EcoSask News, June 29, 2021

This Week’s Highlights 

Nature Conservancy of Canada – Saskatchewan is hosting a webinar at 6:30 pm, July 6, on the importance of dark skies as well as tips and tricks for stargazing and nighttime photography. 

Lone trees make it easier for birds and bees to navigate farmlands, providing shelter, food, and places to land. [The Conversation] 

Upcoming Events 

Saskatoon Nature Society has two upcoming field trips to look for orchids on July 1 and butterflies on July 3. 

Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas will be holding bio blitzes every Sunday at 2 pm from July 4-Sept. 26.

There will be a free online workshop on food forest design from 10:30 am-1:30 pm, July 6. 

Find out how time and weather influence Saskatchewan’s largest snake in a noon-hour webinar on July 8 with SK-PCAP. 

Local News 

The Water Security Agency has received a failing grade from the Provincial Auditor for failing to regulate wetland drainage. For further information, read the Citizens Environmental Alliance's newsletter.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada’s Asquith site is now open to the public and has a mowed trail with interpretive signs provided with the support of the Saskatoon Nature Society. 

Cindy Wright’s watercolours portraying the importance of bees in our society will be on display at Handmade House in Saskatoon from June 28-Aug. 21.

 

Light Pollution 

“Fireflies use their bioluminescence to flirt in the dark. . . . Under artificial light, males flash about half as often, while females rarely, if ever, flash back.” You can help by installing motion detectors, timers and shielding to ensure that light goes only where people need it, when they need it; keeping lights as dim as possible; and opting for monochrome red LEDs. [The Conversation] 

Office buildings that leave their lights on overnight pose a serious risk for migrating birds. A research team studied one building and estimated that turning off half the lights could reduce bird deaths by 11 times in the spring and 6 times in the fall. [Anthropocene] 

Do you wonder why some birds visit your backyard and not others? Many common species avoid noisy areas and even more will stay away when there is both noise and light pollution. [SciTech] 

Municipal Climate Action 

Miistakis Institute in Alberta has produced the following free, downloadable research reports to assist municipalities in addressing climate action: 

Roadside Management for Pollinator Habitat in Alberta 

Environmental Reserves and Environmental Reserve Easements 

Paying for Conservation: Municipal Powers to Generate Revenue for Conservation 

Did You Know? 

Wales plans to freeze road construction projects and focus on maintaining existing roads in a bid to reduce its carbon emissions. [Planetizen]

Project Noah is a site for photographers and naturalists. Share your photos, learn from the experts and take advantage of educational videos, lesson plans, and outdoor learning activities. [Project Noah]

Just for Fun 

How and what do you feed 2,700 animals on a daily basis? Take a look behind the scenes at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. [Smithsonian Magazine]

EcoFriendly Sask supports Saskatchewan environmental initiatives through an online publication, an events calendar, small grants, and the Nature Companion website/app. You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or subscribe by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, May 4, 2021

This Week’s Highlights 

Ann Coxworth will discuss small model nuclear reactors from 7-8:30 pm, May 11, online, as part of the Sustainability Speakers series. 

As part of a growing trend, major tech companies are “teaming with oil giants to use automation, AI, and big data services to enhance oil exploration, extraction, and production.” 

Upcoming Events 

There will be a noon-hour webinar on greater sage-grouse and grassland songbirds on May 11 as part of the Native Prairie Speaker Series. 

Nature Regina is hosting an online Get Outside Kids’ Club from 1:30-2:30 pm, May 12. 

Learn how you can create a nature refuge in your own backyard in Gardening with Native Plants, a digital NatureCity Conversation from 7-9 pm, May 12. 

The annual RCE Saskatchewan Education for Sustainable Development Recognition event will be held online from 9 am-noon, May 12. 

The Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan is holding a virtual annual general meeting at 2 pm, May 16. 

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips 

Saskatoon Young Naturalists 

May 26-July – Mary Houston Bluebird Trail 

July 14, 1 pm – Mid-week Butterflies 

Aug. 11, 1 pm – Mid-week Butterflies 

Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. 

Golden Eagles 

May 6, 8 am – Waterfowl at Porter Lake 

May 13, 8 am – Clavet Area Birding 

Retirees and partners who are interested in birds and the natural world are invited to participate. 

Other Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips 

May 8, 2:30-3:30 pm, Waterfowl Viewing on the River 

May 9, 7-8 am – MVA Trail Birding 

May 15, 1:30-4:30 pm – Birding Trip to Proctor Lake 

Field trips are currently for members only, so sign up now. Advance registration is required. 

Local News 

Humboldt Lake cannot support fish as it “has a phosphate concentration that is 6 to 10 times higher than what is considered to be a healthy lake” due to treated wastewater and agriculture and industry. 

La Ronge Library is now sharing seeds as well as books. 

Environmental Racism 

Urban inequality affects wildlife as well as people. “To Schell, the solution is to design cities that work for all people and animals. Coyotes may not be the most welcome neighbors, but Schell says they maintain balance in our ecosystems. Carving out green spaces for both humans and wildlife to enjoy can foster the biodiversity we need to draw down carbon, cool our cities, and keep our air and water clean.” 

