Honoring Varsity View Community Association

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Honoring Varsity View Community Association: A Beacon of Support for the City Nature Challenge

Introduction: In the heart of Saskatoon lies the vibrant neighborhood of Varsity View, where community spirit thrives amidst lush greenspaces and a rich history of environmental stewardship. At the forefront of this community stands the Varsity View Community Association, a beacon of support and collaboration in championing initiatives that celebrate and protect our natural heritage. Among these endeavors, their partnership with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas in promoting the City Nature Challenge shines brightly as a testament to their dedication to environmental education and community engagement.

A Legacy of Environmental Championship: The roots of Varsity View run deep with a legacy of environmental championship, as evidenced by the planting of 1500 spruce trees in President Murray Park under the supervision of Wyndham Winkler Ashley, a pioneer in Saskatoon’s Parks Board. Ashley’s tireless efforts in tree planting and community service have left an indelible mark on the neighborhood, shaping its landscape and fostering a culture of environmental consciousness that endures to this day.

Greenspaces and Community Centers: Varsity View boasts four breathtaking greenspaces—Raoul Wallenberg Park, Cumberland Park, Albert Park, and President Murray Park—each offering residents a serene escape into nature’s embrace. These oases of greenery serve as invaluable sanctuaries for both wildlife and community gatherings, reflecting Varsity View’s commitment to enjoying and celebrating its natural surroundings.

Additionally, the community’s rich tapestry is woven with essential amenities, including the municipal heritage site the Albert Community Centre, Kinsmen Children’s Centre, and Luthercare Communities, which provide vital support and services to residents of all ages.

Historical Significance and Urban Development: The historical significance of Varsity View is palpable, with landmarks like the iconic Bottomley House—a municipal heritage property—and the revered Albert School, which played a pivotal role in city sports and education for decades. The neighborhood’s evolution, spurred by the establishment of the University of Saskatchewan in 1907, reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and progress, with each street and structure bearing witness to the passage of time.

A Thank You to Varsity View Community Association: In light of their unwavering support and collaboration with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, we extend our deepest gratitude to the Varsity View Community Association. Your commitment to networking and spreading the word about the City Nature Challenge has been instrumental in inspiring residents to connect with and appreciate the natural wonders of our city. Your tireless efforts in organizing events, coordinating programs, and celebrating outdoor spaces exemplify the true spirit of community stewardship and serve as an inspiration to us all.

Conclusion: As we celebrate the beauty and diversity of nature through the City Nature Challenge, let us also take a moment to acknowledge and honor the invaluable contributions of the Varsity View Community Association. Together, we can continue to nurture and protect our natural heritage for generations to come, ensuring that Varsity View remains a vibrant and thriving community where nature and community flourish hand in hand.

President Murray, (1866-1945). Walter Charles Murray, the inaugural President of the University of Saskatchewan from 1908 to 1937, was a visionary leader and educator who shaped the institution’s educational policies and ethos, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence the university’s trajectory.  Known for his resourcefulness and skills in negotiation, Murray was actively involved in local, provincial, and national organizations, contributing to a greater understanding between native-born Canadians and settlers of European origin. His legacy lives on as a driving force in shaping the educational policies and community spirit of the University of Saskatchewan.

Saskatoon Public Library ImageWyndham Winkler Ashley (1882-1967), a passionate environmentalist, member of the Saskatoon and Saskatchewan Horticultural societies and charter member of the Saskatoon Parks Board for 45 years, dedicated his life to planting trees, beautifying the city’s streets, and promoting community service.   Did you know?  W.W. Ashley sent out approximately 2,000 packages of seeds each year for 12 years, helping to establish shelter belts across the province and contributing to the greening of Saskatchewan’s landscape. Ashley’s efforts not only beautified our cities but also played a crucial role in environmental conservation.

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!

Saskatoon and area will compete for the title of the most Biodiverse City. We need your help. The goals are to engage the public in the collection of biodiversity data, with three awards each year for the cities and areas that 1/ makes the most observations, 2/ find the most species, and 3/ engage the most people. We’re so excited to have this fun friendly competition with a chance to place Saskatoon and Area on the World Stage for the City Nature Challenge 2024! Find out more friendsareas.ca

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

Preserving Saskatoon’s Urban Forest

Preserving Saskatoon’s Urban Forest: A Collaboration with SOS Trees

As Saskatoon gears up for the City Nature Challenge from April 26 to April 29, one group stands out for their unwavering commitment to protecting the city’s green infrastructure: Save Our Saskatoon Trees Coalition (SOS Trees), formerly known as SOS Elms. SOS Trees supports the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas by networking and getting the word out about the CNC YXE as a collaborator.

