EcoSask News, October 5, 2021

Upcoming Events 

Find out about all-season composting at an online Regina Public Library presentation at 7 pm, Oct. 7. 

Join Meewasin staff in removing invasive European buckthorn from Saskatoon Natural Grasslands on Oct. 12 or 15 (morning and afternoon sessions). 

The Saskatchewan Association for Environmental Law is holding its annual general meeting online at 7 pm, Oct. 14. 

Library of Things, Saskatoon, will be open for pick-ups by reservation from the back door in the alley from 1-4 pm, Oct. 15. 

Looking Ahead 

The Saskatchewan Environmental Society is offering online training on Nov. 5 & 19 to help non-profits and small businesses operate their buildings more efficiently. 

Full details on all upcoming events can be found on the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar

 

Local News 

Iain Phillips, Saskatchewan’s senior ecologist for aquatic macroinvertebrates, says that climate change and environmental degradation are playing havoc with aquatic insects. “And what happens to the insects he studies can be a valuable early warning sign of environmental problems.” [CBC News] 

The City of Regina is exploring noise reduction options in response to residents’ complaints about noise on the Ring Road. [Global News] 

Making Smart Choices 

“Pumped hydro has an important role to play in the renewable energy transition, but only where projects cause minimal harm to people and nature” [The Conversation] 

In the last 3 years, 10% of Vancouver’s building permits were in areas prone to flooding. Warmer temperatures will strain electrical distribution systems and transportation systems throughout the country. We need to publicize the risks, build for resilience, and take climate change into account [Canadian Institute for Climate Choices] 

Bad for us and bad for the planet – traces of 122 different pesticides in the 12 most polluted fruit and vegetable products, many with links to cancer and groundwater contamination [The Guardian] 

Canadians who purchase cheap fast fashion from online retailers may be exposing themselves to potentially toxic chemicals. For example, a jacket for toddlers contained almost 20 times the amount of lead that Health Canada says is safe for children [CBC Marketplace] 

An international review of the cruise ship industry “finds that cruising is a major source of environmental pollution and degradation, with air, water, soil, fragile habitats and areas and wildlife affected” [Science Daily]

 

Read, Watch, and Play 

A Pocket Guide to Pigeon Watching: Getting to Know the World’s Most Misunderstood Bird by Rosemary Mosco is “part field guide, part history, part ornithology primer, and altogether fun” [Saskatoon Public Library] 

You may also enjoy 10 Surprising Facts about Pigeons and Rita’s Re-Coop-eration 

11 new bird- and nature-themed books for kids – from hummingbird migration to dandelion seed travels and piping plover parents [Audubon] 

Orphaned, an hour-long documentary, examines Alberta’s ‘orphaned’ wells. “Thousands sit idle, ‘orphaned’ by companies that went bankrupt and left the pricey cleanup for taxpayers to take care of." A problem but also an opportunity for new purposes and new jobs [Calgary Herald]

In Season, a new video game, you’re invited to join a bicycle-riding woman as she travels around the world documenting plants, animals, and cultures before a mysterious cataclysm washes them away [Season]

Free! In honour of our 10th anniversary, we’re giving away individual or sets of our souvenir glasses. Email us if you’re interested. Supplies are limited, so act fast :-)

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 subscribing by email (top right corner).

EcoSask News, July 13, 2021

Upcoming Events 

Library of Things, Saskatoon, is reopening on July 17 from 1-4 pm. Pick up is by reservation only from the back door in the alley. 

Learn about bats from 7-8:30 pm, July 22, at Station 20 West in Saskatoon. Email communitygardens@chep.org to register (space is limited). 

Golden Eagles, a sub-group of the Saskatoon Nature Society, will be holding a variety of events on Thursdays in July and August. 

July 15 - Maymont area 

July 22 - Northeast Swale 

July 29 - Round Prairie 

Local News 

The Saskatchewan Environmental Society has spoken out on the importance of ensuring the safety of the Line 5 pipeline: “The Governor of Michigan and its residents have legitimate reasons to be concerned about Enbridge’s safety record. . . . The governments of Saskatchewan, Alberta and Canada should not simply be asking for Line 5 to remain open, but should simultaneously be pressing Enbridge to greatly improve its attention to pipeline safety in the state of Michigan and ensure full compliance with its easement agreement.” [Saskatchewan Environmental Society] 

The Village of Riverhurst is restoring a wetland at the entrance to their village. “We're hoping to use this as a demonstration site for other landowners and municipalities so they can know how to protect their own wetlands. For school-aged kids, they'll be able to come to learn about all the different birds and plants that live in a wetland." [West Central Online] 

Energy

Canada spent $23 billion to support pipelines in just 3 years: “When government money is tied up in a polluting industry there’s less money to invest in clean energy.” [The Tyee]

James Glennie, formerly of SaskWind, says Saskatchewan will lose jobs and engineering innovation through its emphasis on oil rather than renewables: “We should be developing a local supply chain because we do have the best wind and solar resources in Canada . . . . We have nothing to deliver on that and I think that’s a shame, a real shame.” [Regina Leader Post]