Many racialized and low-income communities have borne the brunt of polluting industries and other environmental hazards. Federal Bill C-230 is an important first step in addressing who is affected the most by climate change and its impacts.

 

The Future of Coal 

Shutting down Germany’s lignite coal mines requires citizen engagement – both miners and climate activists. 

The steel industry, reliant on coal for centuries, is looking at alternatives. A University of Calgary professor believes “the expansion of metallurgical-coal mining in Alberta is an example of the province ‘chasing the next thing that’s going to die.’” 

Urban Biodiversity 

Dutch citizens are working hard to protect bees – and so far it’s working. Check out their bee hotels, bee-friendly roof-garden bus stops, and honey highway. 

An international roundtable shares ideas for increasing urban biodiversity – from mandating the using of native plants in public landscapes to a manual on conserving biodiversity in urban subdivisions, developing a shared vision among public and private stakeholders, and celebrating Green Capitals of Biodiversity. 

Check out EcoFriendly Sask’s Nature Companion, a free nature app for Canada’s four western provinces 

EcoFriendly Sask supports Saskatchewan environmental initiatives through an online publication, an events calendar, small grants, and the Nature Companion website/app. You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, June 16, 2020

 

Upcoming Events 

Ours to Save, Ours to Lose, June 18 (webinar) 

Join Dan Kraus, Nature Conservancy of Canada, as he discusses the plants and animals that are unique to Canada at 11:30 am (SK time), June 18. 

Summer Solstice, June 21 (Regina) 

You’re invited to gather on Wascana Hill to greet the sunrise and the beginning of summer at 4:45 am, June 21. 

Nature Sask AGM, June 22 (online) 

Nature Saskatchewan will be holding its annual general meeting online at 7 pm, June 22. 

Wildlife Research during a Global Quarantine, June 22 (webinar) 

Ryan Brook will discuss wildlife research during a global quarantine: tracking the rapid spread of invasive wild pigs during a noon-hour webinar on June 22. 

Group Excursion Leadership & Preparedness, June 23 (online) 

SaskOutdoors and Back40 Wilderness First Aid are hosting a webinar on group excursion leadership and preparedness from 7:30-8:30 pm, June 23. 

Women & the Energy Transition, June 23 (online) 

Pembina Institute is hosting a webinar panel discussion on the role of women in a changing energy economy from 11 am-12:15 pm (SK time), June 23. 

Sask River Basin AGM, June 24 (Saskatoon) 

The annual general meeting of Partners FOR the Saskatchewan River Basin will be held at 10 am, June 24. 

Carrot River Valley Watershed AGM, June 26 (Melfort) 

The Carrot River Valley Watershed Association is holding its annual general meeting at 1 pm, June 26, in Melfort. Email crwatershed@gmail.com by June 23 to register. 

Supporting Wild Bee Diversity, June 26 (webinar) 

Join SaskOrganics for a live webinar on supporting wild bee diversity on farms from 9:30-10:30 am, June 26. 

Zoo Training, June 29 (Saskatoon) 

The Saskatoon Zoo Society is looking for volunteer interpreters to help with their Wild Weekends programming. Find out more at the volunteer training session from 6-8 pm, June 29. 

Creating an Ecological Society, June 29 (webinar) 

This 2 ½ hour UK-based webinar on creating an ecological society will explore the relationship between social and ecological problems on June 29, 8-10:30 am (SK time). 

A full list of upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar 

Local News 

Explore Regina's green spaces with self-directed guides from Nature Regina 

Nature Saskatchewan is asking residents to post sightings of burrowing owls 

Prince Albert’s plastic bag ban has been put on hold until the end of the current state of emergency 

From Information to Action 

A Yukon First Nation plans to open a native plant nursery to support mine reclamation work 

Could cabbages, rapeseed, and sunflowers replace mining as a source of lithium, a key component of electronics and electric vehicles? 

Carbon-neutral coffee via wind power: “Sometimes long-distance transport is necessary for a balanced and sustainable supply chain, so sail cargoes have a role to play in that” 

We’re drowning in light: human beings, when faced with the availability of a cheaper and more efficient lighting technology, simply use more of it 

“Spending time with wild animals and plants, observing them, considering what they need to survive and thrive, exponentially expands our sense of family. . . . All of these plants and animals, these urban trees, sidewalk beetles, pearl-winged pigeons, are our neighbors” 

Miyawaki Forests – converting barren land into a thriving forest in a span of 3 years 

5 inventions illustrating the future of solar energy [10-minute video] 

Natural Wonders 

Jeremy, the love-lorn lefty snail 

Parenting helps shape bigger brains – in jays, crows, and ravens 

The Big Bat Year – 29 countries, 396 species 

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, May 26, 2020

Upcoming Events (online)
Let’s Talk About Water Virtual Film Festival, May 21-June 26
The Let's Talk About Water Film Festival combines water science with film to promote active discussion about water issues and solutions and aims to connect researchers with students and the general public. Films by both professionals and amateurs will be available online from May 21-June 26.

