World Environment Day Every Species Counts!

Every Species Counts: A World Environment Day Celebration at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Today may be a great day for ducks, and wildlife, and a time for the events to take place when the woodland trails are not flooded. So it is with heavy hearts that the World Environment Day celebration is cancelled for tonight, June 5. That being said, read on to find out how to celebrate World Environment Day!

Here is World Environment Day summit taking place Friday June 7 in the morning

World Environment Day celebration of nature, conservation, and the intrinsic value of every species! As we mark World Environment Day, let’s honor our planet and reaffirm our commitment to its protection.

Why Every Species Counts

In the vast tapestry of life, every species has a vital role to play. From the majestic trees that tower above us to the tiniest insects hidden beneath the forest floor, each organism contributes to the intricate balance of ecosystems worldwide. World Environment Day offers us the opportunity to recognize and celebrate this biodiversity, reminding us that the health of our planet depends on the wellbeing of every species. Check out the Wildlife and Biodiversity of the afforestation areas! These pamphlets and informational pdf’s can be viewed online or downloaded

A Day of Discovery

World Environment Day is one filled with exploration and enlightenment. We need our spring rains after 13 years of drought, and please come out as often as you can for the June walks through the Afforestation Area, where you can marvel at the wonders of nature and learn about local flora and fauna. For World Environment Day today, brochures and pamphlets insights into the importance of conservation efforts and the urgent need to protect endangered species. Engaging activities for all ages throughout the PartipACTION Community Challenge will inspire curiosity and foster a deeper connection to the natural world.

Climate Action in Focus

As we revel in the beauty of our surroundings, let’s also reflect on the pressing environmental challenges we face. Climate change threatens ecosystems and species around the globe, demanding urgent action and innovative solutions. Our event will spotlight nature-based solutions to climate change, showcasing the power of wetlands, forests, and trees to mitigate its impacts. Through informative materials (attached), we’ll explore how individuals, communities, businesses, and governments can contribute to a sustainable future for all.

Join the Movement

Together, we can make a difference. Let’s stand in solidarity on World Environment Day, taking action for climate change, united in our commitment to safeguarding our planet and its precious biodiversity. Whether you’re a seasoned environmental advocate or just beginning your journey, there’s a place for you in this collective effort. Join us for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park and be part of a global movement to protect and preserve our Earth for generations to come.

Climate Action Pamphlet your questions answered. Please reach out if you would like a download version of this pamphlet.

Celebrate the forests on another day in June

As Chief Seattle wisely said, “The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth.” Let’s heed these words and come together to honor and protect our shared home. World Environment Day is a reminder that every species counts, and every action we take matters. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate, learn, and take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future. See you at the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or George Genereux Urban Regional Park during the June ParticipACTION Community Challenge– where the beauty of nature awaits, and the promise of a better world beckons.

Help Saskatoon be crowned Canada’s Most Active Community and win $100,000 to support local sport and physical activity initiatives! Even though today is raining, please sign up for the ParticipACTION Community Challenge! Doing stairs, walking at work, exercising at home with any of the resources offered by the ParticipACTION Community Challenge are amazing. Talk to the groups you belong to and encourage them to take part, and register their events! Gardening, walking to the store, cycling in any of the June events all help Saskatoon be crowned Canada’s Most Active Community and win $100,000 to support local sport and physical activity initiatives!

Climate Action Brochure Please reach out if you would like a download version of this brochure.

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

Celebrating Culture and Nature: The Story Behind Temporary Wayfinding Ribbons


The City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon spans four days, from Friday, April 26 to Monday, April 29. Within the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, temporary signs adorned with plastic wayfinding ribbon have been strategically placed. These markers serve a dual purpose: firstly, to provide an interpretive story about specific sections of the forest, enhancing the educational experience for participants including school classrooms. Secondly, in the event of large groups splitting into smaller ones, these ribbons enable teachers and group leaders to navigate back to their transportation efficiently.

Guiding the Way: Temporary Markers in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

It’s essential to recognize that these markers are only temporary fixtures, intended solely for the duration of the Nature Challenge events. They play a crucial role in fostering pride in our heritage, celebrating our diverse culture, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world that surrounds us. Furthermore, they serve as a protective layer for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area.

Exploring Saskatoon’s Biodiversity: Wayfinding Ribbons Unveiled

We kindly request that these temporary signs and ribbons not be removed prematurely. Your cooperation in preserving and respecting these installations is immensely appreciated. Thank you for your understanding and support in safeguarding this precious natural resource.