Carbon capture isn’t the answer: “Our state is addicted to fossil fuels and, like many addicts, instead of seeking to break our addiction. We seek ways to become functional addicts.” [DeSmog] 

Sustainable Choices

Don’t (just) fight the plastic, challenge those producing it. Write to the companies that use plastic packaging and ask what they’re doing to reduce their use of plastic. [The Earthbound Report]

 

Renting clothes is not a sustainable fashion option after all due to dry cleaning, delivery, and packaging costs. “You want to be sustainable? Buy less, buy better.” [The Guardian] 

 

Connections

Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y) proposes to preserve a 2,000 mile stretch of the Continental Divide eco-region by connecting recognized wildlife strongholds (Yellowstone, Banff, Jasper) with habitat bridges, wildlife corridors, and wildways. It’s an exercise in cooperation, “trying to blend conservation needs with the interests of local human communities.” [book excerpt, The Revelator] 

Florida has committed to establishing a wildlife corridor from the Alabama state line to the Florida Keys, nearly 800 miles. [New Yorker] 

Let's Hear It For the Birds!

The winners of the 2021 Audubon Photography Awards. And, advice from the award winners on how to become a better bird photographer. 

Two sandhill cranes in Alberta celebrate the birth of their young with song and dance. [Red Deer Advocate]

Did you know? Sandhill Crane mate for life and can live for up to 36 years.

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, January 19, 2021

Upcoming Events 

Sustainable YXE, Jan. 21 (online) 

Saskatoon Public Library is hosting an online discussion for teens about making our community more sustainable from 6-7 pm, Jan. 21. 

Vacationing in the Tropics, Jan. 22 (online) 

Nicholas Bayly will discuss the ecology and conservation of Canadian-breeding migratory birds in Colombia in the WildEcol Seminar Series at 3:30 pm, Jan. 22. 

Wildlife Rehab Orientation, Jan. 23 (online) 

WRSOS is holding a virtual wildlife rehabilitation orientation at 1 pm, Jan. 23. 

Eco-Scavenger Hunt, Jan. 23 & 30 (Saskatoon) 

Meewasin Valley Authority is hosting self-directed eco-scavenger hunts to help track wildlife at Beaver Creek Conservation Area on Jan. 23 & 30; Feb. 13, 18, 19, & 27; and Mar. 13 & 27. 

Where & How People Live, Jan. 26 (online) 

There will be an online discussion of how climate change is contributing to human migration as well as an update on local climate action at 7 pm, Jan. 26, as part of the Sustainability Speaker Series organized by the Saskatoon Public Library and the Saskatchewan Environmental Society. 

A Landscape Ethic, Jan. 28 (online) 

Dr. Hamilton Greenwood will share his photographic adventures and reflections on the beauty of Western Canada online at 7 pm, Jan. 28 (John M. Cuelenaere Library, Prince Albert). 

At Risk: Mormon Metalmark Butterflies, Jan. 28 (online) 

Shelley Pruss, Parks Canada, will discuss Mormon Metalmark butterflies, an uncommon species found in the Prairie Badlands at noon, Jan. 28, as part of the Native Prairie Speaker Series. 

Winter Readiness, Jan. 28 (online) 

Regina Public Library and Parks Canada are offering a program on animals that are masters at adapting to winter conditions at 7 pm, Jan. 28. 

Looking Ahead

Speed Networking, Jan. 29 (online) 

The Canadian Environmental Network is hosting a speed networking hour at 3 pm, Jan. 29, to help environmental organization leaders meet and find ways to collaborate. 

Repair Café, Jan. 30 (online) 

The Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council is hosting a virtual repair café 11 am-2 pm, Jan. 30. 

Winter Walk, Jan. 30 (Regina) 

The public is invited to join Nature Regina for a bird watching walk and to find out what happens under the snow and ice in winter at 10, 10:30, or 11 am, Jan. 30. 

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips 

Jan. 30, 11 am-7 pm – Great Gray Owl Excursion 

Feb. 6, 2-3:30 pm – Forestry Farm Bird Walk 

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

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

Local News 

The Athabasca Nuhenéné community has set up a Facebook page to share their connection to their land and culture and the need to preserve it. 

Agricultural drainage standards need to be in place and enforced to protect the environment and people. 

New! Responding to Climate Change: A Primer for K-12 Education, Sustainability and Education Policy Network 

The University of Saskatchewan and FCL continue to support research into cleaning up and managing contaminated sites. 

A growing chorus of experts says carbon capture isn’t all that effective and could even add to greenhouse gas emissions. 

How will Saskatchewan’s water supply be affected by Alberta's decisions regarding coal mining? Although a few coal leases were cancelled (January 18, 2021), most remain and would affect the water source for the Canadian Prairies.

 

From Information to Action 

Hydrogen is a lifeline for the oil and gas industry and a distraction from proven technologies – wind, solar, battery storage. 

The textile industry creates 10% of global CO2 emissions. “With production projected to increase 81% by 2030, we are sleepwalking into an environmental disaster.” 