Regina Climate Hub, May 27
People interested in volunteering to be part of the brand-new Regina Climate Hub are invited to participate in an online meeting from 7:30-9 pm, May 27.

SK Low Carbon Stories, June 3
Margret Asmuss will present low carbon stories at the 7:30 am, June 3, online meeting of the Saskatchewan Energy Management Task Force.

Tools to Protect Nature, June 4
Nature Canada is offering a webinar from 12-1 pm (SK time), June 4, on Canada’s new Impact Assessment Act and the tools available to local and provincial groups to participate in federal reviews of proposed industrial developments.

A full list of upcoming events (online and in person) can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar 

Local News
You’re invited to sign a petition calling for a moratorium on logging which is slated to begin as early as September in the Nesslin Lake recreational area.

Baltimore orioles have been spotted out of their normal range in La Ronge.

Meewasin Valley Authority is making changes to the trails around the Children’s Discovery Museum and the Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan site. You can review the proposals on the Meewasin website and provide feedback through an online survey (deadline June 30, 2020).

From Information to Action
“It frustrates me when I see farmers ditching their fields to drain wet areas. Yes, we get to farm a few more acres, but at what cost? How much flooding occurs downstream? . . . How much taxpayer money is spent on flood prevention and repair? How much topsoil is washed away from that land? How many riparian areas are destroyed?”

A third of people admit to throwing away furniture that they could have sold or donated. Does the cheap furniture boom have a heavy environmental price?

The biggest hurdle to energy-efficient retrofits is the upfront capital costs. Municipal Property Assessment Clean Energy policies can address this issue but require adequate consumer protection, targeted financing, and administration support for smaller municipalities.

Clear guidance for keeping both wolves and livestock owners happy.

Will Scotland have the first domestic hydrogen gas network?

Shooting the Rapids: Long Crisis Scenarios shows 4 potential futures and the strategies that will be needed to thrive in each.

We need to reframe the debate between global and local to incorporate transformation, connection, and agency.

Good News & Natural Wonders
When pollen is scarce, bumblebees bite plants to force them to flower earlier than expected.

Solar-powered passenger canoes reduce reliance on diesel in the Amazon and are supported by a grant from the Honnold Foundation.

Internet of Elephants designs digital games and online experiences to tell real conservation stories based on real data.

Dave Manning roots for the underdog and has spent years studying turkey vultures. “By showing people the intricacies of their daily lives, he’s given people an appreciation for the species”.

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, May 19, 2020

Upcoming Events
Genereux Park/Baker Area Eco-Quest (ongoing) 
Join a virtual eco-quest of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and/or the George Genereux Urban Park.

Gardening @ USask, May 19 & 26 (online)
The University of Saskatchewan is offering a variety of online gardening workshops: Compost 101: Scraps to Soil – May 19, 7 pm; The Growing Buzz (bees) – May 26, 7 pm.

Rubbish Roundup, May 20-24 (Saskatoon) 
Join Saskatoon's Rubbish Roundup, May 20-24, organized by Wildernook Fresh Air Learning. For each bag of garbage collected and reported, EcoFriendly Sask will donate $10 to the charity of your choice (Saskatoon Search and Rescue, Saskatoon Crisis Nursery, or One School One Farm.

TimberNook Family Sessions, May 20-June 27 (Saskatoon) 
TimberNook Saskatoon is hosting self-guided outdoor family experiences in May/June. Week-day, evening, and Saturday time slots are available.

Covid-19 & Energy Transition, May 20 (online) 
Martin Boucher will focus on the recent COVID-19 pandemic and its implications on climate change and the energy transition from 12-1 pm, May 20.

First Aid for Day Trips, May 21 (webinar) 
SaskOutdoors and Back40 Wilderness First Aid Training are offering a mini first aid webinar on how to prepare for day trips from 7:30-8:30 pm, May 21.

Candace Savage’s Prairie Live, May 27 (online) 
Join Candace Savage online at Cranberry Flats from 12-1 pm, May 27, for the launch of the revised edition of Prairie: A Natural History of the Heart of North America.

Forum for Educators, May 29 (online) 
SaskOutdoors is hosting an online forum from 10-11 am, May 29, to discuss how to bring outdoor and environmental education into remote teaching.

May Day Bird Count, May 30 (Saskatoon) 
The Saskatoon Nature Society is inviting experienced birds who are healthy and not in quarantine to participate in the May Bird Count. Different sectors (or sub-sectors) will be assigned to each individual or family to follow Covid-safe self-isolation steps. Email your name, phone number, and email address to trips@saskatoonnature.org if you wish to participate. If you have questions, call Stan Shadick at 306.652.5975.

A full list of upcoming events (online and in person) can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar

Local News
EnviroCollective (Regina) has teamed up with Climate Reality Canada to form a climate hub. They’re looking for supporters and Climate Hub Captains.

