A Stroll in Safety: Afforestation Areas Embrace Jane Jacobs’ Vision.
At the afforestation areas there are now vehicle restriction barriers at the Afforestation Area formerly named George Genereux Urban Regional Park, and at the entrance to the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. There are now signs telling men, women and children that they are now entering the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, or entering the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area.
“Trees, forests, and other forms of life – you have not inherited them from your forefathers, you have borrowed them from your children yet to be born. Their preservation, their enrichment, is the solemn responsibility you bear.”
― Native American teachings
What happened as a result of signs and vehicle restriction barriers at the South West Off Leash Recreation Area, and at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and at George Genereux Urban Regional Park? What was the result of signs and vehicle restriction barricades? Illegal trespass has declined to nil. Illegal activity [i.e. trash in the park] has declined to nil. Woo Hoo!!!!!!! The greenspaces are now safe.
These portions of the afforestation areas are most definitely showing the progress in tune with the philosophy of Jane Jacobs ~ activist best known for her influence on urban studies [city planning] which introduced sociological concepts such as “eyes on the street”. Nature enthusiasts, dog walkers, bicyclists, photographers are coming out to these areas …. and …. really enjoying it. There is safety! This is wonderful progress!
Every year on March 8, International Women’s Day (IWD) marks a global celebration, serving as a pivotal moment in the women’s rights movement. IWD directs attention to critical issues like gender equality, reproductive rights, and the prevention of violence and abuse against women.
Progress Unveiled: Afforestation Areas Now Safe and Sound
“A city street equipped to handle strangers, and to make a safety asset, in itself, our of the presence of strangers, as the streets of successful city neighborhoods always do, must have three main qualities:First, there must be a clear demarcation between what is public space and what is private space. Public and private spaces cannot ooze into each other as they do typically in suburban settings or in projects.Second, there must be eyes upon the street, eyes belonging to those we might call the natural proprietors of the street. The buildings on a street equipped to handle strangers and to insure the safety of both residents and strangers, must be oriented to the street. They cannot turn their backs or blank sides on it and leave it blind.And third, the sidewalk must have users on it fairly continuously, both to add to the number of effective eyes on the street and to induce the people in buildings along the street to watch the sidewalks in sufficient numbers. Nobody enjoys sitting on a stoop or looking out a window at an empty street. Almost nobody does such a thing. Large numbers of people entertain themselves, off and on, by watching street activity.”
― Jane Jacobs, The Death and Life of Great American Cities
Have you walked the afforestation areas? Have you really walked these urban regional park to be able to discover and respond to the complexities which exist through observation? Who has walked George Genereux Urban Regional Park?
Jane Jacobs’ Dream: Eyes on the Street, Safety on the Sidewalk
How can the Afforestation areas be a “walkable safe location for all to enjoy”? And today, International Women’s Day (IWD), would women feel comfortable walking in the city, in all urban regional parks, and in the afforestation areas?
Walk the walk AND Talk the talk
Very wonderfully, full city addresses have been enabled for all city parks, and for the afforestation areas. An address very wonderfully aids in the safety process in cities, as addresses enable a call for help to friends or family and to emergency support.
The visitors include men, women and children.
The world’s forests are a shared stolen treasure that we must put back for our children’s future.
Desmond Tutu
Richard St. Barbe Baker OBE, Hon. LL.D. F.I.A.L., For.Dip.Cantab., ACF (9 October 1889 – 9 June 1982)
Cross Country Skiing in the Forest – a health benefit of Green Infrastructure and WinterCity YXE
“Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.”― Jane Jacobs
The question is asked again, would you, lady, gentleman or child, feel safe today, International Women’s Day (IWD) or any day in the City of Saskatoon, in its urban regional parks, in the Afforestation Areas and in your city? It is hoped that the answer to this question is a resounding “yes!”, if not why not? What can you do?
Observe, Experience, Do Something.
In honour of ~ International Women’s Day (IWD)~ perhaps a statue should be erected in the City of Saskatoon afforestation areas.
Why?
“I believe with Ruskin, that I must be just to the Earth beneath my feet, to the neighbour by my side and to the Light that comes from above and within that this wonderful world of ours may be a little more beautiful and happy from my having lived in it. “Richard St. Barbe Baker.
Sowing Seeds of Change: A Journey Inspired by Richard St. Barbe Baker
In the timeless expanse of the Sahara Desert, where whispers of ancient tales ride the winds, Richard St. Barbe Baker embarked on a crusade against the encroaching desertification—a journey fueled by a profound connection with nature, a dance with the trees, and a commitment to saving lives.
A Dance with the Trees: The Genesis of International Tree Foundation
Our story begins in Kenya, Africa, where Richard St. Barbe Baker, a visionary and global conservationist, founded the International Tree Foundation. The Dance of the Trees, a ritual he orchestrated with Chief Njonjo and the Kikuyu, marked the birth of an environmental movement. Reports reached him of tribes to the north caught in a wedge of vanishing forest, their lives threatened by the relentless advance of the desert.
“To be in a better position to help them,” Baker immersed himself in their language, folklore, and tribal customs. Initiated into their secret society, he became a guardian of history handed down through word of mouth—a living testament to the resilience of communities facing the oncoming desert.