“By 2040, forests will take up only half as much carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they do now, if global temperatures keep rising at the present pace.” 

Good News 

Two 17-year-olds are on a mission – to rewild Britain by restoring reptile and amphibian species that are either virtually extinct or have been extinct for centuries. 

The Harmony Project offers teaching resources to develop learning based on a deep understanding of, and connection to, the natural world. 

Thank you for reading EcoSask News. If you enjoyed it, please share it with someone – or many someones! 

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

Did you know? Great Gray Owl have very good hearing and can detect prey under 2 ft of snow thanks to the facial disc feathers that channel sound to the ears (Nature Companion, a free nature app for Western Canada)

EcoSask News, December 15, 2020

Upcoming Events 

Christmas Bird Count for Kids, Jan. 2 (Regina) 

Nature Saskatchewan is hosting a Christmas Bird Count for Kids at 1 pm, Jan. 2, in Regina. 

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips 

Dec. 20 – Qu’Appelle Dam (Elbow, Douglas Park) Christmas Bird Count 

Dec. 26, 9 am-5 pm – Saskatoon Boxing Day Bird Count 

Dec. 28 – Borden/Radisson Christmas Bird Count 

Jan. 2, 9 am-4 pm – Pike Lake/Whitecap Christmas Bird Count 

Jan. 10, 2-3:30 pm – Sanatorium Site Bird Walk 

Field trips are currently for members only, so sign up now. 

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

Local News 

SaskPower/Natural Resources Canada are offering no-cost virtual energy efficiency training for small and medium businesses between now and Mar. 31. 

A look at the missing pieces in Alberta’s Geothermal Resource Development Act reveals issues that may need addressing in Saskatchewan.

From Information to Action 

Part of pandemic preparedness is acknowledging that human, wildlife, and ecological health are inseparable. 

The Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources’ Indigenous Climate Change Adaptation Planning Toolkit provides user-friendly tools, resources, and key considerations to support Indigenous individuals and communities interested in undertaking climate change adaptation planning. 

Changing what our clothes are made of can make a big difference in cutting climate pollution. 

Wall Street has begun trading water futures, putting "a basic human right into the hands of financial institutions and investors, a dangerous arrangement as climate change alters precipitation patterns and increases water scarcity.”

 

The benefits and challenges surrounding the adoption of small modular nuclear reactors to meet urban energy needs.

Thin coatings of this material could soak up sun in summer months and provide heat to buildings in winter, all without using fuel or electricity. 

Natural Wonders 

Ferocious chompers, elephant birds, and a spike-covered turtle tail – Lost Animals: Extinct, Endangered, and Rediscovered Species [book review]. 

From snow-tunnelling ptarmigans to cheery robins and jingle shells – celebrating the season with Canadian nature. 

This is the last issue of EcoSask News for 2020, but we’ll be posting holiday specials over the next two weeks to keep you entertained. 

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

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

EcoSask News, October 20, 2020

Upcoming Events 

EnviroCollective, Oct. 22 (online) 

Regina’s EnviroCollective is hosting a virtual meeting at 7 pm, Oct. 22. 

Advancing a Circular Economy, Oct. 22 (online) 

The Recycling Councils of Alberta and British Columbia are hosting a webinar on national updates and provinces’ efforts to advance the circular economy at 10 am, Oct. 22. 

Household Hazardous Waste Days, Oct. 23/24 (Regina) 

The City of Regina is holding Household Hazardous Waste Days on Oct. 23 from 4-7 pm and on Oct. 24 from 9 am-4 pm. 

River Cleanup, Oct. 25 (Saskatoon) 

The Environmental Studies Students Association, U of S, is hosting a riverbank cleanup from 2-3:30 pm, Oct. 25. Everyone is welcome to assist.

Toads & Frogs, Oct. 29 (online) 

There will be a discussion about Great Plains Toads and Northern Leopard Frogs at noon, Oct. 29, as part of SK PCAP’s Native Prairie Speaker Series. 

Looking Ahead 

Early Childhood Education, Nov. 9-23 (online) 

SaskOutdoors is offering an online series on early childhood outdoor and environmental education resources from 7-8:30 pm, Nov. 9, 16, and 23. 

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

Local News 

Katie Suek, Restoring 71, shares her story of landowner-driven conservation, restoration, and education during a pandemic in a short video. 

Nature Saskatchewan has prepared 3 videos: 

What is an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA)? 

How do I monitor an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA)? 

Basic Bird Id Tips 

Southern Saskatchewan residents hold conflicting opinions, caught between the need to address climate change and support for the oil and gas industry. 

A new Nature Conservancy property extends a wildlife corridor near Saskatoon. 

A Pike Lake bioblitz – “I learned lots and had fun!”

 

From Information to Action

Secondhand jeans - Levi’s joins a select handful of fashion brands that have developed a ‘reverse supply chain’ to support secondhand sales. 

Canada’s hydroelectric power is a hot export commodity – but at what cost? 

There are over 24,000 orphaned and abandoned oil and gas wells in Saskatchewan. The cost to clean them up continues to grow. 

