50th Anniversary World Environment Day 2022 Commemorative Tree Planting

Support the non profit groupThe Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas IncJoin the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, a non-profit environmental charity dedicated to protecting and enhancing the Richard St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park in Saskatoon. Our mission is to safeguard these vital green spaces while educating the public about their ecological significance and fostering a deep connection to nature.Explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the afforestation areas by participating in our guided tours, webinars, and educational events. Learn about the rich biodiversity of these sites and discover the benefits of spending time in nature for your health and well-being.Through our initiatives, we advocate for environmental stewardship and take action to protect these areas from illegal dumping and other threats. Join us in our community clean-ups and restoration projects to make a tangible difference in preserving these treasured landscapes.At the heart of our organization is the belief that by reconnecting with nature, we can improve both individual health and the health of our planet. Join us in our mission to protect and cherish the Saskatoon afforestation areas for generations to come. Together, we can make a positive impact on our environment and create a more sustainable future.The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.is a not – for – profit incorporation registered with theInformation Services Canada (ISC) Saskatchewan, under entity number 102084283.TheFriends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area's goalsare to increase the safety and preservation of the afforestation areas as outlinedhere.As incorporated entities with an unique identity, Friends are governed by board members; and have customized organizational by-laws and letters patent.  Friends work locally with the City of Saskatoon park superintendent, MVA guidance, and other park liaisons as designated by the park superintendent. In Ontario, there are many, many Friends of the Park organizations, working together collaboratively to achieve mutually beneficial objectives.

Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc.

Reimagine.  Recreate.  Restore.  Celebrating Conservation

University of Saskatchewan

You are cordially invited to special tree planting ceremony by the University of Saskatchewan collaborating with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas on World Environment Day (W.E.D.), June 5, 2022 The tree planting ceremony will take place near the Diefenbaker Centre at the University of Saskatchewan. 101 Diefenbaker PlThis ceremony echoes a tree planting ceremony 40 years ago to the day of the last tree planted by the Richard St. Barbe Baker in union with the University of Saskatchewan on World Environment Day June 5, 1982 near the Diefenbaker Centre. This collaboration between the U of S and Richard St. Barbe Baker on his visit here from New Zealand, honoured him as a former graduate (1913), and recipient of an honorary doctorate in 1971. This tree was the last tree this extraordinary champion of trees and forests planted as he died in Saskatoon four days later. In 2014, the Meewasin Valley Authority placed a marker on the MVA trail near the tree he planted. (photo attached) As you may know, Baker’s extensive archives were donated to the U of S and are the fourth most requested repository.At this ceremony dignitaries in Saskatoon will be in attendance for this ceremonial tree planting on the University of Saskatchewan campus in honour of Richard St. Barbe Baker and the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day on June 5, 2022. This occasion would again raise awareness of the environment and the importance of tree planting as part of addressing climate change. St. Barbe Baker is often spoken of as a visionary ahead of his time, having raised the issue of deforestation and climate change in 1922, and then campaigning for the rest of his life for forest protection and large scale tree planting. It was for this life-long pursuit that he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the U of S.Baker has other connections to Saskatoon; he was one of the first 100 students at the U of S, and initiated former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker there. A large afforestation area (132 ha) in Saskatoon was named after Baker by Saskatoon City Council in 1979. The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas is a non-profit community organization that works with the City and Meewasin to protect and enhance this area. Our goal is to have a ceremonial tree planting event that marks W.E.D and honours Baker’s legacy, in that 2022 is also the centenary of the International Tree Foundation (ITF) started by St. Barbe Baker in Kenya, known then as the Men of the Trees. The ITF is also planning celebrations that we can link with and we would aim to have the media cover the event. We include a few tributes to Richard St Barbe Baker, including one by former president, J.W.T. Spinks.Thank you for your consideration in attending this public event and letting others know of the commemoration. It is truly appreciated.Robert White BSA, MES (Env. St.) Board Member Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, who personally knew Richard St. Barbe Baker was the Recipient of the first Men of the Trees Prize at the University of Saskatchewan. Robert will be the Master of CeremoniesWe are honoured that an indigenous prayer by elder Barry Opekekow will bring blessings to this ceremony.Councillor David Kirton will bring greetings on behalf of the City of SaskatoonParks Department from the City of Saskatoon will also say a few words in honour of World Environment day and these anniversary celebrations.Andrea Lafond CEO of Meewasin will speak during the World Environment Day ceremonies. The Meewasin is notably recognized world-wide for its leadership in conserving the natural resources of the 6,700 hectares of the Meewasin Valley. Author and Environmentalist Candace Savage from Wild About Saskatoon has written more than two dozen books on nature and cultural history will also bring greetings and speak for the environment.Elizabeth Bekolay teacher, biologist, environmental author and founder of One School One Farm Sheltberbelt Project has a long history of championing the environment.Dr. Henrike Rees representing Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE) and the PaRx program which just came to Saskatchewan will introduce these two environmental programs for health and the environment.Barbara Biddle Montgomery Place President Community Association will also bring greetings as their community association have been the guardians of the two Saskatoon afforestation areas celebrating their 50th anniversary planted to trees in 1972. Gift Marufu, Dip. (For.); B.Sc. (Hort.); M.Sc. (Soil/Plant);AAg University of Saskatchewan Grounds Manager will say a few words about the excellent composting environmental project ongoing on campus, and conduct a campus tree tour.Scouts Canada and troops will be present at this auspicious occasion. "<a href="https://www.scouts.ca/programs/canadian-path/about/environmental-stewardship.html" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">The environment is central to Scouting</a> and is a key element in the development of engaged citizens. Through Scouting, we never miss out on the opportunity to experience and build a relationship with nature. Environmental exploration has played a prominent role in the Scout Movement since it was founded."Dutch Growers has collaborated with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas to help make this occasion a success. Thank you enormously to the University of Saskatchewan and their assistance in making this event possible.With appreciations for support from the City of Saskatoon in helping with support towards this event.PARKINGthere is free parking at meters at the University of Saskatchewan on Sundays in summerthere are 17 stalls in parking lot per se and 8 more around traffic circle in the case of those that will be in useThere is other free parkingGO TO <a href="https://parking.usask.ca/options/daily.php#NightandWeekendParking" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://parking.usask.ca/options/daily.php#NightandWeekendParking</a>Weekend Parking OptionsNo Payment or permit required in the following areas:Weekends Fri 4pm-Mon 5am forLots F, H, HA, K, O, Q, S, T, V, Y, and Z<a href="https://parking.usask.ca/documents/night-parking-map.pdf" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Night and Weekend Parking Map</a><a href="https://parking.usask.ca/documents/night-parking-map.pdf" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer"> [pdf]</a><a href="https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/friends-of-the-saskatoon-afforestation-areas-inc/events/50th-anniversary-world-environment-day-2022-commemorative-tree-planting/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Optional: Donation through Canada Helps optional to support conservation work at the afforestation areas</a>Any questions text 306 380 5368