The City Nature Challenge invites citizens to explore nature in their urban environment, documenting plant and animal species using the iNaturalist app. But for SOS Trees, the challenge goes beyond just appreciation—it’s about safeguarding Saskatoon’s trees from threats like elm bark beetles, emerald ash borers, and other pests.

SOS Trees are dedicated to preserving the urban forest. Our city’s trees provide crucial ecosystem services, from carbon sequestration to pollution reduction, and it’s vital that we protect them.

The coalition, comprising individuals passionate about tree preservation, educates the public on the importance of urban forests. Through trade shows, school programs, and community projects, they raise awareness about threats like Dutch Elm Disease and advocate for responsible tree management.

SOS Trees’ goal is to foster an ethic of environmental stewardship, to work with elected officials, developers, and community groups to ensure that existing trees are cared for and new ones are planted.

The term “urban forest” encompasses all trees within a community, whether on streets, in parks, or on private property. SOS Trees conducts tree inventories to assess the health of Saskatoon’s tree population and advocates for policy changes to support urban forest preservation.

In collaboration with the City Nature Challenge, citizen scientists appreciate the beauty of our urban forest but also to actively protect it. Look at leaves. Find out if there is evidence of the range expansion for elm bark beetles, emerald ash borer, elm zigzag sawfly, cottony ash psyllid or any other tree pests making their way in and around Saskatoon and area. Just take a picture on iNaturalist and scientists do the rest! Together, we can ensure that Saskatoon’s trees continue to enrich our lives for generations to come.

As Saskatoon embraces the City Nature Challenge, SOS Trees stands ready to champion the cause of urban forest preservation, reminding us that the health of our city’s trees is vital to the well-being of our community.

Elm Leaves

Fraxinus_pennsylvanica Green Ash

Red Osier Dogwood Cornus sericea leaf

CNCYXE CITY NATURE CHALLENGE SASKATOON HOSTED BY FRIENDS OF THE SASKATOON AFFORESTATION AREAS

Join us in the City Nature Challenge from April 26 to 29, where we can immerse ourselves in the wonders of nature and contribute to conservation efforts. Let us honor the UN SDG Life on Land and Sustainable Cities and Communities, as we work together to preserve our precious planet for generations to come.

With thanks to our sponsors and supporters SaskPower, SaskTel, Saskatoon Nature Society, Wild About Saskatoon, Caswell Hill Community Association, Varsity View Community Association, Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, SOS Trees, Montgomery Place Community Association and Varsity View Community Association. City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

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

CNC YXE 2024 host: Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas

The advocacy efforts led by the non-profit environmental charity, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc, host for the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge, stand as a remarkable example of community-driven conservation and sustainable development. Their integration of citizen science, particularly through the iNaturalist app, supports professional ecological assessments, a testament to a recommended innovative approach to environmental stewardship.

An ecological assessment and management (EAM) process serves as the backbone of master planning initiatives. Municipal planners and sustainability managers, along with ecologists, collaborate to design assessments that characterize ecological conditions, diagnose potential problems, and select management options to protect valued ecological attributes. This comprehensive approach aims to minimize or avoid harmful environmental impacts, emphasizing the safety of communities and the environment.

The incorporation of citizen science data from iNaturalist enriches these assessments by creating a baseline inventory of flora and fauna. This data not only enhances the understanding of the ecosystem’s biodiversity but also helps identify invasive species, species of concern, and ecosystem services to society. By leveraging technology and community participation, long range planners and sustainability project managers are able to gather invaluable data for their master planning efforts.

The mission and values of the organization underscore their commitment to conservation and community engagement. Through initiatives such as community clean-ups, educational events, and advocacy for nature-based solutions, they foster a deep connection between people and nature. Their dedication to environmental education, ensures that individuals of all ages are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for environmental stewardship.

Furthermore, the organization’s alignment with international initiatives, including the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrates their commitment to addressing global challenges at the local level. By focusing on SDGs such as Life on Land, Life below Water, Climate Action, and Sustainable Cities and Communities, they contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future for all.

In summary, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas exemplify the intersection of community empowerment, technological innovation, and environmental advocacy. Through their collaborative efforts, they not only protect and conserve natural areas but also inspire a sense of responsibility and stewardship towards the environment among citizens.

