Protecting Saskatoon’s Elm Trees: A Community Call to Action

In the midst of Saskatoon’s natural beauty lies a hidden threat to one of its most iconic species: the American Elm. Revered for its majestic stature and graceful canopy, the American Elm (Ulmus Americana) faces a formidable adversary in the form of Dutch Elm Disease (DED). As guardians of Saskatoon’s urban forests, it is imperative that we unite in our efforts to protect these cherished trees in the afforestation areas from the devastating effects of DED.

The urgency of this mission is underscored during the Governance and Priorities Committee (GPC) meeting on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Page 177 of the 2023 Service, Savings & Sustainability Monitoring and Response Plan revealed alarming statistics: the Parks Department detected four positive cases of DED in 2023, triggering the implementation of the Dutch Elm Disease Response Plan. This comprehensive plan involved the immediate removal and disposal of infected trees, as well as the initiation of elm wood sweeps in affected neighborhoods. Thank you for the prompt response by the city.

In response to this escalating threat, the City of Saskatoon launched a series of initiatives aimed at curbing the spread of DED which we are enormously grateful for. A Proper Elm Disposal Pilot program was introduced in 2023, offering free elm wood disposal for the month of October. The program aimed to address the barrier of cost associated with proper disposal, resulting in a significant uptake from residents. Based on its success, a program expansion is planned for 2024, further incentivizing prompt and proper disposal practices, stay tuned for further details.

One of the key components of the City’s efforts is the provision of free disposal of elm wood for Saskatoon residents. This initiative aims to encourage the prompt removal of elm wood, reducing the risk of disease transmission to healthy elm trees. Residents are reminded that an elm pruning ban is in place each year from April 1 until August 31. However, this new initiative allows for the free disposal of any elm wood that has been completely removed, previously cut, fallen, or intended as firewood.

Recognizing the importance of early detection and prevention, residents are urged to familiarize themselves with the symptoms of DED. American elm trees with DED may exhibit symptoms as early as June, with leaves wilting, turning yellow, curling, and ultimately turning brown. To report any suspicious symptoms, residents can contact Urban Biological Services 306-975-2890. or complete the online form.

Preventing the spread of DED requires collective action and unwavering dedication. Residents can contribute to this effort by adhering to essential guidelines, such as never storing elm wood, refraining from pruning elms during the provincial pruning ban, and reporting dead or dying elm trees to the City. By working together, we can protect Saskatoon’s urban forest and ensure the continued vitality of our beloved American Elm trees.

In conclusion, the imperative of following proper protocols for Elm management cannot be overstated. As stewards of Saskatoon’s natural heritage, it is incumbent upon us to take proactive measures to safeguard our urban forests for generations to come. Let us stand united in our commitment to protecting Saskatoon’s Elm trees and preserving the beauty of our cityscape.

Remember, our actions today will shape the future of our urban forest. Let’s stand united in our efforts to preserve Saskatoon’s Elm trees for generations to come.

Elm Leaves

American Elm Ulmus Americana autumn leaf

Elm Leaves Drawing

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

A Heartfelt Thank You to Chris and Liz: Keeping Our Dog Park Clean

Dear Park Visitors,

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to Chris and Liz for their incredible dedication and hard work in keeping our South West Off Leash Recreation Area clean and safe for everyone.

This spring, Chris and Liz took it upon themselves to clean up the dog poop left behind by our furry friends over the winter months. Their selfless actions have made a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of our beloved park.

While their efforts are truly commendable, it’s important to remember that they wouldn’t have to work tirelessly if every pet owner did their part to scoop after their own pet. In gratitude we recognize that the City of Saskatoon generously provides pet waste pick-up bags and trash bins for this purpose, making it convenient for all visitors to dispose of their pet’s waste responsibly.

Chris and Liz’s commitment to keeping our park clean not only benefits human visitors but also ensures a safer and more enjoyable environment for our canine companions. Their actions exemplify the true spirit of community and environmental stewardship.

Additionally, we would like to express our gratitude to Barb and Garry for their artwork on the new posters, which help raise awareness and support Liz and Chris’s efforts in maintaining the cleanliness of the park.

