The Success of City Nature Challenge CNCYXE2023 Saskatoon and Area: Unique Sightings and the Importance of Citizen Science

The City Nature Challenge is a global event that encourages people to explore and document nature in their local areas. Between April 28 – May 1, 2023, Saskatoon and the surrounding area participated in the challenge, and the results were impressive. Even in these very early spring months there were 831 observations, a whopping 246 species discovered, 116 identifiers, and 37 committed observers, the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon was a success.

Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias — The CNC ‘City Nature Challenge,’ CNCYXE2023 Natoona pimatshihk dans la vil in the Michif Language

The challenge provided a platform for citizens to participate in citizen science, and document unique sightings. Kathlin in the Saskatoon area documented some exciting bird finds during this mass migration season, but her favourite was a Great Blue Heron eating a rodent. This sighting was pretty spectacular, and it was exciting to spot the heron through the reeds.

An American mink was another exciting visitor in the neighbourhood of Sutherland, Saskatoon. This semi-aquatic animal is an unusual sight in the city, and it was a great find for those who spotted it.

The challenge also helped document species that are at risk or vulnerable. The Horned Grebe is a species at risk in Canada due to habitat loss and degradation. Prairie Violet or crowfoot violet is vulnerable and thought to grow in only about 100 places in the entire province of Saskatchewan. The Gray Comma butterfly, listed as common on the Saskatoon Nature Society’s published checklist, was confirmed for the first time on iNaturalist.

Sara mentioned that the challenge also helped to document the presence of rare or hard-to-find species, such as the Togwotee Harvestman and the Whirligig beetle. The Hydrobius fuscipes, a species never before recorded in the Saskatoon area on iNaturalist, was observed three times during the challenge. Whirlgig beetles are hard to photograph, and this is a rare observation of one just chilling! It is also the very first research grade observation of the genus in the saskatoon area on iNaturalist.!

In addition to the unique sightings, the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon also highlighted the importance of early detection and rapid response to invasive species. The Common Buckthorn was found, and this invasive species requires early detection and rapid response activities. It is a noxious weed, a hazard to other trees “a tree killer”, and a menace to oat crops.

Finally, the challenge also highlighted the vulnerability of some species to pollution and human activity. The American White Pelican is at the top of the aquatic food chain, making it vulnerable to biomagnification and bioaccumulation of pollutants. The Goldenrod Gall Fly, Lily Leaf Beetle, Common Grackle, Canada Wild Rye, and Green Ash are also at risk due to factors such as habitat loss, population reduction, and invasive species.

The success of the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon and the surrounding area is a testament to the power of citizen science and community engagement. Through participation in events like this, citizens can make meaningful contributions to scientific research and help protect the natural world around them.

In addition to the unique sightings and discoveries made during the City Nature Challenge CNCYXE2023 Saskatoon and Area, we would like to express our appreciation for the many naturalists who came out and added to the conversation about biodiversity.

Their passion and dedication to nature were evident in the many observations they made, the insights they shared, and the enthusiasm they displayed. It is through their efforts that we were able to achieve such great success during this year’s challenge.

One of the great things about the City Nature Challenge is that it encourages people to get outside and explore the natural world around them. It is through this exploration that we gain a greater appreciation for the complexity and beauty of our local ecosystems.

We were fortunate to have many experienced naturalists, nature enthusiasts and biologists participate in this year’s challenge, and their expertise and insights were invaluable in helping us identify and understand the many species we observed.

But we were also thrilled to see so many new nature enthusiasts join the challenge, many of whom were able to discover and document species they had never seen before. This is exactly the kind of engagement we hope to inspire through events like the City Nature Challenge.

So to all of the naturalists – just starting out, and experienced- who participated in this year’s challenge, we extend our deepest appreciation and thanks. Your efforts have not only contributed to our understanding of local biodiversity but have also inspired a new generation of nature enthusiasts to get out and explore the natural world. We look forward to seeing what we can discover together in the years to come.

So if this all sounds exciting, please download the free iNaturalist app to your smart phone, explore the City Nature Challenge and Saskatoon on your computer at home and join in any time of the year! Find it! Snap it! Share it! Be the Voice for Nature. Stay tuned for summer and fall events and BioBlitzes.