Supporting Sustainability: Temporary Signage for City Nature Challenge

The city and Meewasin have mentioned that by knowing where the species at risk and the invasive species are located, it is easier to go forward for master planning. So your assistance is greatly appreciated to have another layer of protection for this greenspace please.

Join the #CityNatureChallenge from April 26 to April 29! Document Saskatoon and area’s nature in the free @iNaturalist app by taking photos of wild plants and animals—and help contribute to the world’s largest citizen science event. More at FriendsAreas.ca/events

With thanks to our sponsors and supporters SaskPower, SaskTel, Saskatoon Nature Society, Wild About Saskatoon, Caswell Hill Community Association, SOS Trees Inc., 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. Reach if you would like to sponsor the City Nature Challenge, or share the City Nature Challenge information as a collaborator!

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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

Preserving the Lifeblood of Our Planet: Celebrating World Water Monitoring Day

Introduction: On September 18th, we come together to celebrate World Water Monitoring Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of clean water and encouraging people to take action in protecting our precious water resources. As we delve into the naturalized green spaces of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, spanning over 192 hectares (474 acres) of man-made forests situated within the West Swale wetlands, we explore the significance of these unique geological formations in fostering biodiversity and safeguarding water ecosystems. In this article, we present seven excellent activities and programming ideas to engage the general public and foster a deep respect for wetlands, waterfowl, wading birds, and species at risk found within these natural habitats.

Activities and action plans

  1. Wetland Exploration and Birdwatching: Organize guided tours and birdwatching sessions to educate the public about the vital role wetlands play in maintaining water quality and supporting diverse wildlife populations. Participants can observe waterfowl, wading birds, and other species that rely on wetland ecosystems, fostering a deep appreciation for their ecological significance.
  2. Wetland Restoration and Conservation Projects: Engage volunteers in wetland restoration and conservation research and workshops within the afforestation areas. Activities may brainstorming advocacy for future potential activities such as removing invasive species, planting native vegetation, or creating wildlife habitats, contributing to the overall health and resilience of wetland ecosystems while fostering a sense of stewardship among participants.
  3. Educational Exhibits and Interpretive Signage: Request insight into educational exhibits and virtual interpretive signage throughout the afforestation areas, providing visitors with information on wetland ecology, the importance of preserving water resources, and the species at risk within these habitats. Engaging visuals and interactive displays can enhance public understanding and appreciation.
  4. Water Quality Monitoring Workshops: Engage classrooms and youth groups to engage in water quality monitoring workshops, providing the public with hands-on experience in assessing the health of local water bodies. Participants can learn about the factors influencing water quality, test water samples for various parameters, and gain insights into the importance of preserving clean and unpolluted water sources.
  5. Citizen Science Initiatives: Encourage the public to participate in citizen science initiatives focused on wetland conservation by using the free iNaturalist app. Collaborate with local research institutions or organizations to develop programs where volunteers can contribute to data collection, such as monitoring water quality, documenting species sightings, or assessing wetland biodiversity. By involving the general public, we create a sense of ownership and responsibility for these precious ecosystems.
  6. Nature Photography Contests: Organize nature photography contests centered around wetlands and water ecosystems. These contests can inspire photographers of all ages to capture the beauty and importance of wetland habitats, raising awareness and fostering a deeper connection with these fragile ecosystems.
  7. Community Engagement and Advocacy: Host community engagement events, such as public forums, workshops, or panel discussions, to raise awareness about wetland conservation and the importance of safeguarding water resources. These platforms allow for open dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collective action towards protecting our invaluable water ecosystems.

Conclusion: On World Water Monitoring Day, we recognize the paramount importance of clean water and the preservation of wetland ecosystems. The Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park stand as living testaments to the interconnectivity between man-made forests, the West Swale wetlands, and water quality. By engaging the general public through various activities and programming ideas, we foster a deep respect for wetlands, waterfowl, wading birds, and species at risk, instilling a sense of responsibility and stewardship for these vital natural resources. Let us come together to celebrate and protect our water ecosystems, ensuring a sustainable future for all species that depend on them.

To express your interest in the above activities or action plans or collaboration, or to inquire further about the non profit environmental charity as supporter, volunteer or to become a board member, please reach out to us at email: friendsafforestation@gmail.com.

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 )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