"The simple act of planting a tree, which is in itself a practical deed, is also the symbol of a far reaching ideal, which is creative in the realm of the Spirit, and in turn reacts upon society, encouraging all to work for the future well being of humanity rather than for immediate gain. Richard St. Barbe Baker.Tributes:J.W.T. Spinks, Past President of the University of Saskatchewan, spoke about Richard St. Barbe Baker at his funeral."My first close contact with St. Barbe Baker came... when the University bestowed on him the Honorary Degree of LL.D. St. Barbe Baker was proud of his long connection with the University of Saskatchewan going back over seventy years, and renewed from time to time particularly over the last dozen years.My last contact with St. Barbe Baker was last Saturday when Mary and I were privileged to attend a tree planting ceremony on the river bank, just west of the Diefenbaker Centre, a most beautiful spot with a most beautiful view. It was most moving to see and hear St. Barbe Baker talking to the children present at the tree planting, taking their hands in his hands, and repeating with them the motto:‘From our heartsWith our HandsFor the EarthAll the World Together.’The original thoughts and life-long actions of St. Barbe Baker and his dedication to the trees of the world will have made broader and broader impact on the peoples of the world. What greater memorial could the Man of the Trees wish or ask for?” London Times obituary "Baker deserves to be remembered as one of the very first men to realise that we were destroying the natural resources of the world faster than was prudent; and that trees were not only providers of timber, pulp and fuel, but were also manufacturers of life-giving oxygen from the waste products of man, and his machines, and ...even more importantly, inducers of rain when assed in sufficient numbers."Jane Goodall, Founder Jane Goodall Institute and Roots &amp; Shoots“Why have we not heard of this extraordinary Man of the Trees, Richard St Barbe Baker? He was without doubt, one of the greatest advocates for the protection and restoration of forests ever. I am amazed by his life and accomplishments. He is one of my heroes.”HRH The Prince of WalesSt Barbe, as his friends called him, was a true pioneer. Long before the science of climate change was understood, he had warned of the impact of forest loss on climate. He raised the alarm and prescribed a solution....Behind St Barbe Baker’s prescience was his deep spiritual conviction about the unity of life. He had listened intently to the Indigenous people with whom he worked and seen a similar sensibility in the then new sciences of ecology and silviculture.”

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