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.com Facebook 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

Thank You for Joining Us! Take Part in the Saskatoon City Nature Challenge and Discover Urban Biodiversity

Hello nature enthusiasts of Saskatoon and beyond! We want to extend a big thank you to all the observers who came out on the first day of the City Nature Challenge on April 28. Your enthusiasm and dedication to documenting urban biodiversity is truly appreciated!

For those who are not familiar with the City Nature Challenge, it is an annual, global, community science competition that aims to engage residents and visitors in documenting the plants, animals, signs of life and other organisms living in urban areas. The challenge is a bioblitz, where participants use the iNaturalist app and website to document their observations. The goal is to collect biodiversity data and promote awareness and appreciation of nature in our urban environments.

The City Nature Challenge is not just about making observations and identifying species, but also about engaging the public and fostering a sense of community in citizen science. Participants do not need to be experts in species identification, as help is provided through iNaturalist’s automated species identification feature and the community of users, including professional scientists and expert naturalists. It’s a great opportunity to learn from each other and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for nature.

The observations on the first day of the City Nature Challenge were phenomenal, with a large network of nature enthusiasts supporting the crowd-sourced species identification system. The power of image recognition technology has made it easier than ever to identify the plants and animals that are all around us. From birds and insects to lichens and fungi, there is so much to discover in our urban greenspaces, yards, sidewalks, afforestation areas, swales, and riverbanks.

If you haven’t participated in the City Nature Challenge yet, don’t worry! There’s still time to get involved. The challenge is happening from April 28 to May 1, 2023, and you can participate by yourself, with your family, or even as part of a group. Simply take pictures of wild plants and animals using the iNaturalist app or website during the observation period. The next stage is identifying what was found, which will take place from May 2 to May 7, 2023. The results will be announced on Monday, May 8, 2023.

In addition to being a fun and educational activity, the City Nature Challenge is also a great way to monitor the biodiversity in our urban areas and contribute to scientific research. By participating, you are helping to create a valuable dataset that can be used to better understand and protect our local ecosystems. It’s a meaningful way to make a difference in our community while enjoying the beauty of nature.

We also encourage educators to engage their students in the City Nature Challenge as a way to promote community science and nature exploration. There are activities available on the City Nature Challenge website that can be used in classrooms and for youth groups to teach about biodiversity, ecology, and citizen science. It’s a hands-on way to get students excited about nature and encourage them to become stewards of the environment.

So, let’s continue to explore, document, and appreciate the urban biodiversity in Saskatoon and the surrounding areas. Join us in the Saskatoon and Area iNaturalist City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2023 and be part of a global movement to celebrate and protect our natural world. Together, we can make a difference and contribute to our understanding of urban biodiversity. Happy observing!

Planned events

Thank You Observers! Join the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge for Biodiversity Conservation

Dear Nature Enthusiasts,

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the observers who came out on April 28, April 29, and April 30 for the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon and Area. Your participation in this global community science competition to document urban biodiversity has been truly inspiring!

The City Nature Challenge is an annual event that engages residents and visitors in finding and documenting plants, animals, and other organisms living in urban areas. The goals are to collect biodiversity data and raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation. This year, Saskatoon and Area are competing for the title of the most biodiverse city, and we’re excited to see the numbers rise higher and higher!

We’re especially grateful for the participation of teachers and their classes, who have been competing against each other in a friendly challenge. Engaging students in community science and nature exploration is a fantastic way to foster curiosity, promote environmental awareness, and inspire the next generation of conservationists.

The City Nature Challenge relies on the use of the iNaturalist app and website to document observations. Even if you don’t know how to identify the species you’re observing, help is available through iNaturalist’s automated species identification feature and the community of users, including professional scientists and expert naturalists. It’s easy to participate – simply download the iNaturalist app, take a sound recording or a photograph of nature in your local area, whether it’s a tree, plant, insect, signs of life or animal, and upload it to the app. You can log back in later to learn more about what you’ve spotted as teams of experts review and update the information.

By participating in the City Nature Challenge, you are contributing to global efforts to conserve biodiversity and protect our natural world. Biodiversity is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, providing food, medicine, and other resources, and supporting cultural and recreational activities. Unfortunately, biodiversity loss is a pressing issue, with many species threatened with extinction, including insects, which are suffering from the sixth global extinction event. This has consequences for our birds and other wildlife, and addressing biodiversity loss is a critical part of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 to conserve life on land.