A Call from Africa: Prince George’s Unique Calling
Fast forward to the sprawling green embrace of Saskatoon, where Prince George, Vice Chairman of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, hears a unique calling. Inspired by the afforestation namesake, Richard St. Barbe Baker, Prince George wishes to set foot on the soil where environmental conservation became a living reality.
The Friends, a grassroots sustainability charity, echo Baker’s commitment in their goal to create a demonstration site in Saskatoon. Prince George’s journey extends beyond personal development—it’s an opportunity for Saskatoon to shine on a global stage, showcasing commitment to sustainable practices, gaining recognition, and fostering innovative initiatives.
UNEA-6: A Global Platform for Local Visions
Prince George’s journey converges with the theme of UNEA-6—’Effective, inclusive, and sustainable multilateral actions to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.’ The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), born from the vision of Maurice Strong, resonates with the Friends’ mission—providing leadership, delivering science, and developing solutions.
Your Support: Planting Seeds for a Harmonious Future
This unique project lies beyond the proposed budget, making crowd sourcing vital. Your support is not merely financial; it’s a partnership in shaping policies that rejuvenate our planet. Prince George, undertaking his Master’s in Regenerative Sustainability, becomes a voice for nature, championing environmental and sustainability policies.
A Dance with Nature: Crafting Policies and Inspiring Change
As you join this dance, as a corporation your sponsorship becomes a symbol of shared values. Prince George, at UNEA-6, becomes a harbinger of change, carrying your logo with honor. A video or webinar encapsulating his journey will showcase your sponsorship and the collective efforts toward a harmonious future.
Planting the Future: A Desperate Plea for Support
The travel expenses for this transformative journey amount to $4000. Any contribution is immensely appreciated. Your support fuels the ripple effect, turning this unique opportunity into a tide of change. Community bottle drives will ardently supplement this mission, ensuring that the journey is not just Prince George’s but a shared endeavor.
Crowd Sourcing: A Collective Call for Environmental Action
Crowd sourcing becomes the means to support Prince George at UNEA-6, where he champions regenerative sustainability. This collective endeavor, with your partnership, becomes a catalyst for bold environmental action.
Sustainable Steps: UNEA-6 Unveiling a Tapestry of Environmental Stewardship
In the heart of Saskatoon, a grassroots sustainability champion, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, is cultivating a profound impact on the environment and community. Established in 2019, this non-profit registered environmental charity, with charity number 777143876 RR 0001, envisions a city where afforestation areas are not just preserved but celebrated for their ecological significance, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
1. Emotional Connection: A Love Letter to Nature
Our Mission: Protecting the afforestation areas isn’t just a duty; it’s a passion. Through brochures, field guides, documentaries, YouTube videos, and advocacy, we weave a narrative that stirs the soul, fostering a deep emotional connection to the land.
2. Impact and Change: Building Future Leaders
Youth Empowerment: Our focus extends beyond green spaces; it encompasses the youth. Prince George, Vice Chairman, embodies our commitment to building future leaders—nurturing qualities of leadership, dedication, teamwork, respect, sportsmanship, and perseverance.
3. Community Support: Unity in Green Initiatives
Grassroots Sustainability: Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas isn’t just an organization; it’s a community. Join us in our mission to create a demonstration site, restore habitats, install native plants, and protect endangered species.
4. Incentives and Rewards: Joining the Green Movement
Exclusive Sponsorship Opportunities: Corporations can be part of a movement that transcends boundaries. Sponsor Prince George at the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) and gain exclusive visibility on our website, social media, and even Prince George’s attire.
5. Trust and Credibility: Transparent and Open Partnership
Building Trust: Transparency is our cornerstone. From grants for fencing to prevent illegal activities to signage for safety, we operate openly with the city, green groups, and the community, ensuring a trustworthy partnership.
6. Alignment with Values: United for Sustainable Goals
Local Impact: Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, we aim to contribute locally to sustainable cities and communities. Our afforestation project stands as a testament to our dedication.
7. Social Influence: Join the Green Wave
Be Influential: Your support matters. Peer into the ripple effect—Prince George’s journey at UNEA-6 isn’t just personal; it reverberates through our community, echoing worldwide with your influential backing.
8. Exclusive Opportunities: Your Logo, Your Legacy
Sponsorship Legacy: Stand out with our exclusive sponsorship opportunities. Your logo, proudly worn by Prince George, extends your legacy beyond corporate boundaries to the heart of environmental change.
9. Awareness and Marketing: Green Dreams Unveiled
Marketing Impact: Your support won’t go unnoticed. We promise visibility, recognition, and a showcase of your commitment on our platforms. A chance to be part of an environmental movement that’s making waves.
10. Personal Goals and Recognition: A Personal Touch
Community Engagement: Dive into the heart of our campaign. Contributing isn’t just a financial investment; it’s a personal connection to nature, community, and the future.
As we embark on this unique project, we invite you to join hands. The journey is extraordinary, the cause is compelling, and your support is indispensable. Let’s create a legacy that echoes through the trees, resonates in our community, and reverberates globally. Together, we’ll craft policies that rejuvenate our planet, ensuring a harmonious dance with nature.