With boundless gratitude and enthusiasm, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas extend a colossal thank you to all participants, supporters, collaborators, and sponsors who made the City Nature Challenge 2024 a resounding success! In a remarkable display of community spirit and nature appreciation, Saskatoon embraced the call to become biodiversity ambassadors, igniting a passion for citizen science that reverberated throughout our city and beyond.

From April 26 to April 29, 2024, Saskatoon's neighborhoods, parks, and green spaces buzzed with activity as individuals of all ages and backgrounds united to document the astonishing array of flora and fauna thriving in our midst. Through the user-friendly iNaturalist app, residents unleashed the power of citizen science, contributing invaluable data to illuminate the heartbeat of Saskatoon's biodiversity.

We are deeply grateful to our sponsors—the Saskatoon Nature Society, SaskTel, and SaskPower—for their generous support, which empowered us to engage the public and champion the cause of conservation. Special recognition goes to Jerin, whose unwavering dedication exemplifies the transformative impact of individual action in safeguarding our natural heritage.

Thanks to all the organizers at the International Level there were California Academy of Sciences and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM) and nationwide across Canada was the Canadian Wildlife Federation, then locally in Saskatoon was Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

As we eagerly anticipate the results of this year's challenge, we invite everyone to mark their calendars for April 2025, when we will reconvene for another exhilarating exploration of Saskatoon's wild wonders. Together, we have demonstrated the power of collective action in nurturing a more sustainable, biodiverse future for generations to come.

Thank you for being the voice for nature, for embracing the call to action, and for making the City Nature Challenge 2024 an unforgettable celebration of Saskatoon's vibrant biodiversity. See you again next year!

In addition to the remarkable individual contributions, we are thrilled to highlight the active involvement of eight classrooms from four schools in Saskatoon. 200 students were immersed in the great outdoors, embarking on the Enchanted Forest Exploration: Discovering Wildlife and Wonders. This hands-on experience not only deepened their understanding of nature but also fostered a profound connection to the natural world, inspiring future stewards of the environment.

Furthermore, our community came together for four unforgettable events. These gatherings provided participants with the opportunity to unite, exchange stories, and delve into the wonders of the wilderness. Through shared experiences and meaningful conversations, we forged bonds that will endure beyond the confines of this challenge.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the educators, students, and event attendees whose enthusiasm and dedication enriched the City Nature Challenge 2024 experience. Together, we have cultivated a culture of curiosity, exploration, and conservation that will continue to thrive in Saskatoon for years to come. Thank you for your invaluable contributions to our shared journey of discovery and preservation.

If you are interested in collaborating and co-hosting in April 2025, we would love to hear from you! Also if you wish to host a City Nature Challenge in your city next year, please also reach out.

A YouTube video for you:
Saskatoon City Nature Challenge 2024 results!

Springtime heralds the awakening of nature's vibrant symphony, inviting us to immerse ourselves in its splendor. As April draws to a close, an exciting opportunity unfolds: the City Nature Challenge. From April 30 to May 5, 2024, enthusiasts across Saskatoon are still invited to participate in this thrilling event, celebrating biodiversity and fostering a deeper connection to our natural world.

Capturing Moments, Preserving Nature

Did you find yourself captivated by the delicate beauty of the Prairie Pasqueflower, the elusive charm of the Gray Partridge, or the playful antics of the Franklin's Ground Squirrel? If so, your camera lens has become a portal to preserving these fleeting moments of biodiversity. Between April 26 to April 29, 2024, if you've captured images of these natural treasures, seize the opportunity to share them with the world. By uploading your snapshots to iNaturalist during April 30 to May 5, you contribute to a collective tapestry of biodiversity documentation.

Unveiling Nature's Mysteries

Identification phase April 30 – May 5, 2024

with results announced on May 6, 2024

Beyond capturing images, the City Nature Challenge extends an invitation to unravel nature's mysteries through the identification process. As you immerse yourself in the treasure trove of uploaded photographs, embrace the role of a detective, unlocking the secrets of the natural world. From distinguishing between plants and animals to uncovering species identities, every contribution plays a vital part in expanding our understanding of biodiversity.

Empowering Through Participation

Participating in the identification process is not only an opportunity to contribute but also a journey of self-discovery. Delve into the fascinating world of flora and fauna, guided by iNaturalist's intuitive suggestions and the invaluable insights shared in the identification hints and tips video. Together, we empower ourselves to become stewards of nature, nurturing a sense of responsibility towards preserving our planet's ecological richness.

Join the Movement

As we embark on this exhilarating journey, let us embrace the spirit of the City Nature Challenge and kindle a passion for conservation within our hearts. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, your contribution matters. Together, let's weave a narrative of biodiversity, celebrating the intricate tapestry of life that surrounds us.

The City Nature Challenge awaits your participation. From April 30 to May 5, 2024, let's unite in our shared love for nature, capturing its beauty and unraveling its mysteries one snapshot at a time. Embrace the call of the wild, and let your connection with nature flourish in the embrace of community and discovery.

Are You Ready to Take the Challenge?