Documenting biodiversity on iNaturalist can help us track trends in increases and declines in wildlife populations, which can inform conservation efforts and help us better understand the state of our local ecosystems. It’s a meaningful way to contribute to scientific research and make a difference in protecting our natural heritage for future generations.

As we reach the final day of the Saskatoon and Area City Nature Challenge on May 1, we invite everyone to join us in this exciting competition. Whether you’re participating by yourself, with your family, or as part of a group, every observation counts! Let’s work together to raise the number of observations, species, and engagement in our city, and put Saskatoon and Area on the world stage for the City Nature Challenge 2023.

To learn more about the City Nature Challenge in Saskatoon and Area, please visit FriendsAreas.ca. Thank you for your participation and support in conserving our urban biodiversity!

Planned events

What will you find above you in the sky, below you in a sidewalk crack, beside you in the fence picket, on the other side in the bark of the tree? What is crawling in the grass? What is flying overhead? What little insect creatures swim in the wetlands? Do you have eyes to see, and ears to hear? Are you connected with the land?

Wetlands Teachings

The Sacredness of Water and Indigenous People’s Relationship with Nature

Water is a precious, sacred resource that is essential to life. To Indigenous Peoples, water is not just a liquid, but rather a living entity that is connected to physical, spiritual, and cultural aspects of life. This relationship is deeply embedded in the culture of Indigenous Peoples, with many of their stories and teachings centered around water.

The West Swale wetlands, specifically Chappell Marsh, are home to many Indigenous Peoples, who have had a long and deep relationship with this area and the water that flows through it. In the traditional stories of the Indigenous Peoples, water is a powerful force that holds great spiritual significance. It is a symbol of life and brings healing, protection, and renewal.

This connection between Indigenous Peoples and the sacredness of water has profound implications for the human dimensions of water issues. For Indigenous Peoples, water is a source of life, and its protection is essential to their survival. For non-Indigenous park space users, including tourists and local communities, the issue of water and its sustainability is also of great importance.

The West Swale wetlands are vital to the health and well-being of both Indigenous Peoples and non-Indigenous park space users. By understanding and respecting the sacredness of water and the importance of its preservation, we can ensure that these wetlands are protected for future generations.

Water is a source of life, and the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and water is one that should be respected and cherished. In honoring this connection, we can ensure that the West Swale wetlands remain a vibrant and healthy ecosystem for all who inhabit it.

Cultural and Environmental Heritage Prairie Forest Guide app editor and writer environmental guardian. The ideal candidate should have:

An advanced knowledge of Traditional Ecological Knowledge and its application in afforestation areas
Experience creating and editing apps
Knowledge of dealing with invasive species, protecting species at risk, and using traditional and medicinal uses of plants
Excellent organizational and communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

If this sounds like the perfect opportunity for you, please send us your CV and a brief letter of interest outlining your experience and why you would be the perfect candidate for this role. Send to friendsafforestation@gmail.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Elm trees in the Snow showers on Saturday Nov 15 at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

More Information is at KIJIJI on this position

More about this Contract position is posted at Sask Culture

This is STAGE ONE of the Call for Tender.

Please email friendsafforestation@gmail.com for clarification or for further details

Interpreting and understanding the past

interpreting and understanding the past, reconciliation in the present.

As the world continues to evolve, technology has opened up new avenues for interpreting and understanding the past. A new virtual smartphone app has been developed with the goal of illuminating the story of the West Swale and the Yorath Island Glacial Spillway and the Paleoindian lifestyle and Ice Age Mammals, utilizing both archaeological and geological concepts and theories.

The app begins by providing an overview of the Paleoindian lifestyle, examining how early inhabitants of the area adapted to survive in their environment. Through a combination of interactive maps and 3D models, users can explore the landscape of the West Swale and Yorath Island Glacial Spillway, discovering how the environment shaped the lives of the Paleoindians. The app also features a comprehensive guide to the animals of the Ice Age, from mammoths to saber-toothed cats and everything in between.

In addition to these historical elements, the app also provides users with an understanding of the geological and environmental changes that have taken place in the area over time. By combining geological data with archaeological evidence, the app paints a picture of how the environment has evolved over the years. This includes a look at the effects of glacial and post-glacial events, as well as the impact of human activity on the area.

