SASKATOON--Users of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation area, located in Saskatoon’s west end, is the root of many people’s happiness. Those that use the wilderness space for the dog park, bike paths or walking trails say they felt tree-mendous happiness when learning enhancements would be coming to this area in the fall of 2024.
The City of Saskatoon made a media release on Sept. 24 stating they were branching out in the forest of possibilities at this nature’s playground and outdoor recreation venue. Saskatoon continues to commit to green spaces and natural areas.
The city’s release stated, “The Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation area will be under construction as several enhancements are being made. Approximately 1800 new trees and shrubs will be put in five planting areas. Upgrades are being made to existing dirt path to a three-meter-wide crusher dust trail. A new waste bun and new swing gate will also be part of the work.
In a media release City of Saskatoon stated, “Construction of site enhancements are expected to begin the week of September 23 and last until November 2024. During this period, please note that:
-The trail being improved will be closed during this time. Alternative routes will be available for residents to use during construction; see construction signage on site.
-Parking will remain available at the southwest off-leash recreation area parking lot and southeast parking lots.
-We kindly ask residents to refrain from using the parking lot at the northeast entrance of RSBBAA, since this lot is owned by TransGas and must remain available for their infrastructure service vehicles.
-For the safety of you and your pets, please keep your dogs on-leash when outside the designated Â鶹´«Ã½AVwest Off-Leash Recreation Area.
For more information, please visit . This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s . You can find the plans and other details on the city’s website.
In 2024, with support from the Natural Infrastructure Fund, the city is installing site enhancements in the eastern portion of RSBBAA. These enhancements are intended to support the conservation of the unique ecological and cultural features of RSBBAA, while keeping the site accessible for residents to enjoy, the city added.
Saskatoon is one of six major cities to receive funding of up to $20 million from Natural Infrastructure Fund – Large Project Stream to support the implementation of the City’s Green Network Project.
This funding provides a significant opportunity to advance the City's Green Infrastructure Strategy implementation plan, , and its vision for an interconnected green network in Saskatoon that will achieve multiple benefits such as:
-improved access to nature for the community
-green space enhancements and habitat restoration
-climate mitigation and adaptation
-equity and reconciliation
Note: The blue dot indicates the adventure entry point. The yellow dots are other possible entry points, both yellow dots have small parking areas.
The Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is unique place in Saskatoon that allows you to choose the level of your adventure based on where you enter, how long you spend there, and whether you venture off the trails. Outdoor enthusiasts, in any season, can enjoy all levels in this area together
After this reporter visited the area for some photos on the afternoon of Sept. 25, it was easy to see why people log in to this outdoor space as not to sound sappy, but it made us happy and I woodn’t mind getting lost in this enchanting green nature space.
