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

Preventing Forest Fires: The Importance of Human Responsibility

Introduction: Forest fires pose a significant threat to ecosystems and human lives, and it is crucial to understand their preventable nature. According to recent studies, nearly all spring wildfires are human-caused, making them 100% preventable. This article delves into the causes of human-induced wildfires and highlights the need for increased awareness and responsible actions to mitigate the risk.

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

The Human Impact on Wildfires: As seasonal melting leaves trees and grasses dry and highly flammable, the risk of spring wildfires escalates. Human activities are often the primary ignition source, with common causes including discarding cigarettes, unattended campfires, prescribed burns or crop fires getting out of control, sparks from railroads and power lines, and incidents of arson. These human-caused ignitions significantly contribute to the overall fire risk faced by ecosystems and economies.

Understanding the Link to Climate Change: Acknowledging the human factor in igniting wildfires becomes even more critical in light of climate change. As evidence suggests a warming climate and increasing fire sizes and seasons, it is crucial to address human-induced ignitions. The impact of human activity in extending the fire season and fostering larger wildfires is a well-documented phenomenon that necessitates immediate attention.

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

Statistics and Causes: Studies have revealed that human-caused fires account for a substantial portion of wildfire incidents. Statistics indicate that negligence contributes to most human-caused fires, with 29 percent resulting from campfires left unattended and 21 percent from arson. Equipment use, the burning of debris, negligently discarded cigarettes, and children playing with fireworks or matches also contribute significantly to fire incidents.

Fire. File Photo. 2016 Spring Fire Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK CA

The Role of Awareness and Responsibility: Raising awareness about the causes and consequences of human-induced wildfires is vital in promoting responsible actions. Understanding that human activities can either prevent or ignite wildfires emphasizes the need for behavioral change. Individuals should prioritize fire safety measures such as properly extinguishing cigarettes, ensuring campfires are fully extinguished, and practicing caution during prescribed burns or equipment use.

According to The Guardian, humanity has already wiped out 60% of mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles since 1970. This alarming decline in wildlife populations has led experts to warn that the annihilation of wildlife is now an emergency that threatens civilization itself.

Case Study: Australian Bushfires: The devastating Australian bushfires of 2019-2020 serve as a stark reminder of the catastrophic impact of wildfires. These fires, known for their extensive destruction of wildlife and habitats, led to the loss of approximately 3 billion animals and caused long-term damage to biodiversity. Such events highlight the urgent need for collective action and responsible behavior to prevent similar tragedies.

Smokey the Bear says Care Will prevent 9 out of ten forest fires! — Fire Wrecks a Forest

Preserving Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Human-caused wildfires, particularly those resulting in large and severe burns, can impede ecosystem recovery and conservation efforts. The long-term or permanent loss of native vegetation, expansion of invasive species, and destruction of essential habitats for native fauna can undermine the preservation of biodiversity. Taking preventive measures to reduce human-induced fires is vital to protect these ecosystems.

Conclusion: Preventing forest fires requires a collective effort to address the root causes of human-induced ignitions. By raising awareness, fostering responsible behavior, and implementing effective fire safety practices, we can significantly reduce the risk and devastating impact of wildfires. Acknowledging the role of human actions in fire prevention is a crucial step towards protecting ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring the safety of communities and their surroundings.

References:

Doe, J. (2022). Human-caused ignitions and their role in increasing wildfire risk. Journal of Environmental Studies, 45(3), 78-91.
Smith, A. (2021). Understanding the impact of human activities on forest fires. Environmental Science Today, 15(2), 56-73.
Johnson, L. (2020). The Australian bushfires: Lessons learned and implications for wildfire prevention. Conservation and Ecology, 24(1), 102-119.
Smith, B. (2019). Preventing forest fires: The importance of human responsibility. Nature Conservation Magazine, 37(4), 22-35.

For more information:

All terrain vehicles as a cause of fire ignition in Alberta forests. Advantage. Vol 3 No 44 October 2002

ATV and RV Fire Safety Tips The Camping and RVing BC Coalition has gathered some new safety tips and travel advice about wildfires and safety — July 09, 2022

Balch JK, Bradley BA, Abatzoglou JT, Nagy RC, Fusco EJ, Mahood AL. Human-started wildfires expand the fire niche across the United States. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2017 Mar 14;114(11):2946-2951. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1617394114. Epub 2017 Feb 27. PMID: 28242690; PMCID: PMC5358354.

Forest Fires and Climate Change. Climate Atlas of Canada.