In a harmonious blend of community engagement and environmental stewardship, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas continues to champion the preservation and celebration of Saskatoon’s natural heritage. Through dedicated efforts, from educational initiatives to restoration projects, City Nature Challenge events, the organization embodies a commitment to nurturing a sustainable relationship between humanity and nature.

Invitation to join in the City Nature Challenge 2024 CNC YXE 2024

As we stride forward, embracing the global call to action garnered by supporting the UN SDGs, we extend an invitation to all residents to join us in the City Nature Challenge 2024. From April 26 to April 29, let us unite as guardians of biodiversity, exploring, documenting, and cherishing the diverse life forms that grace our city. With each observation recorded -sound or photo- we contribute to a collective narrative of our ecosystem’s vitality, empowering scientists and enriching our understanding of the natural world. Together, let us be the voice for nature, igniting a passion for conservation that reverberates across generations and continents. Join us in this exhilarating journey of discovery, as Saskatoon embraces biodiversity on the global stage.

Lichen City Nature Challenge CNCYXE

City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area versus YQRCNC Regina and area in a mini SK challenge

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

The Saga of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas

A Tapestry of Resilience: The Saga of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas

In the latest edition of Saskatoon Nature Society’s Nature Notes, a rich tapestry of history unfolds, weaving together the remarkable journey of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas. From the mid 20th century to the present day, this chronicle reveals the enduring spirit of stewardship and community that has shaped these two Saskatoon’s green spaces.

In the mid twentieth century, as the prairie winds whispered tales of ecological imbalance, visionaries embarked on a bold endeavor to reclaim the land from erosion’s grasp. Inspired by a desire to nurture biodiversity and combat the encroaching urban sprawl, the Afforestation Areas initiative took root. Through meticulous planning and laborious effort, thousands of trees were planted, 200,000 in fact, transforming barren landscapes into thriving ecosystems.

In the early years, dedicated individuals like Bert Wellman, City Manager and Director of Planning and Development; Bill Graham, urban planner and Alex Ligtermoet, Assistant Parks Superintendent laid the groundwork for what would become a beacon of conservation in Saskatchewan. Their tireless advocacy and hands-on involvement galvanized community support, laying the foundational sustainability inspiration for the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

Naming local landmarks and public areas not only instills a sense of identity in our communities but also cultivates a feeling of attachment and inclusivity. By christening our greenspaces honouring George Genereux, Richard St. Barbe Baker, Bruce Gordon and B.T. Chappell, we pay homage to historical narratives and evoke vivid imagery that reflects our shared past and present achievements.

Through years marked by shifting priorities and economic challenges, the Friends remained steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding these precious green spaces. As urbanization encroached upon the outskirts of Saskatoon, they became champions for the preservation of natural habitats, advocating for responsible development and mindful stewardship.

The Nature Notes article chronicles the trials and triumphs encountered along the way – from bureaucratic hurdles to the ongoing challenge of securing protected status for the afforestation areas. Through it all, a resilient community emerged, united by a common love for nature and a shared vision for the future.

Today, as climate change looms large and the pressures of urban expansion intensify, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas continue their vital work. Through restoration projects, educational initiatives, and community engagement, they strive to ensure that future generations will inherit a legacy of biodiversity and beauty.

As readers immerse themselves in the pages of Nature Notes, they are invited to witness the unfolding story of Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas – a story of resilience, collaboration, and the enduring power of nature. In these green spaces, where the echoes of the past mingle with the promise of the future, the spirit of stewardship thrives, reminding us of our interconnectedness with the land and each other.

We express our deepest gratitude to the Saskatoon Nature Society for presenting the insightful Nature Notes article, “Preserving Nature’s Legacy: The Journey with Saskatoon’s Afforestation Areas,” which serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation in our community.

Which is the segway for calling all citizens of Saskatoon and Area! from April 26 to April 29, 2024 we’re hoping you’ll venture outdoors and take part in #CNC #CityNatureChallenge Saskatoon and Area! Get out and about recording wildlife observations and contributing to this chance to place Saskatoon and Area on the world stage! CNC YXE DNU.

This #CNC event is hosted by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, and sponsored by SaskTel, SaskPower and the Saskatoon Nature Society with support from City of Saskatoon, Wild About Saskatoon, Varsity View Community Association, SOS Trees Inc., Rosewood Varsity View Community Association, Nutana Varsity View Community Association, Montgomery Place Varsity View Community Association. Please reach out should you wish to sponsor, volunteer or collaborate.

City Nature Challenge Saskatoon CNC YXE 2024 led by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

George Genereux Urban Regional Park Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

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