Finally, the app offers a comprehensive look at the impact of climate change on the environment, showcasing how the area has been affected by rising sea levels and changing temperatures. Through interactive maps and visuals, users can get a sense of the current state of the West Swale and Yorath Island Glacial Spillway, and how the environment is being impacted by human activity.

By combining archaeological, geological, and environmental information, this virtual app is a comprehensive tool for understanding the history of the West Swale and the Yorath Island Glacial Spillway. By providing users with an interactive look at the area’s past and present, the app aims to provide a better understanding of the environment and the impact of human activity on it.

Responsibilities for the virtual app editor/writer position include:

Editing and running reconciliation, traditional ecological ways of knowing fact checks for The GPS interpretive app existing content
Developing content for the app that is both accurate and engaging
Ensuring accuracy in all content related to traditional ecological ways of knowing
Collaborating with the app developers and other stakeholders to ensure the accuracy of the app

Qualifications for this position include:

Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, or a related field
Strong writing skills, with experience in cultural and environmental heritage writing
Understanding of reconciliation and traditional ecological ways of knowing
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

If you are an experienced Cultural and Environmental Heritage Writer and are interested in this stage one contract position, please send a CV and writing samples to friendsafforestation@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

West Swale and Richard St. Barbe Baker AFforestation Area wildlife Urban Forest Semi-Wilderness Area. Mountain Bluebird, White Tailed Deer Fawn. Barred Tiger Salamander or western tiger salamander. American Pelican, Mallard Duckling

More Information is at KIJIJI on this position

More about this Contract position is posted at Sask Culture

This is STAGE ONE of the Call for Tender.

Please email friendsafforestation@gmail.com for clarification or for further details

Virtual Wildwoods of Saskatoon

Wildwoods of Saskatoon

Virtual Film YouTube or Zoom

October 24 at 7:00 pm

Eventbrite page to sign up for the film viewing

Wildwoods of Saskaton Film Pamphlet for Download for more information

This heritage documentary will feature guest speakers who speak to the rich history and heritage of the two afforestation areas the 132 ha (326 acre) Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the 60 ha (148 acre) George Genereux Urban Regional Park planted to trees in 1972 under the Green Survival Program.

Wildwoods of Saskatoon Film Commemorate Oct 24 with us. Celebrate the 50th anniversaries of the afforestation areas AND UN World Development Information Day & International Day Against Climate Change

A Tangible Legacy. History, Geology, Ecology, Ecosystem services, Sense of place, Opportunities. Protecting memories and visualizing dreams. Exploration of the symbiotic relationship of the diverse urban community being nurtured in nature at the Wildwoods of Saskatoon.

This is the 50th anniversary of both afforestation areas planted to trees in 1972! These forests, wetlands and greenspaces are semi-wilderness wildlife habitats in Saskatoon providing two amazing areas to balance environmental sustainability and conservation with social, physical, and mental benefits for health and wellness in a natural greenspace setting.

Opening up to a deeply resonant perspective on greenspace heritage and the grandeur of forests director James Hay weaves the conversation from breathtaking aerial forest scenes and archival footage in a call to consciousness.

James Young, Métis bringing indigenous greetings & perspective

Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck Greenpriest of Saskatoon and friend of our forests St. Andrew’s College

City of Saskatoon Councillor Hilary Gough

Meewasin CEO Andrea Lafond

Sylvia Konkin Assistant School Administrator

Paul Hanley biographer of Richard St. Barbe Baker Man of the Trees First Global Conservationist and environmental columnist

Robert White, BSA, MES (Env. St.) Recipient of the first Men of the Trees Prize at the U of S

Jeff O’Brien, B.A., M.A., City of Saskatoon archivist

Dr. Bill Waiser B.A., M.A., Ph.D. O.C. SOM, Distinguished history Professor Emeritus

Reagan Wildeman Community member – Triathlon, Crossfit, Fatbike

Jeff Hehn Fatlanders Fat Tire Brigade Trail Coordinator

Dr. Ernie Walker, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. O.C. SOM, Archaeology & Anthropology professor emeritus

Wildwoods of Saskatoon Virtual Film October 24 at 7:00 pm CST (12:00 am UTC)

Day 3 of the City Nature Challenge Begins

A great Sunday, and a day that also promises great weather.