From Information to Action
Cobalt is critical to the renewable energy transition. How can we minimize its social and environmental cost?

“We should be aiming to identify diseases in other animals as early as possible, when there’s still a chance of preventing them from spreading to humans.”

To ensure healthy bird populations, cities need to increase their insect populations by planting trees and incorporating good management practices in their green spaces.

Tips for helping trees and beavers to coexist side by side.

Energy
White River First Nation plans to construct the largest solar farm in the Yukon as well as a biomass plant and district heating system.

How can we promote a green recovery with renewables emerging stronger than ever?

Books
The Bird Way: A New Look at How Birds Talk, Work, Play, Parent, and Think by Jennifer Ackerman reveals that birds are “capable of nuanced, highly intelligent behavior that we once believed to be uniquely human.”

Entangled Life: How Fungi Make our Worlds, Change our Minds and Shape our Futures by Martin Sheldrake opens up “a vast unseen world that surrounds each one of us.”

Tearfund’s The World Rebooted – how can you, your church, and your network play a part in reshaping society?

Read an extract from Diary of a Young Naturalist by Dara McAnulty, a 16-year-old nature writer, who describes bats as origami taking flight.

Even successful scientists struggle – 14 books to motivate teens to study science.

Natural Wonders
“Ants use their numbers to overcome navigational challenges that are too large and disorienting to be tackled by any single individual.”

“Older barn owl chicks will share food with younger ones.”

The tenacity of trees: surviving – and thriving – in difficult circumstances.

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, September 24, 2019

Upcoming Events
Singing for a Better World, Sept. 24 (Saskatoon)
There will be a choir practice at 7 pm, Sept. 24.

Recycling Workshop, Sept. 25 (Lloydminster)
Find out what can and can’t be recycled at a workshop in Lloydminster from 10-11:30 am, Sept. 25.

Restoring Arctic/Alpine Ecosystems, Sept. 25 (Saskatoon)
Katherine Stewart, U of S, will discuss Letting Nature Lead the Way: Restoring Arctic and Alpine Ecosystems at 7 pm, Sept. 25.

Climate Strike Prince Albert, Sept. 27 (Prince Albert)
Prince Albert will be joining the global climate strike at noon, Sept. 27.

Astronomy Night Open House, Sept. 28 (Saskatoon)
The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada – Saskatoon Centre is hosting an open house from 7:30-11 pm, Sept. 28.

Fall Walk & Picnic, Sept. 29 (Moose Jaw)
Join the Moose Jaw Nature Society for a fall walk and picnic on Sept. 29.

Science in the Park, Sept. 30 (Regina)
Science in the Park will be at Crosbie Park from 6-8 pm, Sept. 30.

Wanted - Research Participants, Sept. 30 (Saskatoon)
Participants are needed for a university research project into attitudes towards options for reduction of GHG emissions. An information meeting will be held from 7-8:30 pm, Sept. 30.

Keep Bees Buzzing, Oct. 1 (Regina)
Find out what to plant in your garden to provide native bees with food and nesting material at 6:30 pm, Oct. 1.

Energy Management Opportunities, Oct. 2 (Saskatoon)
Yi Liu will discuss energy management opportunities and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities at the Oct. 2 breakfast meeting of the SK Energy Management Task Force.

Looking Ahead
Passive House Trades Course, Oct. 22-24 (Saskatoon)
Passive House Canada is offering a 3-day course teaching the skills and knowledge required for the Certified Passive House Tradesperson - Building Envelope Specialization exam from Oct. 22-24 in Saskatoon.

Meewasin 40th Anniversary Gala, Oct. 22 (Saskatoon)
Meewasin Valley Authority is hosting a fundraising 40th anniversary gala at the Radisson Hotel in Saskatoon from 5:30-8:30 pm, Oct. 22.

Rob Dumont Energy Management Awards Dinner, Oct. 23 (Saskatoon)
The 2019 Rob Dumont Energy Management Awards Dinner will be held from 5-9 pm, Oct. 23.

Agricultural Drainage & the Environment, Nov. 6 (Regina)
The Nov. 6 Agricultural Drainage & the Environment conference will cover a wide range of topics including water quality, habitat loss, hydrology, and carbon losses presented by well-known researchers and experts.

Passive House Design & Construction, Nov. 7-10 (Saskatoon)
Passive House Canada is offering a 4-day course in passive house design and construction in Saskatoon from Nov. 7-10.

Saskatoon Nature Society
Golden Eagles
Sept. 26, 8:30 am – Beland Acreage
Oct. 3, 8:30 am – Ponds & Prairie
Oct. 10, 9 am – Whooping Cranes
Retirees and partners who are interested in birds and the natural world are invited to participate.

A full list of upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar

In the News
Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. is now incorporated and seeking new members to help protect the Richard St. Barbe Baker and George Genereux Afforestation Areas.

The nitrogen crisis: “It’s fertilizer, not diesel fuel, that’s the largest emissions source on many farms.”