“Bringing the buffalo, the black-footed ferret and now the swift fox back, bringing those family members back home, connects us to our history with this land. It gives us a lot of pride as Natives.” 

The Arkansas Native Seed Program is collecting locally sourced native seed for large-scale habitat enhancement, habitat restoration and revegetation projects. 

Protectors of the Planet: Interviews with 11 Canadian environmental heroes [book review] 

2020 wildlife photography award winners 

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). 

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

EcoSask News, May 5, 2020

Upcoming Events (online)
Caring Sustainably for Saskatchewan, May 12-June 16 (webinars) 
The Caring Sustainably for Saskatchewan Collaboration is hosting a free webinar series on Tuesdays and Thursdays from May 12 to June 16 about addressing climate change at the local and provincial levels.

Sustainability Awards, May 13 
RCE Saskatchewan's 2020 Education for Sustainable Development Recognition Event is a virtual event from 9:30-noon, May 13. To attend, email the Event Coordinator at rcesk.event@gmail.com.

Environmental Philanthropy, May 14 (webinar) 
The Sustainability Network is offering a webinar on environmental philanthropy: what now, what next? at 11 am (in Saskatchewan), May 14.

More and more events are going online. Be sure to check the EcoFriendly Sask Calendar for details.

Local News
Birds in Real Danger, Saskatoon (BIRDS) needs your help in documenting bird window strikes in order to educate the public and gain support for the adoption of bird-friendly guidelines for buildings. Contact lswr@sasktel.net and join BIRDS in looking for evidence of window strikes in Saskatoon’s downtown area, on the University campus, or in your own neighbourhood.

The University of Saskatchewan’s 2019 Sustainability Report is now available online.

A new telescope at the Sleaford Observatory near Saskatoon allows users to go online, at any time of day, using a web-based program to schedule telescope observations.

Pronghorn are no longer at risk of extinction, but they still face many barriers.

Educational Resources
Basic bike maintenance: how to do your own spring tune-up.

The NatureForAll Discovery Zone includes resources from all its partners - from videos to lesson plans, comic books to coloring books.

Students across generations are flocking to online courses on movement building and the Green New Deal.

Build your own pinhole video camera.

From Information to Action
Cleaning up orphan oil and gas wells is a good start, but we need a long-term strategy for industry responsibility, economic diversity, and sustainable systems.

A movement is growing to retrain oil workers for the emerging renewables sector.

Coronavirus counter-measures have resulted in a record drop in fossil-fuel demand, but will it have a lasting impact? [infographic]

Next to water, sand is our most consumed natural resource – and it’s becoming scarce.

Efforts to ban single-use plastic have come to a screeching halt, without evidence that plastic is safer than other reusable packaging.

The changing role of sidewalks – from hygiene to equality to transportation.

Good News
Europe's first solar panel recycling plant opens in France.

A Dutch company will lease you a pair of jeans for 12 months. When the year is up, you can keep them, exchange them, or return them for recycling.

Hydrogen has been used to power commercial steel production for the first time in a pilot project in Sweden.

The beauty and diversity of the world’s insects.

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, January 14, 2020

Upcoming Events
Human-Induced Climate Change, Jan. 16 (Regina) 
Academics for Climate – Regina Chapter is hosting a discussion of the evidence for human-induced climate change at 7 pm, Jan. 16.

Full Tilt, Jan. 17/18 (Regina) 
Enjoy contemporary dance fuelled by a love of birds at 7:30 pm, Jan. 17, and at 2 and 7:30 pm, Jan. 18.

Renewable Energy, Jan. 20 (Prince Albert) 
Join RPIC from 6:30-8 pm, Jan. 20, to discuss plans for the early-April Smarter Science Better Building initiative.

Big Quill Lake, Jan. 20 (Regina) 
Jenya Kinstinov will present his undergraduate research on the Big Quill Lake Drainage Basin at the 7:30 pm, Jan. 20, meeting of Nature Regina.

Learn to Camp, Jan. 20 (Saskatoon) 
Parks Canada will provide an introduction to basic camping skills from 6:30-8:30 pm, Jan. 20.

Saving Our Swales, Jan. 21 (Saskatoon)
Meghan Mickelson and Warrick Baijius will share insights and recommendations for sustaining the Small and Northeast Swale ecosystems at 7 pm, Jan. 21.

Seeds of Change, Jan. 22 (Regina) 
Seeds of Change, documenting the impacts genetically engineered canola is having on farmers and rural communities in the Canadian Prairies, will be shown at 6:30 pm, Jan. 22, in Regina.

What Is Climate Change, Jan. 23 (Regina) 
David Sauchyn will discuss What is climate change? What impact is it having in Saskatchewan? from 7-9 pm, Jan. 23, as part of the Academics for Climate Community Series.

Net Metering, Jan. 23 (Regina) 
SaskPower will present their net metering program at noon, Jan. 23, at Innovation Place Regina.

Secret Lives of Woodpeckers, Jan. 23 (Saskatoon) 
Lyndon Penner will discuss woodpeckers at 7 pm, Jan. 23, at Wild Birds Unlimited.

