🌲✨ Reflecting on 2023: A Year of Environmental Triumphs ✨🌳

As the sun sets on another year, we take pride in recounting the achievements and strides made by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc in 2023.[image by Vivian Allan]. In a world grappling with climate change and biodiversity loss, the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park stand as beacons of hope, showcasing the potential of dedicated afforestation efforts.

Covering 192 hectares, these areas offer a sanctuary of green amid urban development, hosting forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Our mission as a non-profit environmental charity is to protect these afforestation areas, educate the public about their ecological importance, and preserve their rich heritage.

🌿 Highlights of 2023:

1. The Green Classroom: We proudly launched "Exploring the Wildwoods of Saskatoon: The Ecology of a Planted Forest," a 100-page Activity Workbook, recognized with an Education for Sustainable Development Award. Translated into French, it enriches environmental education in Francophone schools.

2. Publishing Excellence: Our article "Afforestation in Canada: Planting Trees as Part of Nation Building" was featured in The Gardener, exploring the historical roots of tree planting in the Prairie Provinces and the ongoing role in habitat restoration and carbon absorption.

3. Truth and Reconciliation: Taking steps towards reconciliation, we integrated Miyo-wāhkōhtowin stories into the Prairie Forest Guide App, aligning with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action 53.

4. Celebrating Heritage: We actively participated in Doors Open Saskatoon, Arbor Week, Historic Places Days, Jane's Walks and National Forest Week, offering tours, events, and celebrations, highlighting the legacies of figures associated with the afforestation areas.

5. Future Outlook: The pilot management plan for the Richard St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is near completion and expected to be approved by City Council in 2024. As part of Saskatoon's Green Network, a $34 million investment from the City and the Government of Canada's Natural Infrastructure Fund will enhance the afforestation areas.  Stay tuned to FriendsAreas.ca for further updates.

🌍 Join Us in Environmental Guardianship:

As we anticipate an even greener future for Saskatoon, we invite you to join us in preserving these green treasures. Engage in tours, webinars, educational events, and restoration initiatives. Connect with nature through the iNaturalist app, be a part of the Prairie Forest Guide, and contribute to the Miyo-wāhkōhtowin/Good Relations project.

In the spirit of the season, we express heartfelt gratitude for your support. Your contributions have propelled us to make a positive impact on Saskatoon's greenspaces. As we embrace the holidays, let's continue championing nature-based solutions for climate action and upholding Indigenous wisdom.

🌟 Happy Holidays and Warm Wishes for the New Year! 🌟

May your days be filled with joy, laughter, and cherished moments. Together, let's make 2024 another year of environmental triumphs. Thank you for being part of our community, dedicated to creating a sustainable and greener world.

🌲 Frozen Trails and Wagging Tails: Dog Sledding Delight at Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area 🐾

Get ready for a winter adventure in Saskatoon's hidden gem—Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. On January 13, 2024, join Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc., Battle River Kennel, and Eagle Ridge Sled Dog Kennel for an unforgettable afternoon.

🚀 Event Overview:

Should weather conditions permit, Between 1:30 and 4:30 PM, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of dog sledding, exploring the history rooted in First Nation and Metis heritage.

🔍 What to Expect:

• Introduction to Dog Sledding: Discover the art and history woven into the fabric of First Nation communities.
• Meet the Teams: Encounter the incredible dogs of Battle River Kennel and Eagle Ridge Sled Dog Kennel, hearing their captivating stories.
• Sled Dog Rides: Experience the thrill of a Winter Wonderland dog sled-drawn ride for approximately 10 minutes, guided by experienced drivers.
• Family-Friendly Dog Sled Rides: Enjoy a cozy 10-minute family journey through the winter wonderland on a dog-drawn sled.
• Learn the Secret: Uncover why Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is Saskatchewan's best-kept winter secret.

City Nature Challenge🌿✨ City Nature Challenge 2024: Ignite the Nature Enthusiast in You! 🌲✨

• Gear up for an exciting spring event in 2024—City Nature Challenge! Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. is calling on all youth groups, green groups, schools, and community organizations in Saskatoon and the surrounding area to participate in this thrilling biodiversity tracking initiative.

  🌍 Invitation to All Groups:

  From school communities to local environmental clubs, we invite everyone to join City Nature Challenge as we set out to track biodiversity across Saskatoon and area. The goal? To claim the title of the wildest city in Canada! This is your chance to get members or students outside and collect nature observations using the iNaturalist platform during the challenge.

  🏆 Recognition and Awards:

  We're not just tracking biodiversity; we're also recognizing the group or school community that submits the most observations and more!

  🎓 Education Toolkit:

  Check out the education toolkit for valuable tips and ideas about engaging your students or group members in outdoor learning and exploration of nature in schoolyards, parks, and nearby green spaces.

  📸 City Nature Challenge 2024: Unleash the Power of Nature!

  From April 26 to April 29, 2024, be part of CNC YXE 2024 and capture images of plants, animals, insects, and mushrooms using iNaturalist. Saskatoon is competing for the prestigious title of the most biodiverse city, and we need your enthusiastic participation!

  🌳 Two Stages of the Challenge:

  • April 26 – April 29, 2024: Snap pictures of wild plants and animals.
  • April 30 – May 5, 2024: Identify the discovered species.

  Results will be unveiled on Monday, May 6, 2024. Contribute to the identification process after the observation stage and help unveil the biodiversity in Saskatoon and the surrounding areas.