Saskatoon airport receives level one sustainability accreditation. Regina airport received level one accreditation in 2018.

“Before mass electrification of cars and decarbonizing the grid, Americans will need to reckon with two big facts: The population is growing and people are driving more.”

Raincoast Conservation Foundation has published Reform Proposals for Managing Human-Wildlife Conflict in British Columbia, many of which are also relevant in Saskatchewan. “British Columbia should take the lead to proactively prevent the unnecessary killing of wildlife by adopting a more restrained approach to the use of lethal force.”

Fairphone 3 – longer lasting, responsible material sourcing, less waste, easier repairs.

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, August 13, 2019

Upcoming Events
Enviro Collective, Aug. 13 (Regina) 
Enviro Collective Regina is meeting at 7 pm, Aug. 13.

Learn to Hike, Aug. 14 (Saskatoon)
Outter Limits is hosting a learn to hike info night from 7-8:30 pm, Aug. 14. It’s free but you need to register in advance.

From Seed to Seed, Aug. 16 (Regina) 
The film From Seed to Seed about a farming family blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge science will be shown at 7 pm, Aug. 16, as part of the Regina International Film Festival.

Go Science, Aug. 16 (Lipton)
Join the Saskatchewan Science Centre in Lipton for a nature/science program for kids from 1-4 pm, Aug. 16.

Help our Bees, Aug. 18 (Moose Jaw) 
Join the Moose Jaw Nature Society to learn about bees and make your own bee bath from 4-6 pm, Aug. 18.

Nature Activity, Aug. 20 (Springside) 
Springside Public Library is hosting a special guest from the Yellowhead Flyway Birding Trail Association for a nature activity from 1:30-2:30 pm, Aug. 20.

Singing for a Better World, Aug. 20 (Saskatoon) 
Learn some songs about protecting the earth and building peace and justice from 7-9 pm, Aug. 20.

AB Mammal Monitoring, Aug. 20 (webinar) 
Find out about wildlife monitoring in Alberta in a noon-hour webinar on Aug. 20 presented by PCAP-SK.

Intro to Permaculture, Aug. 21 (Regina) 
Learn about the design principles of permaculture from 7-8:30 pm, Aug. 21, at the Connaught Branch Library.

Hot Composting, Aug. 21 (Saskatoon)
Saskatoon Compost Coaches are offering a hot composting workshop on Aug. 21 from 5:30-7 pm.

Nature Activity, Aug. 22 (Springside)
Springside Public Library is hosting a guest from the Yellowhead Flyway Birding Trail Association from 1:30-2:30 pm, Aug. 22.

Hug a Tree & Survive, Aug. 22 (Prince Albert)
Join Prince Albert North Search and Rescue for a program teaching lost kids how to survive in the woods at 7 pm, Aug. 22.

Family Paddle, Aug. 23 (Regina) 
SaskOutdoors is hosting a learn to paddle with kids event from 1-3 pm, Aug. 23. Canoe rental will be provided.

Looking Ahead
Tiny House Workshop, Sept. 20-22 (Regina) 
Learn how to build your own tiny house from Sept. 20-22 in Regina.

Permaculture Design Course, Oct.-Apr. (Regina) 
Edible Landscapes is offering a permaculture design certificate course over 6 weekends from October to April in Regina. Register in advance and save money.

A full list of upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar 

In the News
Fill out a short survey to let Saskatoon's Meewasin Valley Authority know where you would like to see an extension of the trail between the Circle Drive North Bridge and the Chief Mistawasis Bridge. 

Banding ruby-throated hummingbirds takes “a delicate touch, infinite patience and steadfast devotion.” Ron Jensen’s “data-gathering is important work, here in the far reaches of the Ruby-throated hummingbirds’ breeding range, where sightings are less common than in places such as Illinois.”

Saskatchewan has a high risk of water shortages. The study reports the main causes as being agricultural (especially raising livestock), wetland drainage, mining, and oil and gas extraction. Residential and industrial water usage is often inefficient, and climate change could bring prolonged hot or dry spells.

“Coexistence implies simply ‘tolerating the other’ whomever or whatever that is. May I suggest that it is time to co-flourish? Time to find solutions and table policy that genuinely embraces and considers the life and happiness of all parties. Every person, creature, habitat and resource holds a necessary vital part in this world. Some may well be way beyond our present understanding.”

San Francisco international airport says “each airport guest creates a half pound of trash. In an effort to reduce the waste, the airport is limiting single-use food accessories such as napkins, coffee cups and chopsticks. In addition to plastic, SFO is banning items with ‘unsubstantiated claims’ about their sustainability.”

Sand “is an essential component of modern life as we know it, yet, strangely enough, we are starting to run out.”

Using electricity at different times of day (load flexibility) “is a win-win-win. It saves money on utilities, it reduces consumer energy bills, and it helps clean up the grid.”