Watersheds Conference, Jan. 23-24 (Saskatoon) 
The Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds is holding their annual conference in Saskatoon Jan. 23 and 24.

Building Operator Training, Jan. 24/Feb. 28 (Regina/Saskatoon) 
The Saskatchewan Environmental Society is hosting a workshop to introduce custodians and building operators to energy conservation principles, new technologies, and facility retrofits that will save energy and money from 9 am-4 pm, Jan. 24, in Regina and on Feb. 28 in Saskatoon.

Growing Up Wild & Wet, Jan. 25 (Regina) 
SaskOutdoors is offering a Growing Up Wild and Getting Little Feet Wet workshop from 1-5 pm, Jan. 25, in Regina.

Native Plant Conference, Jan. 25/26(Regina)
The Native Plant Society of Saskatchewan is holding its annual meeting and conference in Regina Jan. 25 and 26. The Aquatic Ecosystems module of the Saskatchewan Master Naturalist Program will be presented on Jan. 26.

Cross-Country Ski Weekend, Jan. 25/26 (Regina)
Wascana Centre is hosting a cross-country ski weekend from 11 am-4 pm, Jan. 25 & 26.

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

In the News
The newly created Academics for Climate - Regina chapter is on Facebook.

The Honnold Foundation is now accepting grant applications from organizations or projects that use solar energy to increase social and economic equity and reduce environmental impact.

Students across Canada will be collecting data on trembling aspens for University of Saskatchewan researchers.

Presentations from a recent workshop on Putting Beavers to Work for Watershed Resiliency and Restoration make it clear there are no simple answers when it comes to coexisting with beavers, but the potential benefits are many, including wildfire resiliency and enhanced fish growth rates.

Moving beyond net zero through home renovation rather than new build.

9 articles about sustainable fashion – from buying less vs. buying green to false claims of carbon neutrality and fighting climate change.

In a changing climate, will small forest creatures help by distributing nuts or seeds they’ve never seen before?

Just for Laughs 
Innovative responses to Thailand’s plastic bag ban. What will it be? A wheelbarrow or a laundry basket?

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 6, 2019

Upcoming Events
Household Hazardous Waste, Aug. 11 (Saskatoon)
You can dispose of household hazardous waste at City of Saskatoon’s Civic Operations Centre from 9 am – 3:30 pm, Aug. 11.

Fabulous Feathered Fun, Aug. 12 (Prince Albert)
Visit the John M. Cuelenaere Public Library for stories, rhymes, and craft featuring our feathered friends at 2 pm, Aug. 12.

Permaculture Garden Tour, Aug. 13 (Saskatoon)
Join Permaculture Saskatchewan for a garden tour and potluck at 6 pm, Aug. 13.

Prairie Bats & White Nose Syndrome, Aug. 14 (Eastend)
There will be a discussion on white nose syndrome on the Canadian Prairies at SODCAP’s AGM at 1 pm, Aug. 14.

Owls on the Prowl, Aug. 14 (Gravelbourg)
Kids can meet a burrowing owl from 3-4 pm, Aug. 14, at Gravelbourg Public Library.

Nature Activity, Aug. 14 (Churchbridge)
Churchbridge Public Library is hosting a special guest from the Yellowhead Flyway Birding Trail Association for a nature activity from 2-3 pm, Aug. 14.

Meditations on the Prairie, Aug. 14-Sept. 13 (Saskatoon)
John Penner’s photographs of the Canadian prairie landscape will be on display in The Gallery of the Frances Morrison Library from Aug. 14-Sept. 13.

Looking Ahead
Meewasin Eco-Scavenger Hunts, Aug. 17, 24, 31 & Sept. 7 (Saskatoon)
Help document active species in the Small and Northeast Swales, Aug. 17 (9 am-4 pm), Aug. 24 (9 am-4 pm), Aug. 31 (8-10 am), and Sept. 7 (9 am-4 pm). People of all experiences and backgrounds are welcome to join.

Wascana Junior Naturalist, Sept-Nov (Regina)
Kids ages 9-13 can participate in a variety of activities at Wascana Junior Naturalist from 6-8 pm on Sept. 10 & 17, Oct. 1, 22 & 29, and Nov. 19 & 26.

Forest Gardening North of the 29th, Sept. 13-15 (Ness Creek)
Richard Walker will share the key skills of forest gardening from Sept. 13-15 at Ness Creek.

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

In the News
Friends of Wascana Marsh is looking for volunteers to help with pond dipping and marsh hikes during the Harbour Landing Summer Bash from 10 am-6 pm, Aug. 25. Call Ramona at 306.531.9759 if you can help.

Saskatoon residents are encouraged to contact their City Councillor and to show your support for the City’s proposed Low Emissions Community Plan.

Conservation groups in Minnesota are urged to address unregulated agricultural sub-surface drainage tiling. Tiling drains fields rapidly and can lead to loss of wetland wildlife and plants, water pollution, and downstream flooding. A strong response to the article provides additional information both pro and con.