So it appears that we could be on the search for White-breasted Nuthatches, grouse and partridges, which would be keen for Sunday!

Sorry about the beavers post yesterday. They seem to be still under ice on any small creeks so that won’t work.

There have been other “birds of prey” sighted such as Cooper’s Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk, Peregrine Falcon and Sharp-Shinned Hawk which is pretty amazing!

Mosses are making a feature, as are those bracket or shelf fungi on the sides of trees. Sometimes these polypores on the trees are also called conks, and are an exciting find. Remember to peek at the rocks and trees you pass by for bright orange or green lichen!

Haven’t tried scooping any wetlands water yet! Has anyone ventured carefully close to the edge of a marsh to see if there is any larva or insects in the water?

Has anyone tried putting up a white sheet at night with a UV light to see if there are any moths attracted to the light? There are moths already this early in the spring!

There are some interesting insects out there if you smoosh around the leaves, or lift up a rock or small log. This might need a partner as the insects scurry away to get into cover again!

Well anyways, have a great Sunday, enjoy nature, and remember, International Dawn Chorus Day is the first Sunday of May! And it is sweet that iNaturalist loves to have the songs of songbirds recorded as a new feature! Take care out there. There is today and tomorrow yet to record nature for the City Nature Challenge. There is a bioblitz at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area today at 2:00 pm with Little John’s installed nearby in the parking lot for your convenience and will remain until end of working day tomorrow. Tomorrow there is a bioblitz out at the new and improved George Genereux Urban Regional Park at 7:00 pm, come out of curiosity!

Breaking News!

Snap

Share for Nature

FriendsAreas.ca

City Nature Challenge 2022

CNC YXE 2022 DNU – City Nature Challenge https://bit.ly/381g29B

BioSmart Saskatoon City nature Challenge CNCYXE https://bit.ly/3vUs3Ga

Celebrate 50 years! Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional park were planted to trees in 1972, 50 years ago. Come out and say Happy Birthday!

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

#CityNatureChallenge #iNaturalistCanada #Biodiversity Founded by @NHMLA and @CalAcademy Community Science hosted by #friendsdareas #NatureCanada #CityNatureChallenge #BioBlitz #CitSciMonth #CommunityScience #CitizenScience #UrbanNature #UrbanBiodiversity #NatureInTheCity #NatureIsEverywhere #NatureForEveryone #NatureNerd #cnc #outdoors #nature #conservation #photography #biodiversity #citizenscience #inaturalist #wildlife #plantlife #wanderlust #naturelovers #optoutside #instagood #picoftheday #volunteer #training #parks #optingoutside #CNCYXE #CNCYXE2022 #FriendsAreas #FriendsAfforestation #citizenscience #communityscience #EcologicalEmergency #naturelovers @sasktel #inaturalist #saskatchewanbirds #yxebirds #getoutdoors #naturephotography #wildlifephotography #citynaturechallenge2022 #yxe #thegreatoutdoors #citynaturechallenge2022 #citynaturechallenge #Canadacitynaturechallenge #citizenscience #Volunteering #nativeprairie #grasslands #wildlife #bees #pollinators #prairiepollinators #ExploreSask #NatureSask #wildlifewatcher #prairielife #sasklife #nativeprairie #speciesatrisk #conservation #KeepSaskWild #socialdistance #citizenscience #wildlifephotography #beesknees #LeavetheLeaves #NoMowMay #nature4all #FriendsAreas #FriendsAfforestation @FriendsAreas #saskatoon #saskatooning

National Volunteer Week

April 24 – 30, National Volunteer Week. Sign up for some amazing volunteer opportunities with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.!

Help show the world what Saskatoon and area’s biodiversity looks like—grab your smartphone, the free @inaturalistorg app, & join this year’s #CityNatureChallenge from April 29–May 2! Great for all ages. City Nature Challenge has virtual events for citizen scientists, and in-person events to be out in nature using iNaturalist supporting global conservation efforts. Help out with this Challenge to place Saskatoon – a city you are all proud of- on the world stage!

There are follow up events to become intrigued by the rich and diverse heritage, awareness of the amazing biodiversity in the afforestation areas of Saskatoon. What is an afforestation area? Where are the two remaining afforestation areas in Saskatoon? Come out to the Jane’s Walk and Arbor Week events!