Mark your calendars, gather your photographs, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature. Join the City Nature Challenge and become a champion for biodiversity preservation. Together, let's make a difference, one observation at a time.

Let's Connect!

Visit iNaturalist on your compuier to upload your observations and dive into the exciting world of biodiversity documentation. Share your experiences, discoveries, and passion for nature using #CityNatureChallenge. Together, let's inspire a global movement towards a more harmonious relationship with our natural environment.

Snapshots of Diversity: City Nature Challenge Invites You!

A huge thank you to the classrooms who came out yesterday to Saskatoon's forests to learn about nature, and their teachers! What an amazing day. Thanks for the people who came out in the evening to connect with Saskatoon's forest!

🌿 Day 2 of the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon and Area 2024 is here, and the excitement is soaring as high as the Western Meadowlarks in the sky! 🦋 Today, keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant flutter of butterflies, the melodic chirping of warblers and sparrows, and the sleek presence of magpies and blackbirds. But that's not all—get ready to be amazed by the intricate world of nature with sightings of running crab spiders, cutworm flies, and even really tiny true velvet mites! 🕷️🦋🌼 Isn't this assortment of wildlife simply exhilarating? 🌟 What will YOU discover today? Share your sightings and join the adventure! Let's celebrate the incredible biodiversity of Saskatoon and Area together! 🌳 #CityNatureChallenge #Saskatoon #NatureExploration #Biodiversity #CommunityEngagement 🌺

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!

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.

There is a compilation of helpful iNaturalist Canada How-To sheets here, and how to get involved with iNaturalist City Nature Challenge Saskatoon in French and English

City Nature Walk Song for families and children

What is it? When and Where did you see What? a YouTube Friends Afforestation iNaturalist training playlist

CWF Webinar #1: Observing with iNaturalist in urban spaces: webinar one in the City Nature Challenge series.

CWF Webinar # 2: Observing with iNaturalist around wetland habitat: webinar two in the City Nature Challenge series.

CWF Webinar #3: Observing with iNaturalist in forest settings: webinar three in the City Nature Challenge series.

City Nature Challenge 2024 iNaturalist Training

On iSSUU These are amazing resources to improve your skills, get familiar with iNaturalist as a beginner, and find wonderful ways of connecting and observing nature in French and English

iNat How-to's PDF for download

CNC YXE FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

A Gratitude Letter to the Community Association thank to your collaboration to promote CNC YXE on socials.

To the residents of this vibrant neighborhood, we want to extend our heartfelt appreciation for the incredible work you do in nurturing this unique and established community and preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings. Caswell Hill truly stands out as a haven of greenery and connection to nature, thanks in large part to your dedication and efforts.

One of the jewels of our neighborhood is the unique Ashworth Holmes Park, with its expansive oval shape and accessible playground. It's a place where families gather for picnics, where children laugh and play, and where neighbors come together to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. From the local dog park to the Mayfair Bowling Club, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this historic park.

But what truly sets Caswell Hill apart is the abundant biodiversity that thrives here. As we stroll through the boulevards, yards, and alleys adorned with colorful flowers and greenery, we're reminded of the deep connection between our community and the natural world. It's inspiring to see residents transforming their lawns into pollinator gardens, attracting beneficial insects like bees and harmless parasitoid wasps that play vital roles in our ecosystem. What will you discover?

And let's not forget about the four-leaf clovers that grace this neighborhood's pollinator paradise yards, and clover lawns. Legends and folklore have long celebrated these rare finds, with tales of fairies and good luck swirling around them. Whether you believe in their mystical powers or not, there's no denying the joy of stumbling upon one of these elusive charms.

So, as we celebrate the beauty and biodiversity of Caswell Hill, we want to express our gratitude to the Community Association for their tireless efforts in preserving and enhancing our neighborhood. Thank you for creating a place where nature thrives, where families come together, and where the spirit of community shines bright.

What a great opportunity to explore this area of the city for biodiversity for the City Nature Challenge CNC YXE 2024!

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.

We came across an exciting update from Mary Krieger regarding Manitoba's involvement in the City Nature Challenge. Inspired by this, we're thrilled to share our own announcement. Join us in participating in the annual City Nature Challenge from April 26 to 29, a four-day event aimed at exploring nature and gathering data on local biodiversity. With the days getting longer and temperatures rising, wildlife behaviors are shifting, offering a unique opportunity to observe everything from Canada geese to Wood frogs and showcase the beauty of spring in our region.

For those in Saskatchewan, there are dedicated projects in Regina and Saskatoon. By joining a City Nature Challenge project near you, you'll connect with fellow participants. Each project provides a countdown timer and defines the survey area boundaries, which typically include nearby natural areas and city-owned green spaces. To learn more about Canada's involvement, visit https://cwf-fcf.org/en/explore/inaturalist/cnc/ or explore the global perspective at https://citynaturechallenge.org/

Saskatchewan boasts 16 cities and residents can still have the option of participating, from such places as Lloydminster, which spans the provincial border with Alberta. Notably, Flin Flon, despite straddling the Manitoba provincial border, is not included as a city of Saskatchewan- though residents can still be included in the nature challenge. The cities in Saskatchewan are Estevan, Humboldt, Lloydminster, Martensville, Meadow Lake, Melville, Moose Jaw, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Warman, and Weyburn. If you're not close to Saskatoon or Regina, don't worry—join the City Nature Challenge 2024: Global Project. This project welcomes observers from anywhere on Earth who wish to contribute during the specified four days April 26 to 29.