“The current carbon footprint of the fashion industry is over eight per cent of total global greenhouse gas emissions, larger than all international travel. . . . The average consumer bought 60 per cent more clothing in 2014 than in 2000, but kept each garment half as long. . . . and less than one per cent of all clothing produced globally is recycled.”

“There is no evidence that fracking can operate without threatening public health directly and without imperiling climate stability upon which public health depends.”

Energy development and commercial interests win when pitted against endangered species.

Wales’ Wildlife Trust has developed a short film based on Wind in the Willows to shed light on the problems faced by wildlife today. What if we developed a similar film for Saskatchewan based on Who Has Seen the Wind or Wolf Willow?

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 9, 2017

Upcoming Events
Bike to Work Week, May 15-19 (Saskatoon) 
This year’s first Bike to Work Week, May 15-19, offers daily commuter stations, a bicycle scavenger hunt, bicycling north send-out, and a bike rave.

Watching Wildlife in PA National Park, May 16 (Saskatoon) 
David Henry will talk about his book Watching Wildlife in Prince Albert National Park (book review), at 7 pm, May 16, at the Frances Morrison Library as part of the Sustainable Speaker Series.

Textile Waste and Recycling, May 17 (Saskatoon) 
What happens to unused clothing and how can we keep textiles out of our landfills? Find out more about textile waste and recycling from 2-4 pm, May 17, in Saskatoon.

Permaculture Saskatchewan AGM, May 17 (Saskatoon) 
Permaculture Saskatchewan is holding its annual general meeting at 7 pm, May 17. Guest speaker Steven Wiig will talk about the Oltumo Maasai Project.

Saskatoon Seed Library, May 17 (Saskatoon) 
Learn about seed harvesting, seed insecurity, and the Saskatoon Seed Library at 7 pm, May 17, at the Cliff Wright Branch Library.

Spring Bird Count, May 20 (Regina) 
Naturalists are relaunching Regina’s Spring Bird Count. Meet at 7:30 am, May 20, in front of the Legislature. All skill levels are welcome; each group will be led by a knowledgeable birder.

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

We are delighted to be an ongoing sponsor of Saskatoon’s NatureCity Festival. This year’s Festival Calendar of Events is amazing! 

In the News 
"we humans have created near immortality, not for ourselves, but for our supermarket food wrappings"

A neighbourhood flyways program and an urban bird treaty - great ideas from Seattle, Washington 

Vancouver is currently reaping the benefits of a green building policy. Let’s hope Saskatchewan cities follow their lead.

Here are some ideas for getting people to stop using disposable coffee mugs.

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 11, 2017

Upcoming Events
Bird Impact Reduction Day, Apr. 11
Windows – in our homes, offices, stores – can be a death sentence for birds. Here are 10 things we can do to save birds’ lives.

Easter Week at the Creek, Apr. 17-21 (Saskatoon)
Visit Beaver Creek during Easter break, Apr. 17-21. You can hike a nature trail, feed the chickadees, or explore the interpretive centre.

Sask Breeding Bird Atlas, Apr. 18 (Nature Prince Albert)
Nature Prince Albert is looking for people to help with the Saskatchewan Breeding Bird Atlas. Additional information will be provided at their Apr. 18 meeting from 7:30-9 pm.

Visit the Zoo, Apr. 18, 19, 20 (Saskatoon)
Visit the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo from 1-3 pm, Apr. 18, 19, and 20, and Saskatoon Zoo Society interpreters will introduce you to some of the socialized animals.

Sustainable Landscapes, Apr. 18 (Saskatoon)
Patricia Hanbidge will provide tips on how to design, grow, and maintain a sustainable landscape and garden at 7 pm, Apr. 18, at the Frances Morrison Library as part of the Sustainable Speaker Series.

Saskatoon Seed Library, Apr. 18 (Saskatoon) 
Karen Farmer, Saskatoon Seed Library, will talk about how to get seeds, Canadian seed insecurity, and the work being done around Saskatoon at the Cliff Wright Library from 1-2:30 pm, Apr. 18.

Bugs on the Menu, Apr. 19 (Regina)
The Royal Saskatchewan Museum is screening Bugs on the Menu at 6:30 pm, Apr. 19, as part of Canada Film Day 150.

Bidder 70, Apr. 19 (Regina) 
Cinema Politica will be screening Bidder 70 about climate activist Tim DeChristopher at 7 pm, Apr. 19, in Regina.

Overlapping Human & Animal Behaviour, Apr. 20 (Saskatoon) 
Dr. Joe Stookey will discuss the similarities between animal and human behaviour at the Apr. 20 meeting of the Saskatoon Nature Society.

Wildernook Launch Party, Apr. 21 (Saskatoon) 
Celebrate the launch of Wildernook Fresh Air Learning from 7:30-9:30 pm, Apr. 21, at Drift Café.

Zoo Run, Apr. 23 (Saskatoon) 
The Saskatoon Zoo Society is hosting its annual Zoo Run from 9-11 am, Apr. 23.