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, July 16, 2019

Upcoming Events
Change the Debate on CBC, July 17 (Regina, Saskatoon) 
Regina and Saskatoon are joining a nation-wide rally to urge the CBC to host a debate on climate issues during the upcoming federal election. Meet in front of the CBC studio at 6 pm, July 17, in both Regina and Saskatoon.

YXE Talks Trash, July 23 (Saskatoon) 
City of Saskatoon is inviting businesses and organizations to share their ideas on recycling and organics policies and programs from 7 am-8 pm, July 23.

Farmland Drainage, July 24 (Saskatoon) 
Jeff Olson will speak on Farmland Drainage: A Looming Environmental Crisis at 7 pm, July 24, as part of the National Farmers Union Region 6 convention. The public is welcome.

Busy Bees, Please!, July 24 (Gravelbourg) 
Kids are invited to build a bee bath from 3-4 pm, July 24, at Gravelbourg Public Library.

Go Science Program, July 25 (Springside) 
Join the Saskatchewan Science Centre in Springside for a nature/science program for kids from 1-4 pm, July 25.

Snakes, July 26 (Cypress Hills) 
Join bull snake researcher, Noah Johnson, for a presentation on Saskatchewan snakes at 7:30 pm, July 26, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

Looking Ahead
Putting Beavers to Work, Oct. 23 & 24 (Calgary) 
A two-day seminar in Calgary on Oct. 23 & 24 will look at beavers’ role in watershed resiliency and restoration through both talks and a coexistence tools demonstration.

Agricultural Drainage & the Environment, Nov. 6 (Regina) 
The Citizens Environmental Alliance and its partners are hosting a one-day conference on agricultural drainage and the environment on Nov. 6 in Regina. Topics include carbon and habitat loss, enforcement and compliance, and water quality. For more information, contact Jeff Olson at cea.sask.2018@gmail.com

A full list of upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar 

In the News
Do you live in the Saskatoon neighbourhoods of Aspen Ridge, Silverspring, or Evergreen? If so, help the City of Saskatoon in its land use planning by completing a survey on the value of the Northeast Swale.

“People can’t see noise, but if you were to kind of visualize it, it’s like if everybody was throwing candy wrappers out here as they were driving by with those modified mufflers.”

What if we could heat our home by burning our trash?

“We organised a conference for 570 people without using plastic. Here’s how it went.”

Pop-up parks can increase biodiversity, especially if you include organic materials and lots of plants.

San Francisco's coyote families: a wildlife soap opera.

San Francisco residents have launched a campaign to install 1000 drinking fountains.

An online course explores the captivating behaviour and creative genius of crows.

The UK’s Food Forest Project has been established to help communities to plant food forests – growing food for the local community and providing food and habitats for wildlife.

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, June 11, 2019

Upcoming Events
Live Animal Show, June 15 (Saskatoon) 
Lisa Wrangler will bring some of her reptiles to Wild Birds Unlimited at 4 pm, June 15.

Repair Café, June 15 (Prince Albert) 
There will be a Repair Café in Prince Albert from 1-4 pm, June 15.

Native Prairie Appreciation Week, June 16-22 (Saskatchewan) 
Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan has organized a variety of activities online and in Moose Jaw, Regina, and Swift Current to celebrate Native Prairie Appreciation Week.

EnviroCollective, June 17 (Regina) 
Regina EnviroCollective is meeting from 7-9 pm, June 17.

Intro to Permaculture, June 19 (Regina) 
Learn about the design principles of permaculture from 7-8:30 pm, June 19, at the Prince of Wales Branch Library.

Bokashi & Vermicomposting, June 19 (Saskatoon) 
Join Saskatoon Compost Coaches for a workshop on bokashi and vermicomposting from 5:30-7 pm, June 19.

Camping Basics for Newcomers, June 20 (Regina) 
Newcomers to Canada are invited to learn the basics of camping from 7-8 pm, June 20, at the George Bothwell Branch Library.

Bat Stewardship & Citizen Science, June 20 (webinar) 
James Page will discuss bat stewardship and citizen science in a noon-hour webinar on June 20.

Coyote Walk, June 21-23 (Regina) 
Artist Jay White will hide from other humans as he walks and camps around Regina from June 21-23. The walk ends prematurely if White is spotted by a human at close range. Members of the public are invited to participate as trackers.

Wildlife Rehab Volunteers, June 22 (Swift Current) 
WRSOS is looking for wildlife rehabilitation volunteers throughout Saskatchewan. They’ll be in Swift Current at 2:30 pm, June 23. Email volunteer@wrsos.org to save your spot.

A full list of upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar 

In the News
Put your dollars to work preventing illegal uncontrolled agricultural drainage in Saskatchewan.

WUQWATR is looking for lake enthusiasts in central and southern Saskatchewan to participate in a water sampling project. For more information, contact Melissa Bramham at 306-946-6533 or melissa@wuqwatr.ca.

Endangered Grasslands Alliance, a new Saskatoon-based group, wants to save native grasslands - starting with Saskatoon's Northeast Swale.

Professor Cherie Westbrook is compiling information about Saskatoon’s beavers. Let her know, with GPS coordinates and photograph if possible, if you spot a beaver or a new lodge along the river.

