
Grasshopper_Sparrow CC2.0 dominic sheronY

Advocate, Document, Conserve: A Pledge for Wildlife

To actively partake in this celebration of avian marvels, mark your calendar for the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge—a vibrant, collective endeavor hosted on iNaturalist. This is a great way to get practiced up in observation just in time for the World Migratory Bird Day . The City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2024 unfolds in two stages, inviting participants to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature:

  • April 26 – April 29, 2024: Capture images of wild plants, insects, birds, mushrooms, and more.
  • April 30 – May 5, 2024: Identify the discovered species.

The culmination of this nature odyssey will be unveiled on May 6, 2024, fostering a shared experience of discovery and renewal. So, step into the world of wings and wonder, join the City Nature Challenge events, and celebrate World Migratory Bird Day in the spirit of harmony and conservation.

With thanks to our sponsors and supporters SaskPower, SaskTel, Saskatoon Nature Society, Wild About Saskatoon, Varsity View Community Association, Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

Black Capped Chickadee a non-migratory bird species

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.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

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 )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

““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

The Saga of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas

A Tapestry of Resilience: The Saga of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas

In the latest edition of Saskatoon Nature Society’s Nature Notes, a rich tapestry of history unfolds, weaving together the remarkable journey of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas. From the mid 20th century to the present day, this chronicle reveals the enduring spirit of stewardship and community that has shaped these two Saskatoon’s green spaces.

In the mid twentieth century, as the prairie winds whispered tales of ecological imbalance, visionaries embarked on a bold endeavor to reclaim the land from erosion’s grasp. Inspired by a desire to nurture biodiversity and combat the encroaching urban sprawl, the Afforestation Areas initiative took root. Through meticulous planning and laborious effort, thousands of trees were planted, 200,000 in fact, transforming barren landscapes into thriving ecosystems.

In the early years, dedicated individuals like Bert Wellman, City Manager and Director of Planning and Development; Bill Graham, urban planner and Alex Ligtermoet, Assistant Parks Superintendent laid the groundwork for what would become a beacon of conservation in Saskatchewan. Their tireless advocacy and hands-on involvement galvanized community support, laying the foundational sustainability inspiration for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

Naming local landmarks and public areas not only instills a sense of identity in our communities but also cultivates a feeling of attachment and inclusivity. By christening our greenspaces honouring George Genereux, Richard St. Barbe Baker, Bruce Gordon and B.T. Chappell, we pay homage to historical narratives and evoke vivid imagery that reflects our shared past and present achievements.

Through years marked by shifting priorities and economic challenges, the Friends remained steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding these precious green spaces. As urbanization encroached upon the outskirts of Saskatoon, they became champions for the preservation of natural habitats, advocating for responsible development and mindful stewardship.

The Nature Notes article chronicles the trials and triumphs encountered along the way – from bureaucratic hurdles to the ongoing challenge of securing protected status for the afforestation areas. Through it all, a resilient community emerged, united by a common love for nature and a shared vision for the future.

Today, as climate change looms large and the pressures of urban expansion intensify, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas continue their vital work. Through restoration projects, educational initiatives, and community engagement, they strive to ensure that future generations will inherit a legacy of biodiversity and beauty.

As readers immerse themselves in the pages of Nature Notes, they are invited to witness the unfolding story of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas – a story of resilience, collaboration, and the enduring power of nature. In these green spaces, where the echoes of the past mingle with the promise of the future, the spirit of stewardship thrives, reminding us of our interconnectedness with the land and each other.

We express our deepest gratitude to the Saskatoon Nature Society for presenting the insightful Nature Notes article, “Preserving Nature’s Legacy: The Journey with Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas,” which serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation in our community.

Which is the segway for calling all citizens of Saskatoon and Area! from April 26 to April 29, 2024 we’re hoping you’ll venture outdoors and take part in #CNC #CityNatureChallenge Saskatoon and Area! Get out and about recording wildlife observations and contributing to this chance to place Saskatoon and Area on the world stage! CNC YXE DNU.

This #CNC event is hosted by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, and sponsored by SaskTel, SaskPower and the Saskatoon Nature Society with support from City of Saskatoon, Wild About Saskatoon, Varsity View Community Association, SOS Trees Inc., Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. Please reach out should you wish to sponsor, volunteer or collaborate.

City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon 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.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

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 )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!  

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

““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