When Chris and Liz arrived at the dog park, they observed the site covered in dog poop and felt compelled to take action. They brought with them a garbage bag and worked tirelessly to make the area look more pleasant. We can all assist their efforts by also carrying a garbage bag with us when visiting the park and disposing of pet waste responsibly. If you bend down to pick up after your dog, pick up a few extra while there! It makes a huge difference to the park, and to Chris and Liz as well.

Let us all come together in the spirit of Richard St. Barbe Baker, who coined the motto “TWAHAMWE,” which is Swahili for “All Together or Pull Together,” for the International Tree Foundation. Let us also heed our Saskatchewan provincial motto, “Multis e gentibus vires” (From Many Peoples Strength).

Once again, a heartfelt thank you to Chris and Liz for their collaboration as park users in keeping our South West Off Leash Recreation Area clean and enjoyable for all. Your dedication and commitment are truly appreciated.

Additionally, it’s essential to recognize the potential health risks associated with dogs ingesting poop. While it may seem harmless to dogs, the ingestion of poop from other dogs or animals can lead to illness. Parasites, viruses, and bacteria present in feces pose serious health threats to dogs. Hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms are among the parasites that dogs can contract through the ingestion of poop.

Therefore, it’s crucial to discourage dogs from eating poop and to also promptly clean up after our own pets to minimize the risk of illness and maintain the overall health and well-being of our furry companions and the biodiversity of the forest.

Bibliography:

• City of Saskatoon Dog Parks
• International Tree Foundation
• Saskatchewan Provincial Motto

Keep it Clean Keep it Green Scoop that Poop

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 )

Advertisement

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

Celebrating Dr. Don Bailey: A Legacy of Health and Inspiration

In the heart of Saskatoon, nestled among the lush greenery of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, echoes the spirit of an extraordinary man whose influence has rippled through generations. Our organization, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, is dedicated to conserving greenspaces, including the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, inspired by Dr. George Genereux, an Olympian and close childhood friend of Don Bailey.

Dr. Don Bailey, an esteemed professor and pioneer in health promotion, left an indelible mark on the landscape of Canadian academia and public health. As we gather to honor his memory Tuesday, March 26, 2024 3 – 4pm CST we invite you to the Don Bailey Lecture Series put on by the U of S, so we can all embark on a journey to uncover the remarkable story of this visionary leader.

Born in Saskatoon during the tumultuous era of the Great Depression, Don Bailey’s upbringing was imbued with resilience and determination. After graduating from the University of Saskatchewan, he pursued further education in the United States, culminating in a Ph.D. from Indiana University. Returning to his roots in Saskatoon, Don embarked on a lifelong journey dedicated to advancing the frontiers of health sciences.

At the forefront of Don’s illustrious career were his groundbreaking research projects, each a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving public health. From the Saskatchewan Growth and Development Study to the Lifestyle Inventory Fitness Evaluation and the Bone Mineral Accrual Study, Don’s pioneering work shed light on critical aspects of human development and well-being.

Yet, it was Don’s involvement with ParticipACTION that catapulted him into the national spotlight as a champion of physical activity and healthy living. Serving on the board for over two decades, Don played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s initiatives, including the iconic media campaign highlighting the fitness levels of Swedish and Canadian men.

In the spirit of his enduring legacy, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas have revived the ParticipACTION Community Challenge, igniting a passion for active and inclusive lifestyles across Saskatoon. Through a series of events throughout June, we aim to foster community pride and engagement, embodying Don’s vision of a healthier, more vibrant society.

As we eagerly anticipate the 2024 Don Bailey Lecture Series, we are greeted by Dr. Adam Baxter-Jones as the distinguished speaker. Dr. Baxter-Jones, a renowned scholar in the field of children’s growth and maturation, embodies the spirit of innovation and excellence championed by Don Bailey.

Don Bailey was a member of the Board of Directors of ParticipACTION Canada since its establishment in 1971.