100 all-candidate debates on the environment are being planned across Canada on October 7.

“A one-way flight from Ottawa to Toronto generates roughly 4,718 kg of carbon dioxide, which is about as much pollution as a car emits in an entire year.”

Reusable coffee cups and a package-free supermarket are on trial in the UK.

A municipality is sowing 27 wildflower meadows in its parks and open spaces to create a 7-mile bee corridor.

The Climate Change Toolkit for Health Professionals provides educational and advocacy resources.

“The pigeon is not a glamorous bird,” but Jon Day, author of Homing, “comes to admire their resilience, the ‘cocky, parasitic chanciness’ that allows them to thrive cheek-by-jowl with us.” [book review]

A praise song for unloved animals – even the most maligned creatures of backyards and roadsides have a potent purpose in the world.

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, April 16, 2019

Upcoming Events
Humanity in Harmony with Nature, Apr. 17 (Regina)
Nature Saskatchewan will present an overview of their programs at noon, Apr. 17, at Innovation Place Regina.

Batty about Bats, Apr. 18 (Regina)
Learn about local bats and build a bat box from 7-10 pm, Apr. 18, at the Saskatchewan Science Centre.

North Central Community Clean-up, Apr. 19-21 (Regina)
A clean-up is being planned for the North Central neighbourhood of Regina the weekend of Apr. 19-21. Indicate interest and lunch preferences in advance.

Three Cheers for Recycling, Apr. 20 (Moose Jaw)
Kids can celebrate Earth Day with games and crafts at the Moose Jaw Public Library from 10:30 am-12 pm, Apr. 20.

Appreciating the Worm, Apr. 20 (Prince Albert)
Enjoy displays and presentations on the work of worms from 12:30-4:30 pm, Apr. 20, in Prince Albert.

Repair Café Prince Albert, Apr. 20 (Prince Albert)
Share and learn skills to repair things at Repair Café Prince Albert from 1-4 pm, Apr. 20.

Save the Bees, Apr. 21 (Redvers)
Kids are invited to make a bee-friendly flower planter and bee hotel at Redvers Public Library from 1-2 or 2:30-3:30 pm, Apr. 21. Call 452-3255 or text 452-7734 to reserve a spot.

Earth Day Hike, Apr. 22 (Moose Jaw)
Moose Jaw Nature Society is hosting a hike at Buffalo Pound Provincial Park from 1:30-6:30 pm, Apr. 22.

Loss of Nature & Ecological Grief, Apr. 22 (Saskatoon)
The Saskatoon Enviro Collective is hosting a potluck supper and discussion about the loss of nature and ecological grief from 6:30-9:30 pm, Apr. 22. Register early as spots are limited.

Easter Break Explorer Camp, Apr. 22-25 (Saskatoon)
Kids 5-10 are invited to spend a week exploring the Saskatoon riverfront with Wild Sky Adventure Learning.

Meewasin Clean-Up Campaign, Apr. 22-May 30 (Saskatoon)
Dumpsters will be available for individuals and groups cleaning up the river valley. Register with Meewasin to be assigned a particular area.

Beginner Bird Id, Apr. 24 (Battlefords)
Find out more about the Breeding Bird Atlas project and learn the basics of bird identification from 7-9 pm, Apr. 24, at the Battlefords Wildlife Federation.

Not Your Grandparent’s Weather, Apr. 25 (Regina)
Find out what’s happening to our weather from 7-9:30 pm, Apr. 25, at the Sask Science Centre.

Looking Ahead
Student Planning Meeting, Apr. 28 (Regina)
Help plan the upcoming Canada-wide school strike from 3-5 pm, Apr. 28.

National School Climate Strike, May 3 (Regina) 
Regina is holding a national school climate strike from 11-12 pm, May 3.

Canoe Certification Course, May 18-20 (Saskatoon)
SaskOutdoors is offering a canoe certification course in Saskatoon May 18-20.

Food Forestry Workshop, June 14-16 (Ness Creek)
Permaculture Saskatchewan and Wild Sky Adventure Learning are hosting a forest gardening workshop at Ness Creek from June 14-16.

A full list of upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar 

In the News
NEW! Sustainable Yorkton & Area strives to support members to live a low impact lifestyle to protect and restore their community and planet.

Calling for a Sustainable Quill Lakes Solution is concerned about the absence of environmental impact assessments on 20 provincial wetland drainage projects. One couple has lost their property rights and the process has begun to expropriate their land by the Smith Creek Watershed Association. 

Concerns have been raised about the rezoning applications for Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. The first is being classified as agricultural land for use by public utilities; the second is being designated for future urban development. Why are they not being classified as parks or naturalized areas? Submit concerns to the City of Saskatoon.

Urban planners are questioning the necessity and route of the proposed perimeter highway: "Before spending an enormous amount of money, sit back and look at the big picture, because the big picture has completely changed."

Chet Neufeld, Native Plant Society of Saskatchewan, recommends planting native flowers in our gardens.