Celebrating Community Collaboration: Rosewood's Commitment to Nature Conservation

In the heart of Southeast Saskatoon lies a vibrant community pulsating with life and brimming with natural wonders—the Rosewood Community. Nestled within its embrace are 65 acres of wetlands, green spaces, and natural trails, forming a haven for both residents and wildlife alike. Namely these areas are Adams, Bitz, Mackay, Struthers, Swick, Glen Penner, and Secondary Core Parks!

One of the key players in preserving this natural beauty is the Rosewood Community Association, whose unwavering dedication to environmental conservation has been nothing short of remarkable. Their recent collaboration with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas for the City Nature Challenge from April 26 to 29 stands as a testament to their commitment to protecting and celebrating nature.

The Rosewood community boasts an impressive array of natural assets, including the Rosewood Pocket Park—a 1.64-acre oasis of tranquility set to bloom into life this spring. Residents will soon find themselves immersed in the sights and sounds of nature as they explore its lush trails and serene conservation areas.

But the beauty of Rosewood extends beyond its borders, as it is located in Southeast Saskatoon and bordered by the breathtaking Hyde Park naturalized area. Spanning 65 acres, this award-winning wetlands design is a testament to the city's and community's dedication to preserving native vegetation and promoting biodiversity.

In the words of the City of Saskatoon, Rosewood has been meticulously designed to maintain its natural conservation areas, ensuring that green corridors connect residents to the breathtaking landscapes that surround them. This holistic approach to community planning not only fosters a deeper connection with nature but also promotes the health and well-being of its residents.

At its core, the goal of Rosewood is simple yet profound—to conserve and integrate a large wetland complex, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. Whether it's a leisurely stroll along the wetland banks or a moment of quiet reflection amidst the greenery, Rosewood offers a sanctuary where residents can reconnect with the beauty of the earth.

As we celebrate the collaborative spirit of the Rosewood Community Association and its partnership with the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, we are reminded of the profound impact that community stewardship can have on our environment. Together, we can continue to preserve and protect the natural treasures that enrich our lives and sustain our planet for generations to come.

It is here in Rosewood that residents are invited to explore their neighborhoods, parks, bus stops, school yards, sidewalks, yards, and green spaces, capturing photos and observations of plants, animals, insects, fungi, and signs of life. In addition to exploring close to home, everyone is cordially invited to join any of the four free planned events in the southwest area of Saskatoon at the two afforestation areas, hosted by the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas.

Wild About Saskatoon: A Heartfelt Tribute to Nature Advocacy

Amidst Saskatoon's vibrant urban tapestry lies a sanctuary of natural wonders awaiting discovery. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of Wild About Saskatoon, the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon 2024 (CNC YXE 2024) flourishes into a celebration of biodiversity and community engagement. Wild About Saskatoon, with its unwavering commitment to nature advocacy, has played an instrumental role in fostering a deeper appreciation for Saskatoon's natural treasures.

With joy and gratitude, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Wild About Saskatoon for their invaluable collaboration and support of the City Nature Challenge Saskatoon 2024 (CNC YXE 2024). As champions of NatureCity conversations, Wild About Saskatoon shines a spotlight on Saskatoon's natural hotspots, encouraging residents to connect with and protect the rich biodiversity that surrounds them.

Through their advocacy efforts and community engagement initiatives, Wild About Saskatoon has sparked real action to protect nature in Saskatoon and beyond. Their tireless dedication to environmental conservation has been a beacon of hope for those who cherish the beauty of our natural world.

As we express our gratitude to Wild About Saskatoon, let us also recognize the significant impact of their support for the City Nature Challenge. Their collaboration has not only enriched the CNC YXE 2024 experience but has also inspired individuals to become stewards of the environment, fostering a culture of conservation and environmental responsibility.

To learn more about Wild About Saskatoon and their impactful work in advocating for nature conservation, please visit their website at wildaboutsaskatoon.org. Together, let us continue to celebrate and protect Saskatoon's natural treasures for generations to come.

CNC YXE 2024 hosted by Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, with the wonderful collaboration from Wild About Saskatoon.

References:

"Wild About Saskatoon - Real Action Needed to Protect Nature in Sask." The Star Phoenix. Accessed March 6, 2024. Link.

"Wild About Saskatoon - Global News." Global News. Accessed March 6, 2024. Link.

"Saskatoon Garden Club Focused on Urban Biodiversity Hits 101 Members." CTV News Saskatoon. Accessed March 6, 2024. Link.

"Wild About Saskatoon - CJWW Radio." CJWW Radio. Accessed March 6, 2024. Link.

"Saskatoon Freeway - Habitat Evaluation." Saskatoon Freeway. Accessed March 6, 2024. Link.