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips
Saskatoon Young Naturalists
Apr. 18, 6:30-8 pm – Crocus Hike
May 31-June 30 – Bluebird Trail
July 14, 1-3 pm – Butterfly Field Trip
Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment.
Golden Eagles
Apr. 20, 8 am – Brightwater Marsh
Apr. 27, 8 am – Osler area, including Neuhorst Sloughs
Retirees and partners who are interested in birds and the natural world are invited to participate in Golden Eagle field trips.
Other Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips
Apr. 15, 2-4 pm – Crocus Hike to Cranberry Flats
Apr. 22, 4:45-8 am – Short-tailed Grouse Dance to NE Swale
Check the Saskatoon Nature Society’s website for full details and updated information.

Nature Regina Field Trips
Apr. 15, 8:30 am-4 pm – Spring Discoveries on Route 99
Check Nature Regina’s website for full details and updated information.

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

In the News
The Prince Albert Seed Library is a collaborative effort between Prince Albert Parkland Permaculture Guild and John M. Cuelenaere Public Library

The Prairie Climate Centre has launched a new series of publications on building climate-resilient cities - from ecosystems to food and water to economics

Dressing to impress has an environmental cost - 1 kg of denim generates 23 kg of greenhouse gases

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 21, 2017

Upcoming Events
Ecosystem Services Provided by Native Prairie, Mar. 24 (webinar)
Sue Michalsky, Ranchers Stewardship Alliance, will discuss ways of valuing ecosystem services in a Mar. 24 webinar (SK-PCAP Native Prairie Speaker series).

Carbonless Concert, Mar. 25 (Saskatoon)
The fifth Carbonless Concert with solar-powered audio is being held from 6:30-9 pm, Mar. 25, at d’Lish by Tish Café.

Sustainability Slam & Carbonless Concert, Mar. 29 (Saskatoon)
The U of S Graduate Students’ Association is holding a Sustainability Slam & Carbonless Concert from 6-9:30 pm, Mar. 29.

Sage Grouse & Cropland Conversion, Mar. 29 (webinar)
Joe Smith, University of Montana, is offering a webinar on greater sage grouse and cropland conversion at noon, Mar. 29 (SK-PCAP Native Prairie Speaker series).

WUQWATR AGM, Mar. 30 (Lumsden)
Wascana Upper Qu’Appelle Watershed Association Taking Responsibility (WUQWATR) is holding its AGM from 6:30-8 pm, Mar. 30, in Lumsden.

Bicycle Mechanic Workshops, Mar/Apr (Saskatoon)
Bridge City Bicycle Co-op is offering weekly workshops from Mar. 30 to Apr. 27 on how to repair parts of your bike.

World Water Day Movie, Apr. 3 (Prince Albert)
Council of Canadians – Prince Albert Chapter is hosting a showing of the movie Above All Else at 7 pm, Apr. 3.

Nature Regina Field Trips
Mar. 25, 10 am - noon - NATUREWALK in Wascana
Apr. 8, 9 am – 4:30 pm – Early Arrivals & Winter Birds at Echo Lake & Fort Qu’Appelle
Check Nature Regina’s website for full details and updated information.

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips
Young Naturalists
Apr. 18 – Crocus Hike
Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment.

Golden Eagles
Apr. 6, 8 am – Bluebirds in Merrill Hills Area
Apr. 13, 8 am – Crocuses and Bluebirds
Retirees and partners who are interested in birds and the natural world are invited to participate in Golden Eagle field trips.

Other Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips
Apr. 1, 9 am – 2 pm – Bluebird Trip to Pike Lake
Apr. 5, 7-10 pm – Saw-whet Owling near Pike Lake
Apr. 12, 6:30-8 pm – Gull Identification
Check the Saskatoon Nature Society’s website for full details and updated information.

Looking Ahead
SK Living Green Expo, Apr. 7-9 (Saskatoon)
The Saskatchewan Living Green Expo, Apr. 7-9, includes presentations on solar energy, socially responsible investing, and reducing chemicals in the home. There will be bats and snakes in the Kidsphere, and DIY workshops on choosing a green builder, green heating options, and eco retrofits. Frank Wolf, long-distance wilderness canoeist, will talk about his 1800 km, 44-day expedition from La Ronge to Baker Lake.

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

In the News
Buy a rain barrel and support the Wildlife Rehabilitation Society of Saskatchewan’s efforts to help injured and orphaned wildlife. Rain barrels are $70 each and must be pre-ordered online.

The Council of Canadians Prince Albert chapter has won their city council executive committee's support for the human right to water and publicly financed, owned, and operated water and wastewater services.

JNS Yoga, Saskatoon, is committed to zero waste. First step - switching from paper to cloth towels.

3 easy step to take to protect wild bees.

15 ways to stop microfiber pollution now.

A New Zealand river is the first in the world to be given legal human status and is quickly followed by the Ganges and Yamuna rivers in India.

The burial industry is starting to offer greener end-of-life options.