Swimsuits are bad for the environment.

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, March 12, 2019

Upcoming Events
Ferruginous Hawks, Mar. 13 (webinar)
Janet Ng will offer a noon-hour webinar on ferruginous hawks on Mar. 13 as part of SK-PCAP’s Native Prairie Speaker Series.

Standing Rock vs Dakota Access Pipeline, Mar. 13 (Saskatoon) & Mar. 14 (Regina)
Nick Estes, author of Our History is the Future: Standing Rock vs the Dakota Access Pipeline & the Long Tradition of Indigenous Resistance, will be speaking in Saskatoon at 12:30 and 7 pm, Mar. 13, and in Regina at 7 pm, Mar. 14.

Care & Pruning of Trees, Mar. 14 (Regina)
Find out how to care for your trees at the Regent Place branch of the Regina Public Library from 7:30-8:30 pm, Mar. 14.

Essence, Mar. 14 (Saskatoon)
Essence, a film about Ness Creek, is premiering at 7 pm, Mar. 14, in Saskatoon.

Repair Café, Mar. 16 (Prince Albert) 
Share and learn skills to repair things at Repair Café Prince Albert from 1-4 pm, Mar. 16.

Project Wet, Mar. 16 (Regina)
SaskOutdoors is hosting a Project Wet workshop for K-12 teachers in Regina from 9:30 am-3:30 pm, Mar. 16.

Ecological Literacy for Adults, Mar. 16 (Saskatoon)
Lichen Nature is offering an ecological literacy event to help people connect with nature from 10 am-2:30 pm, Mar. 16.

Flying Ambassador, Mar. 16 (Saskatoon) 
USask’s Wild and Exotic Animal Medicine Society will be bringing one of their animals to Wild Birds Unlimited from 1-3 pm, Mar. 16.

Prairie’s Got the Goods Week, Mar. 17-23 (Saskatchewan)
Enjoy daily webinars during PCAP-SK’s Prairie’s Got the Goods Week from Mar. 17-23. Topics include Prairie Wetlands: A Case Study of the Smith Creek Drainage Basin and Native Grassland and its Importance to Grassland Songbirds.

Bumble Bee Pathogens, Mar. 18 (Regina)
Kirsten Palmier will discuss bumble bee pathogens from 7:30-9:30 pm, at the Mar. 18 meeting of Nature Regina.

Bird ID for Novice Birders, Mar. 18 (Saskatoon)
The Saskatoon Nature Society and the SK Breeding Bird Atlas are offering a free two-hour workshop on the basics of bird identification from 7-9 pm, Mar. 18.

Indigenous Renewable Connections, Mar. 20 (Saskatoon)
Indigenous employees, students and businesses along with renewable energy employers and industry are invited to make connections and build relationships at the Workforce Connex event at the U of S, Mar. 20 from 8:30 am-4:30 pm.

Looking Ahead
Basic Wildlife Rehab. Course, Apr. 6-7 (Saskatoon)
Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation is hosting a two-day introduction to wildlife rehabilitation on Apr. 6 & 7 in Saskatoon.

Passive House Planning Package, Apr. 11-13 (Saskatoon)
This course, being offered in Saskatoon from Apr. 11-13, provides step-by-step instruction for using the PHPP energy modelling software, which is essential for designing a Passive House building.

Birding with Jared, May 26 (Regina) 
Join Jared Clarke on a birding bus tour with experienced guides from 8 am-4 pm, May 26. Pickups in Regina and Balgonie. Proceeds to the Milestone NDP Constituency Association.

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips 
Mar. 16, 7:45-10 pm – Saw-whet owling near Pike Lake
Mar. 30, 9:15 am-2 pm – Bluebird trip
Everyone is welcome. Check the Saskatoon Nature Society’s NEW website for full details and updated information.

A full list of upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar 

In the News
Environment Canada and the Department of Defence are working together to protect natural areas on military bases.

"It’s not about how old the trees are, it’s about how long there’s been a forest on that site. Studying lichen that can only be found in a particular site will help determine the age and biodiversity of a forest."

We are the Ark - “it’s up to each of us to re-wild our world, piece by piece until we have a patchwork quilt of sanctuaries that wraps its way around the globe.”

Vancouver Park Board looks into more humane pest control methods.

4 pairs of lovely legs - 9 of the world's most beautiful spiders.

EcoSask News is a weekly round-up of local news and events. Email us if you have items you would like us to include. 

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

New Year's Day Special

“Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable.” Mary Oliver 

We’re welcoming in 2019 with some new ideas.

What if . . . 

Your home was also an urban farm?

Your bike commute powered your neighbourhood?

You planted 5-10-100 trees a year for the rest of your life?

Your city was lit by glowing trees or squid-powered light bulbs?

There were more bees than humans in your city?

We heated buildings with heat pumps in our parks?

“People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day.” Winnie the Pooh, A. A. Milne

You can follow EcoFriendly Sask by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, or by email (top right corner).

A full list of upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar