Earth Month Reflections: An Ode to Mother Earth

In the gentle embrace of Earth Month, we are invited to pause and reflect on the beauty and fragility of our precious planet. Like a sacred poem whispered by the wind, the Earth speaks to us, reminding us of our interconnectedness and shared destiny.

As we contemplate the significance of this sacred time, let us pay homage to Mother Earth, the source of all life and sustenance. From the whispering forests to the flowing rivers, she nourishes our spirits and replenishes our souls.

In the spirit of wahkohtowin, let us honor the relationships that bind us to the Earth and all living beings. Let us tread lightly upon the land, mindful of our impact and our responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations.

Join us in the City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2024 April 26-29, a celebration of the Earth’s biodiversity and a testament to our collective commitment to environmental stewardship. Let us come together as one family, united in our love for the Earth and our determination to create a more sustainable and harmonious world.

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.

SmartPhone nature Photo using the free iNaturalist app

Lichen

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

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

• 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

Earth Month: A Song of Healing and Renewal

Earth Month: A Song of Healing and Renewal

In the gentle embrace of Earth Month, we are called to listen to the ancient songs of the land—the whispers of the rivers, the rustle of the leaves, and the heartbeat of the Earth herself. As we embark on this journey of healing and renewal, let us honor the sacredness of all life and rekindle our relationship with the natural world.

In the quiet moments of reflection, let us remember the teachings of our ancestors—the wisdom passed down through generations, guiding us towards a path of harmony and balance. From the teachings of wahkohtowin to the sacred ceremonies that honor the land, Indigenous peoples have long understood the interconnectedness of all living beings, nature and all cultures.

As we celebrate Earth Month, let us commit ourselves to the principles of stewardship and reciprocity. Let us tread lightly upon the Earth, leaving behind only footprints of love and gratitude. Through acts of kindness and compassion, we can nurture the Earth back to health and restore balance to our world.

Join us in the City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2024 April 26-29, a celebration of the Earth’s beauty and diversity. Together, let us explore the wonders of our city and rediscover the magic of the natural world. Through our shared love for the Earth, we can create a future where all beings can thrive in harmony and peace.

As we honor Earth Month, let us remember that the Earth is not just our home—it is our mother, our provider, and our source of life. May we cherish her always and strive to protect and preserve her for generations to come.

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.

City Nature Challenge CNCYXE

Ranked S2 by SCDC
Woodland Skipper Ochlodes sylvanoides

Threatened in Saskatchewan as recorded by SCDC Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes

Hairy Woodpecker male (note the red) (Picoides villosus)

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)

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

• 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

Jaza Miti – Fill with trees

In Kenya, a nation rich with biodiversity and environmental consciousness, a remarkable initiative has taken root—literally. As the government endeavors to plant 15 billion trees within a decade, a special holiday has been declared, allowing every Kenyan to actively participate in this ambitious tree-planting mission. The goal for the day is to collectively plant 100 million trees, emphasizing the shared responsibility of each citizen in nurturing the environment.

The International Tree Foundation, which found its roots in Kenya back in 1922 through the visionary Richard St. Barbe Baker, is truly honoured in this nation’s commitment to tree planting. Baker, witnessing the environmental challenges in Kenya, initiated the Dance of the Trees here—a symbolic event where warriors pledged as Watu Wa Miti or forest scouts; to plant 10 trees annually, do a good deed each day, and protect trees everywhere.

The recent tree-planting holiday, led by President William Ruto and supported by various government officials, showcases the spirit of unity and determination among Kenyans. The Jaza Miti app, meaning “fill with trees” in Swahili, serves as a digital companion, enabling individuals and organizations to record their tree-planting activities. This innovative tool not only monitors the exercise but also guides users in selecting appropriate seedlings for specific locations.

While this commendable effort has received overwhelming support, some challenges have been acknowledged, including the economic struggles faced by individuals amidst a challenging period. However, the positive response, with over two million registrations on the Jaza Miti app, demonstrates the nation’s eagerness to contribute to environmental conservation.

Environmentalists have praised the initiative, recognizing its potential to enhance climate resilience and combat the pressing challenges of climate change. Despite critiques regarding the choice of tree species and concerns about illegal logging, the government remains committed to the cause, with the tree-planting efforts expected to continue beyond the special holiday.

As the Jaza Miti app guides Kenyans in planting the right trees in the right places, the initiative aligns with the urgent global call for environmental conservation. President Ruto emphasizes that the conservation of the environment is a collective responsibility, echoing sentiments shared by environmental experts who view climate change as a serious threat to national security.

This Tree Planting Day in Kenya stands as a powerful tribute to the legacy of Richard St. Barbe Baker and the continued impact of the International Tree Foundation. It serves as a reminder that individual actions, when unified, can create a profound positive impact on the environment. As Kenyans come together to plant trees, they not only honor their rich environmental heritage but also contribute to a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.

In true form, Baker, established as the motto for the Men of the Trees “Twahamwe” meaning All for One, or “We are all working together as one man” which is how the Kenyan population came together on this public holiday of tree planting, Jaza Miti.

Mr President, let’s JazaMiti before nature explodes

Kenya Enlists Mobile Technology to Help Improve Forest Cover

Kenyans given public holiday to plant trees

Kenyans granted special holiday to plant 100M trees to help fight climate crisis

Kenyans get tree-planting holiday to plant 100 million seedlings

Kenyans get special holiday to plant 100 million trees

Kenyans get tree-planting holiday to plant 100 million seedlings

The entire population of Kenya has been given the day off to plant trees

Kenyans Get Tree-planting Holiday to Plant 100 Million Seedlings

Kenyans get tree-planting holiday to plant 100 million seedlings

Photo of Richard St. Barbe Baker Courtesy: University of Saskatchewan, University Archives & Special Collections,

Photo of Richard St. Barbe Baker Courtesy: University of Saskatchewan, University Archives & Special Collections, Richard St. Barbe Baker fonds, MG 71

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 )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