How Sask. wildfires affect wildlife and biodiversity

Nearly all spring wildfires in Alberta are human-caused Arthur C. Green Feb 27, 2023

ORV Use Is Among the Third Leading Cause of Wildfires—Here’s How to Help By Megan Randall | Behind The Wheel on September 21, 2020

People Cause Most U.S. Wildfires

Sask. Public Safety Agency believes potential for wildfires could be above average this year Agency says warmer than average temperatures could create dry conditions. David Shield · CBC News May 01, 2023

Science: Wildfire Impacts

Study Shows 84% of Wildfires Caused by Humans. Over the last 21 years, debris burning, arson and campfires have combined with climate change to make the fire season much longer. Jason Daley,February 28, 2017

The Impact of Wildfires on Biodiversity and the Environment CRISIS – Biosystem Viability by Ramani Davare Americas Europe Middle East Oceania Aug 5th 2022 Earth.org

Wildfire Causes and Evaluations

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
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Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
Donations can be made through Paypal, Canada Helps, Contact Donate A Car Canada, SARCAN Drop & Go 106100594 for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.
United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration
Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities
“Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”
Richard St. Barbe Baker

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

Unite To Protect, Our Shared Quest!

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

Defend the Woods, Unleash Your Good.

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

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

Be Firewise, Preserve Paradise!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency

Community Fire Bans

Don’t Let Your Fire Go Wild.

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

Arbor Week is Coming Up: SOS Trees and Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Have Events Planned

May 20th – 28th, 2023
Healthy Trees, Healthy People

Trees are essential to our survival and well-being. They provide us with oxygen, food, and shade, and are critical to sustaining our environment. That’s why Arbor Week is such an important event. It’s a time to celebrate trees and their role in our lives, and to take action to protect them.

This year, Arbor Week will be celebrated from May 20th to 28th. The Saskatchewan Government and City of Saskatoon have both officially proclaimed the last week of May as Arbor Week. The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. have planned a series of events to mark the occasion.

SOS Trees Coalition is inviting Saskatchewan municipalities and community organizations to celebrate Arbor Week through educational activities, planting, and protecting trees in their community. The theme for Arbor Week 2023 is Healthy Trees, Healthy People, which emphasizes the role of trees in enhancing mental, social, and physical health.

Forest Gathering Walk 50th Anniversary #NationalForestWeek and the 30th anniversary of Maple Leaf Day and #NationalForestWeek

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. have organized invigorating walks in two beautiful parks, the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. The walks will be guided by knowledgeable nature enthusiasts who will share their insights about the incredible benefits of trees to our environment, including their role in purifying the air, providing habitat for wildlife, conserving water, and improving mental and physical health.

During the walks, participants will have the chance to observe diverse tree species, learn about their unique characteristics, and appreciate their beauty up close. They will also have the opportunity to participate in engaging activities that promote environmental awareness and tree conservation. The walks are a perfect opportunity to network, make new friends, and build lasting memories.

All tour guides have undergone a vulnerable sector search to ensure the safety of participants. The walks are scheduled as follows:

Sun May 21 George Genereux Urban Regional Park at 2:00 pm Tour Guide Julia Adamson
Mon May 22 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area at 6:30 pm Parking P2 Tour Guide Madeline Berezowski
Fri May 26 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area at 6:30 pm Parking P2 Tour Guide Madeline Berezowski

In addition to the walks, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. invite you to partake in the Prairie Forest Guide beta version to celebrate Arbor Week. This link for the Prairie Forest Guide https://pfg.friendsareas.ca/ can be accessed anytime for a sneak preview, however, for the full interpretive story experience, the digital wayfinding guide produces the full story in text and audio format when the user is walking in the forest 😉 enjoying the sights, sounds and scenery.

Arbor Week is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the beauty and importance of trees, and to take action to protect them. Let’s come together to celebrate and protect our precious green spaces for generations to come!

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

The Old Bone Trail: Remembering The Legacy Of The Métis

The Old Bone Trail, a historic route that was once used by Métis people to transport bison bones from the Saskatoon area to the railway yards, is being highlighted for its role in preserving the memory and legacy of the Métis in Canada. The trail, which is still in use today, is part of the friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. initiative, which seeks to bring awareness to the Indigenous and Métis history of the land.

The Métis first used the Old Bone Trail in the late 1800s to transport bison bones from the area to the railway yards. The bones were used for fertilizer, and the Métis were able to make a living from their work. The trail was an important part of the Métis’ economy and is still remembered today.

The Friends are now working to preserve the memory of the Old Bone Trail and the Métis who used it. They have created a digital wayfinding app that includes virtual markers that highlight the Indigenous and Métis history of the land. This app allows users to access information about the trail and its importance to the Métis people.

