Earth Month and Indigenous Resurgence: Reclaiming Our Place in the Circle of Life

As Earth Month dawns upon us, we are called to take a stand on the United Nations Partnerships for the goals SDG 17 to collectively reclaim our rightful place as caretakers of the land and water. In the wake of centuries of colonization and environmental degradation, Indigenous peoples are leading a resurgence hand in hand teaching all peoples—providing education towards a reclamation and sharing of our traditional knowledge and practices in service of the Earth.

In the spirit of wahkohtowin, we recognize that everything is connected—that the health of the land is inseparable from the well-being of all living beings. Through Indigenous-led initiatives and grassroots movements, because we realize all are interconnected, nature and all cultures, we are honouring the UN SDG 16 Peace, justice, and strong institutions for protection of lands and teaching one and all how to be great stewards of the Earth.

Earth Month serves as a powerful reminder of our inherent responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world. From advocating for Indigenous land rights to promoting sustainable practices, we are working towards a future where the Earth and all its inhabitants can thrive in harmony.

Join us in the City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2024 April 26 – 29, an opportunity to celebrate the resilience of Indigenous peoples and the biodiversity of our shared planet. Let us walk together in solidarity, honoring the teachings of our ancestors and forging a path towards a more just and sustainable future.

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.

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

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.

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

Earth Month: A Time for Indigenous Environmental Justice

As we enter the sacred space of Earth Month, we are reminded of the urgent need to address the environmental injustices that plague our communities. From the desecration of sacred lands to the contamination of our waterways, Indigenous peoples continue to bear the brunt of environmental degradation.

In the face of adversity, we stand united in our commitment to protect and defend the Earth, our sacred mother. Drawing strength from indigenous ancestral teachings and the spirit of resilience that courses through our veins, we rise as guardians of the land and water.

Earth Month serves as a rallying cry for Indigenous traditional ways of knowledge, a call to action to honour the United Nations Susatinable Development Goal 17 Partnerships for the goals let us all come together in our collective rightful place as stewards of the Earth. Through advocacy, resistance, and grassroots organizing, we strive to hold accountable those who threaten our lands and livelihoods.

Join us in the City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2024 April 26-29, an opportunity to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities and celebrate the rich biodiversity of our shared planet. Let us honor the Earth as a living being, deserving of our respect, protection, and love.

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.

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

Reconnecting with Nature: A Prescription for World Health Day

In the age of modernity, where concrete jungles dominate and technology reigns supreme, it’s easy to forget our innate connection to the natural world. Yet, as we mark World Health Day on April 7, with a theme resonating “My health, my right,” it’s crucial to heed the wisdom of our ancestors and embrace the profound interconnections that bind us to all living beings.

Diseases and disasters loom large as causes of death and changes in abilities, and conflicts ravage lives, inflicting death, pain, and psychological distress. Moreover, the burning of fossil fuels not only fuels the climate crisis but also deprives us of our right to breathe clean air, with air pollution claiming a life every 5 seconds. In the face of such challenges, it’s imperative to recognize the intrinsic link between human health and the health of our planet.

As Sylvia McAdam beautifully articulates in her exploration of Cree law, wahkohtowin—the concept of kinship and interconnectedness—lies at the heart of our relationship with nature. It reminds us that we are not separate entities but rather part of a vast web of life, where every creature, plant, and element is interconnected. Maria Campbell‘s elucidation of wahkohtowin further emphasizes the importance of honoring and respecting these relationships, not just among humans but with all of creation.

In the spirit of World Health Day, let us reclaim our connection to nature and acknowledge our reciprocal obligations to the Earth and all its inhabitants. As we ponder the significance of this day and reflect on its vital role in promoting holistic well-being, let us immerse ourselves in the healing embrace of the natural world.

I invite you to join us at the City Nature Challenge, taking place between April 26 and 29 in Saskatoon and its surrounding areas. Whether through recording photos and sound recordings of organisms or participating in scheduled events, let us embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the intricate tapestry of life that thrives within our city.

In embracing nature’s abundance, we rediscover the essence of true health—harmony, balance, and interconnectedness. So, let us come together to celebrate the health of nature and the health of all organisms, for in doing so, we honor the sacred bond of wahkohtowin that binds us all.

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.

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

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.

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

Honoring Earth Month: A Call to Reconnect with Mother Nature

In the sacred embrace of Earth Month, we are called upon to reflect on our deep-rooted connection to the land, water, and sky. As we ponder the significance of this momentous occasion, let us pause to honor the wisdom of our ancestors and the teachings of wahkohtowin—the sacred kinship that binds all living beings.

In the vast expanse of time, Indigenous peoples have walked in harmony with the rhythms of nature, guided by the principles of respect, reciprocity, and reverence. Through the ages, we have recognized the inherent value of every plant, animal, and element, understanding that our well-being is intricately intertwined with the health of the Earth.

As we celebrate Earth Month, let us heed the call to action embedded within our Indigenous teachings. Let us reclaim our role as stewards of the land, protecting and nurturing the precious ecosystems that sustain life. Let us honor the land as our first teacher and the source of all wisdom, guiding us towards a path of harmony and balance.

Join us in the City Nature Challenge, a celebration of biodiversity and a testament to our collective responsibility to safeguard the natural world. Together, let us embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the wonders of our city and rediscovering the beauty and resilience of our Earthly home.

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