The warmth of spring unfurls across the prairie lands, our avian friends embark on one of nature’s most awe-inspiring journeys – migration. However, amidst their majestic flights, many birds face an unexpected peril: collisions with windows. It’s a silent threat, but one that takes a heavy toll on our feathered companions.
Thankfully, communities across Canada are stepping up to mitigate this issue, and two initiatives stand out: the Calgary Urban Species Response Team and the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge.
The Calgary Urban Species Response Team, affectionately known as “CURST,” has launched a noble campaign to count bird window strikes during the crucial spring migration period, from April 1 to the end of May. They invite citizens to dim their lights and join their efforts. It’s a simple yet effective way to contribute to bird conservation.
But why stop there? In Saskatoon, another opportunity awaits. The Saskatoon City Nature Challenge (CNC YXE) beckons citizens to record bird strikes hitting windows through the iNaturalist app. This grassroots effort aims to turn the spotlight on an often-overlooked issue and empower individuals to become stewards of nature.
In the words of EcoFriendly West, the driving force behind these endeavors, it’s about being the voice for nature. It’s about taking action, joining hands, and making a difference.
So, why should we care about bird-window collisions? Beyond the immediate loss of precious avian life, these incidents have ripple effects across ecosystems. Birds play pivotal roles as pollinators, seed dispersers, and pest controllers. Their decline could disrupt delicate ecological balances, with far-reaching consequences for both flora and fauna.
Moreover, this issue hits close to home in Saskatchewan. Our province boasts a rich tapestry of bird species. Each window strike represents not just a statistic but a potential loss to our natural heritage.
However, there’s hope in collective action. By participating in initiatives like CURST and CNC YXE, we can turn the tide against bird-window collisions. Simple measures like applying decals to windows, installing bird-friendly glass, or dimming lights during migration periods can make a world of difference.
Ultimately, it’s about fostering a culture of coexistence between humans and wildlife. As stewards of this land, it’s our responsibility to ensure that future generations inherit a world where birds continue to grace our skies.
So, let’s heed the call of EcoFriendly West. Let’s turn out our lights, record bird strikes, and become the voice for nature. Together, we can make this a Saskatoon happening and pave the way for a brighter, bird-friendly future in Saskatchewan.
In the words of Rachel Carson, the pioneer of modern environmentalism, “In nature, nothing exists alone.” Let’s ensure that our feathered friends continue to thrive alongside us, enriching our lives with their beauty and grace.
City Nature Challenge – A Call to Action: April 26 – April 29, 2024, marks the City Nature Challenge—an opportunity to immerse oneself in nature and document its wonders. From wild plants to insects, birds, mushrooms, and more, participants capture the essence of living organisms and life remnants. 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, SOS Trees, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.
Nature’s Path to Wellness: Walk, Observe, Thrive on World Health Day.
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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““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
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. George Genereux Urban Regional Park. 