Join the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. find out more about what is happening!

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation area is 132 hectares [326 acres] in size. As the property lines rather follow the section lines from the Dominion Survey system, it is readily seen that this afforestation area is 2 miles long by and irregular 1/2 mile wide.

George Genereux Urban Regional park, the other afforestation area, is 60 hectare [148 acre] in size. Again, the property lines follow the quarter section boundaries, and Sk Hwy 7 lops off a corner of the 160 acre quarter section, so generally speaking George Genereux Park is about 1/2 mile by 1/2 mile square except for the land taken away by the chopped off corner.

There are woodlands to explore and discover; there is culture and history of Saskatoon’s past to marvel at; there are geological and 7 hectares [17 acres] wetlands treasures for wonder and curiousity.

Celebrate 50 years! Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional park were planted to trees in 1972, 50 years ago. Come out and say Happy Birthday!

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

Goldenrod Gall Fly Eurosta solidaginis Conservation Status: imperiled (S2S4) in Saskatchewan, CA (NatureServe) — City Nature Challenge CNCYXE Saskatoon area versus YQRCNC Regina and area in a mini SK challenge

YouTube

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

Wetlands Curriculum

Do you want to explore the wetlands while you are out at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? Here are some teacher and student curriculum resources. Great for homeschoolers and families as well!

Threatened in Saskatchewan as recorded by SCDC Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes

Yellow-headed Blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) This is the brightly colored male. The female of the species will use the cattails, reeds or rushes standing above the surface of the water to weave a nest, and lay 2-5 eggs. — Threatened in Saskatchewan as recorded by SCDC Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes

Government of Saskatchewan fact sheets and Sask H2O Stewardship and Conservation

Sask Rivers Public School Division Grade 2 water curriculum supports

Watersheds Canada
- Module #1: Native Plants
- Native plants: main video lesson
  Plant video update #1 video
  Plant video update #2 video
  Plant video update #3 video
- Wildflower Field Guide Scavenger Hunt lesson plan PDF
  -> Plant Identification Guide table PDF
  -> Native Wildflower Identification cards PDF
  -> Favourite Wildflower table PDF
- Journey of a Seed lesson plan PDF
  Planting Native Wildflower instructions PDF
- Parts of a Plant worksheet (three adaptations) PDF
- Freshwater: main video lesson
- Frog Call Lesson and Game PDF
  -> Set of frog cards PDF
  -> Frog identification guide (adapted from the Toronto Zoo) PDF

Global Schools Program Sustainable Development SDG Activities Guides for the Classroom includes:

Quality Education and Inequality
Responsible Consumption
Clean Water and Sanitation

Forests Ontario Aquatics ( Assess wetlands and interpret data)

Ducks Unlimited

Canadian Water Resources Assocation Project Wet Instructional Resources

PCAP Become Water Wise teacher resources

Watersheds on Earth Teacher Grade 8 Resources

YPTE Water Cycle

Oldman Watershed Council [Oldman River in Alberta] Learning AT Home 2020 Websites, Games, Activities

Canadian Geographic Protect your Watershed

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.com Facebook 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

Congratulations!

The Government of Canada is collaborating with the Meewasin Valley Authority about the potential for the Meewasin Valley to become a National Urban Park. This initiative is one which would help protect biodiversity in urban centres, while providing urban residents with the capacity to connect with nature.

Image taken by Shweetha Gopinath, eco-photographer — Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)

“We see opportunities, potentially, in expanding the land base for Meewasin, we see opportunities in potentially looking at collectively investing in infrastructure, collectively investing in protecting biodiversity that exists within the Meewasin Valley Authority. And so I think that the federal government is willing to do its part with respect to financial contributions,” said Jonathan Wilkinson, minister of environment and climate change and minister responsible for Parks Canada.

“Canada’s National Urban Parks Program is part of a broader southern strategy of restoration that includes natural infrastructure, tree planting and regeneration of wetlands, and is vital in the fight to stem the tide of rapid biodiversity loss.”

During this United Nations Decade on Restoration, certainly preventing, halting and reversing the degradation of ecosystems is much needed. It is terrifically exciting that the Meewasin Valley Authority and the Government of Canada are doing their part in restoration!

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

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.com Facebook 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

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Wildwoods of Saskatoon

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