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, February 21, 2017

Upcoming Events
HABISask, Feb. 27 (webinar) 
Ben Sawa, SK Ministry of Environment, will be giving a webinar about the new online mapping application HABISask – Hunting, Angling and Biodiversity Information of Saskatchewan – on Feb. 27 as part of SK-PCAP's Native Prairie Speaker series.

Greater Sage Grouse, Mar. 1 (Mankota)
Beatriz Preito, SK Conservation Data Centre, will talk about non-intrusive methods for monitoring greater sage grouse at 7:30 pm, Mar. 1, in Mankota, as part of SK-PCAP's Native Prairie Speaker series.

SES Solar Co-op, Mar. 1 (Saskatoon) 
Jason Praski will provide an update on the activities of the Saskatchewan Environmental Society’s Solar Co-op at the Mar. 1 meeting of the Saskatchewan Energy Management Task Force.

Climate Change Resiliency & Hospitals, Mar. 2 (webinar) 
The Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care is offering a Climate Change Resiliency webinar on Mar. 2. Two Canadian hospitals will share what they are doing to ensure they are more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

Cultivating Food Security, Mar. 3 (Regina) 
Cultivating Food Security: How to Save Seeds & Grow Microgreens will take place from 6:30-9 pm, Mar. 3, at the Regina Floral Conservatory.

Climate Change Conversation, Mar. 4 (Pike Lake) 
Rosetown Elrose NDP is holding a climate change forum along with their AGM at Pike Lake on Mar. 4. Three panelists will discuss policy, passive home construction, and solar power.

Lead Green Associate Training, Mar. 4 (Saskatoon)
The U of S Office of Sustainability is offering a half-day Lead Green Associate Training on Mar. 4 with reduced rates for students. The course is designed to help students obtain certified knowledge of the green building industry.

Big Bike Adventure Hunt, Mar. 5 (Saskatoon) 
Bike Doctor Detours is hosting a bike adventure hunt on Mar. 5 for teams or father/daughter, mother/son duos.

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips
Feb. 25, 1-3 pm – Weir and City Park Birding
Mar. 4, 9 am-5 pm – Gardiner Dam Field Trip
Mar. 12, 1:30-5 pm – Pike Lake Birding
Check the Saskatoon Nature Society’s website for full details and updated information.

Nature Regina Field Trips 
Mar. 11, 10 am-noon – Wascana Winter Birds and Wildlife
Check Nature Regina’s website for full details and updated information.

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

In the News 
“When we subsidize roads, socialize the costs of pollution, crashes and parking, and even legally require that our communities be built in ways that make it impossible to live without a car, we send people strong signals to buy and own cars and to drive—a lot.”

“We’ve worked so hard to professionalize science, but then scientists became the elite and isolated. Now [science] is returning the power back to the public.”

Fleece microfibers make up 85 percent of beach pollution. But how you wash your clothes can change everything.

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 9, 2016

Upcoming Events
Next Up Leadership Program (Saskatoon, Regina) 
Next Up leadership program is designed to help emerging leaders address policy issues. Deadline for application is Sept. 19, 2016, for Saskatoon and Oct. 7, 2016, for Regina.

Meewasin Board Meeting, Aug. 12 (Saskatoon)
The board of the Meewasin Valley Authority will be approving street lighting through the Northeast Swale at 12 noon, Aug. 12, at the Saskatoon Club.

Better Good Living Tour, Aug. 13 (Saskatoon) 
The Better Good Living Tour is scheduled for 12-4 pm, Aug. 13, and includes solar power, canning and fermenting, chickens and honey bees, and more.

Mission Monarch Blitz, Aug. 14 (Regina) 
Join Nature Regina and the Royal Saskatchewan Museum as they check the Native Prairie Garden for monarch eggs and caterpillars as part of the Mission Monarch Blitz from 2-4 pm, Aug. 14.

Looking Ahead
Canoe Certification Course, Sept. 10 & 11 (Regina) 
SaskOutdoors is offering a Paddle Canada canoe certification course on Sept. 10 & 11 at Lumsden Beach.

SaskOutdoors Nature Retreat, Sept. 30-Oct. 2 (SK)
SaskOutdoors is holding a nature retreat at Ness Creek from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2.

Canadian Heritage Rivers Conference, Oct. 16-19 (Saskatoon)
Partners FOR the Saskatchewan River Basin, in collaboration with the Canadian Heritage River Systems and Saskatchewan Parks, Culture and Sport is hosting the Canadian Heritage Rivers conference in Saskatoon from Oct. 16-19.

The conference will explore how rivers have shaped our culture, history, science and everyday lives in Saskatchewan and our collective Canadian identity across the country.

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

Read All About It
The Saskatchewan River Delta, at 10,000 square kilometres, is the largest inland freshwater delta in North America. It’s a major stopover point for migratory birds, while many others are hatched there and fly to other areas. It’s a spawning area for sturgeon and other fish. But it’s dying.

Striking Balance is a documentary series about Canada’s biosphere reserves, including Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve.

A relatively minor investment in retraining would allow the vast majority of U.S. coal workers to switch to solar-related positions.

Would you buy patched-up clothes to tackle textile waste?

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).