In his final days, surrounded by loved ones, Don Bailey’s legacy lives on—a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. As we reflect on his remarkable life and contributions, let us carry forward his legacy with pride and purpose, striving to make the world a healthier and happier place for all.

In the words of Dr. Don Bailey himself, “Dem Bones” tells the tale of resilience and strength, reminding us of the importance of nurturing our bodies and minds. As we honor his memory, let us continue to build upon his legacy, ensuring that his dream of a healthier world becomes a reality.

Rest in peace, Dr. Don Bailey, knowing that your legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those you’ve touched. The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas are honoured to submit that we are working on reviving the Saskatoon ParticipACTION Community Challenge in Saskatoon which is committed to including everyone from equity deserving groups throughout the entire population to embark in an active lifesyle. Stay tuned for more details and how you can support and become involved in the Saskatoon ParticipACTION Community Challenge happening in the month of June! Contact us friendsafforestation@gmail.com to collaborate!

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

Empowering Saskatoon: A Call to Action for Climate Resilience

As we stand on the precipice of unprecedented environmental challenges, the imperative for collective action has never been more apparent. Saskatoon, a city nestled in the heart of the Canadian prairies, is at the forefront of pioneering initiatives that seek to harness the power of its citizens in the battle against climate change.

Your Voice, Our Future

The City of Saskatoon beckons its residents to participate in a momentous occasion—the first-ever Climate Action Budget for 2024/2025. In the spirit of democracy, your voice becomes the driving force that shapes the destiny of Saskatoon’s environmental policies. The avenue for your expression: a simple act of letter writing or a request to address the council before the deadline of November 27 at 5 p.m CST.

Giving Tuesday: A Beacon of Generosity

Enter Giving Tuesday, a day designed to embody the spirit of benevolence and altruism. On November 28, your generosity takes center stage, providing vital support to amplify our collective voices advocating for nature-based solutions. This is not just an act of giving; it is an investment in a future where Saskatoon stands resilient against the challenges of a changing climate.

Green Legacies: Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Consider the living legacies that grace Saskatoon—the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the expansive George Genereux Urban Regional Park. In 1972-1973, under the Green Survival Program, these lands were transformed into sanctuaries of greenery. They stand not only as testaments to afforestation but as living examples of the crucial role it plays in addressing the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.

Your Letter: A Catalyst for Change

Why does your letter matter? It matters because it is a catalyst, a spark that ignites the flame of awareness. Your words have the power to resonate beyond the confines of paper, shaping policies and decisions that echo the aspirations of a community committed to climate action.

A Lens to the Future: Insights from Joanna South, Director of Sustainability

Joanna South, Director of Sustainability, offers a profound perspective on the significance of this budget review, stating, “It is really a lens to the next multi-year business plan and budget that will allow council to make timely decisions before Green House Gasses are used. It allows council to better understand the climate impacts of the projects that are being projected.”

Keywords: Planting Seeds of Resilience

In the lexicon of this movement, keywords emerge as beacons of hope: climate resilience, afforestation, biodiversity conservation, green infrastructure, sustainable land management, eco-friendly practices. These terms are not mere rhetoric; they are the building blocks of a resilient and sustainable Saskatoon.

Join the Symphony: Your Symphony

As you raise your pen, envision joining a symphony of voices—a symphony that reverberates through council chambers, across the expansive landscapes of Saskatoon, and into the collective consciousness of a city united for a cause. Your letter is not just a piece of correspondence; it is a melody that contributes to the harmonious future of Saskatoon.

In the spirit of unity, resilience, and collective action, let us inscribe a new chapter in Saskatoon’s history. Let our letters be the instruments that compose a resilient future—one where nature-based solutions prevail, and our city stands as a beacon of sustainability.

António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, said “Infrastructure is a “crucial pathway” to generate economic growth, create decent jobs, transform energy systems, and advance sustainable development, [we need to] turn the infrastructure emergency into the infrastructure opportunity” He said, “We need to move forward, to build a future of resilience, sustainability, and inclusion.” Saskatoon, let our letters be the foundation upon which this future is built.

Image taken by Shweetha Gopinath, eco-photographer

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