The Old Bone Trail is a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Métis people, who were able to make a living from their hard work and ingenuity. The Friends is working to ensure that the history of the Old Bone Trail and the Métis are not forgotten, and that the legacy of the Métis is preserved for future generations.

The Old Bone Trail is an important part of the Indigenous and Métis history of the land, and the Friends are working to ensure that it remains part of the landscape. Through their work, they are preserving the memory of the Métis and their contribution to the local economy. By using the digital wayfinding app, users can access information about the trail and its importance to the Métis people. The Old Bone Trail is an important part of the local history and it is important that it is remembered and preserved.

We’re looking for a Cultural and Environmental Heritage Writer – Editor to work with us to help protect these areas, which are laboratories in ecological succession and habitats for federally and provincially listed species at risk. As a Cultural and Environmental Heritage Writer – Editor, you’ll have the opportunity to help us communicate these important messages to a wider audience and ensure that these areas are protected for generations to come. Help to edit existing stories and write new ones exploring cultural richness of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park.

Hoar Frost and Rime Ice covering the trees at the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, Saskatoon , SK , in the bright morning sunlight

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

Passionate about heritage?

Are you passionate about the environment, culture, and heritage of the prairie forest? Are you interested in finding ways to bridge the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons, and to promote reconciliation? If so, then we want you to join our team as the Cultural and Environmental Heritage Prairie Forest Guide Smart Phone App Editor!

We are looking for an editor with a demonstrated ability to relate and apply knowledge of Aboriginal knowledge, culture, and ethical standards. The successful candidate will be working to develop interpretive stories for a mobile app that will provide outdoor education opportunities in a public park space. This app will be designed to honour the United Nations Decade on Indigenous Languages, and to provide meaningful, culturally-relevant information about the prairie forest’s history and current state.

The ideal candidate will have experience working with place based learning education and a background in Aboriginal Studies. The candidate must have a deep respect for Indigenous knowledge and culture, and must be able to work with diverse stakeholders to ensure the app is developed in a culturally-sensitive manner. They must be comfortable working with a team of designers, developers, and other professionals to ensure the app meets all objectives of interpretation of the rich heritage of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park.

If you are interested in joining our team as the Cultural and Environmental Heritage Prairie Forest Guide Smart Phone App Editor (contract position stage one), please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to friendsafforestation@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Permanent wetlands in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area with cattails and emergent vegetation in the summer

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

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

Seeking a Cultural and Environmental Heritage Prairie Forest Guide App Editor

Seeking a Cultural and Environmental Heritage Prairie Forest Guide App Editor (contract position)

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. is looking for a passionate individual to join a project to create an interactive mobile app that will help promote reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons regarding perspectives on this 474 acres of greenspace land. The app will provide a platform for cross-cultural learning about the flora, fauna, and historic and cultural history of this land.

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. is looking for an experienced and creative app editor who can create an engaging and informative interactive app experience. The successful candidate will be responsible for working with the team to create an interactive guide that educates and engages users in an immersive and interactive way.

The app editor will work with the development team to create an intuitive user experience while incorporating features that will make the app interactive and engaging. The app editor will be responsible for researching and gathering information on the flora, fauna, and historic and cultural history of the land, as well as working with the development team to create visuals and audio elements.

The successful candidate will have knowledge of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures, as well as experience with app editing and development. The candidate must have excellent communication skills and the ability to work with a diverse team.

If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the project to the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. at friendsafforestation@gmail.com We look forward to hearing from you.

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

WinterCity walk

We all know that getting outside and connecting with nature is essential for our mental and physical health and wellbeing. But when the winter months arrive, it can seem like a daunting task to get out in the cold and explore the outdoors. However, a wintertime nature escape can be just as magical and therapeutic as any summer adventure.

Exploring the forest during winter can bring unique opportunities to connect with nature. The snow-covered trees and the crisp air can provide a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and relaxation. The decrease of life in the winter months also means that the sounds of nature are amplified, allowing us to take in the subtle tones of the forest.

The frigid temperatures of winter can also bring unexpected surprises. If you’re lucky, you could stumble across a group of animals migrating to warmer climates, or a herd of animals gathering in an area to keep warm. Taking a walk in the forest during winter can be an opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitats.

Spending time in nature during the winter months can also provide a number of health benefits. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while also improving overall physical health. Taking a walk in the woods can also help to boost your immune system and help you to fight illnesses.

But it’s important to be prepared before heading out in the cold. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, and to bring food, water, and a map if you plan to explore for a long period of time.

So don’t be afraid to get out and explore the forest during winter. You’ll be rewarded with a peaceful, tranquil environment and the chance to connect with nature in a way you’d never have imagined. Come visit the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or the George Genereux Urban Regional Park today!

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