Promoting Responsible Outdoor Behavior: Applying the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace in Urban Afforestation Areas
As use of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park increases, it becomes paramount for all visitors to be mindful of their impact on the land and on the experiences of others. Even seemingly small actions can have significant consequences for the environment and for fellow park-goers. It’s important for each of us to reduce our impact on the trail and its surroundings, as thousands, even tens of thousands, of others will follow in our footsteps.
Urban afforestation areas such as the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park serve as vital green spaces for recreation, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education. However, with rising visitation rates, these areas face threats such as littering, habitat degradation, and trail erosion. To address these challenges, it is essential to promote responsible outdoor behavior grounded in the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace.
The application of Leave No Trace principles in urban afforestation areas is crucial for minimizing environmental degradation and maintaining the integrity of natural ecosystems. By adhering to principles such as “Plan Ahead and Prepare,” “Travel on Durable Surfaces,” such as trails and “Leave What You Find,” visitors can mitigate their ecological footprint and preserve the quality of these green spaces for future generations.
To combat these issues, it is essential for visitors to adhere to responsible outdoor practices. This includes carrying a garbage bag to collect litter, staying on designated trails to avoid soil erosion, and protecting riparian areas around wetlands. Reading park identification signs to understand regulations and special concerns is also crucial.
One common but often overlooked issue is the disposal of biodegradable food waste. While some may view it as harmless, leaving food waste behind can detract from the natural beauty of the trails and pose risks to wildlife. Additionally, litter, invasive species, habituated wildlife, trail erosion, and polluted water sources are among the many challenges facing these areas.
Biodegradable items such as apple cores, orange peels, and banana skins can take weeks or even years to decompose, so it’s important to pack out all food waste. The principle of “pack it in, pack it out” should guide all outdoor activities to minimize environmental impact.
Furthermore, visitors should refrain from damaging live trees or plants, avoid introducing non-native species by wiping and cleaning cycle tires or footwear.
Many of us have a deep appreciation for the afforestation areas. As we enter the 13th year of drought in 2024, it’s essential to be mindful of the heightened risk of fires. Smoking and lighting fires are prohibited by city greenspace bylaws to protect these natural spaces and prevent potential wildfires hazardous not only to the afforestation areas but also to neighouring residential spaces, and agricultural fields, and rail traffic.
Avoid constructing any structures or furniture within the afforestation areas, and refrain from bringing wood into these natural spaces. Additionally, do not store wood within the forest to prevent the spread of Dutch elm disease, which is transmitted by elm bark beetles.
Let’s show respect towards fellow visitors and ensure the quality of their experience in these natural areas. It’s important to remember that these lands and waters are shared spaces, and there may not be enough room for exclusive use by any one individual or group. By practicing kindness and consideration towards others, we can foster a sense of inclusivity and allow everyone to connect with nature on a personal level.
When moving swiftly along the trails, whether jogging, skiing, or biking, it’s crucial to remain in control and be mindful of other park users, including those with assistive devices and young children. Before overtaking others, it’s polite to announce your presence and pass with caution, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
As we enjoy our time outdoors, we’re likely to encounter fellow outdoor enthusiasts. To facilitate the passage of others, we can step off the trail onto a durable surface like dry grass or a rock. Bikers should always yield to hikers and runners, and everyone should yield to individuals using assistive devices. By practicing these simple courtesies, we can ensure a positive and enjoyable experience for all park visitors.
Let’s allow the natural sounds of the environment to take precedence. It’s best to avoid raising our voices or making loud noises while in the afforestation areas, as this can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere and disturb wildlife. Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of wildlife during their sensitive periods, such as mating, nesting, raising young, or winter hibernation. By minimizing our impact on these occasions, we can help ensure the well-being of wildlife and maintain the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
It’s important to refrain from feeding wildlife, whether intentionally or unintentionally. This prohibition extends to pet waste, including kibble present in your pet’s feces therefore park users should scoop the poop at all times. To prevent any inadvertent feeding of wildlife, it’s essential to keep pets under control at all times while in the afforestation areas. If unable to ensure proper control, it’s best to leave pets at home to avoid any potential disturbances to the natural ecosystem and wildlife habitats. By respecting this guideline, visitors can help maintain the balance of the environment and ensure the well-being of both wildlife and domestic animals.
By following these guidelines and practicing kindness and consideration towards others, we can ensure that our afforestation areas remain pristine and accessible for all to enjoy. Let us all do our part to preserve these natural treasures for generations to come.
Effective implementation of Leave No Trace principles requires collaborative efforts between park management, stakeholders, and visitors. Educating the public about the importance of responsible outdoor behavior and providing accessible resources such as informational signage and educational programs are essential steps towards fostering a culture of environmental stewardship in urban afforestation areas.
In conclusion, the adoption of Leave No Trace principles offers a framework for promoting sustainable recreation practices and preserving the ecological integrity of urban afforestation areas. By embracing these principles, visitors can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, enhancement of visitor experiences, and creation of inclusive outdoor spaces for all.
Expanding on Environmental Impact:
Upon traveling to the site, it’s crucial to be mindful of the potential impacts of human activity on the surrounding environment. Afforestation areas, like Richard St. Barbe Baker and George Genereux Urban Regional Park, are vulnerable to various forms of degradation, including littering, the spread of invasive species, habituation of wildlife, trail erosion, and pollution of water sources.
Upon arrival, visitors should take a moment to observe their surroundings and assess the condition of the site. If litter is present, it’s essential to document this observation and reflect on its implications. Consider how the sight of litter affects the overall experience and how it may impact the local ecosystem.
To address this issue, visitors are encouraged to take proactive steps to improve the area’s condition. Bringing along a garbage bag presents an opportunity for individuals to engage in a positive impact challenge. By collecting litter and properly disposing of it, visitors can contribute to making the environment more pleasant and inviting for themselves and future park users.
In summary, being mindful of the environmental impacts associated with human activity and taking action to mitigate them is essential for preserving the integrity of urban afforestation areas. By adopting responsible behaviors and actively participating in conservation efforts, visitors can play a significant role in maintaining the beauty and sustainability of these natural spaces for generations to come.
Bibliography:
- Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. (2021). The Leave No Trace Seven Principles. https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/
- City of Saskatoon. (2024). Green Space Bylaws. https://www.saskatoon.ca/city-hall/your-property-utilities/bylaws-policies/bylaws/smoking-bylaws
- National Park Service. (2020). Leave No Trace: A Guide to the New Wilderness Etiquette. https://www.nps.gov/articles/leave-no-trace-seven-principles.htm
For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park
For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
For more information:
NEW P4G District Official Community Plan
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com
Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map
Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map
Blogger: FriendsAfforestation
Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.comFacebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park
Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area
Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas
Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )
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Richard St. Barbe Baker
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. George Genereux Urban Regional Park. 