EcoSask News, February 25, 2020

Upcoming Events
Wildlife Health Co-operative, Feb. 28 (Saskatoon)
Find out about the work of the Canadian Wildlife Health Co-operative at 3:30 pm, Feb. 28, at the U of S.

Cougars, Feb. 29 (Fort Qu’Appelle)
Tanya Lawson will discuss Saskatchewan cougars at the 7 pm, Feb. 29, meeting of the Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society.

100% Renewable, Feb. 29 (Regina)
Collectively imagine your community’s future at the 100% Renewable Regina Forum, to be held from 1-4:30 pm, Feb. 29. Register youth participants for facilitated groups for 6-10 and 11-15 year olds.

Public Pastures AGM, Feb. 29 (Regina)
Public Pastures – Public Interest will host its annual meeting from 1-5 pm, Feb. 29.

Greater Sage-Grouse, Mar. 4 (McCord)
Maggi Sliwinski, Grasslands National Park, will discuss greater sage-grouse at 7 pm, Mar. 4, in McCord.

Resilient Land & Water, Mar. 4 (Regina)
There will be a forum exploring the impacts and relationships between weather and climate variations from 5:30-7:30 pm, March 4.

Losing Faith in Science, Mar. 4 (Saskatoon)
Peggy Schmeiser will discuss how beliefs and uncertainty impact the use of evidence in decision-making from 12-1 pm, Mar. 4, at the U of S.

Water Conservation, Mar. 4 (Saskatoon) 
Darin Qualman will discuss the City of Saskatoon’s water conservation strategy at the Mar. 4 breakfast meeting of the Saskatchewan Energy Management Task Force.

Looking Ahead
SaskOutdoors AGM, Mar. 14 (Redberry Lake)
SaskOutdoors is holding its annual general meeting including outdoor family play time from 10 am-3 pm, Mar. 14.

Youth Songwriting for Nature, May 28-31 (Last Mountain Lake)
Grade 9-12 students who love nature and music are invited to sign up for Songwriting for Nature, May 28-31. Register early as the camp will probably fill up quickly.

Invasive Species Workshop, Mar. 24 (Saskatoon)
The Saskatchewan Invasive Species Council is hosting a Mar. 24 workshop to discuss invasive insects, animals, and plants.

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

Saskatchewan News Stories
The U of S and the City of Saskatoon are collaborating on a number of research projects, including one measuring pharmaceuticals in wastewater.

A Grasslands National Park bat inventory has confirmed the presence of seven bat species, four of which breed in the park.

The City of Saskatoon has undertaken a comprehensive review and redesign of its Official Community Plan.

From Information to Action
Living less than 50 metres from a major road or less than 150 metres from a highway is associated with a 14% increased risk for non-Alzheimer’s dementia and a 7% increased risk for Parkinson’s disease.

What if we as a society “prioritized care over consumption, repair over disposal, experience over efficiency?”

Four steps to help parents raise climate-resilient kids.

Time to Act: A Resource Book from the Christians in Extinction Rebellion reflects on Christian traditions of direct action and its relevance to the climate crisis.

Extinction Rebellion UK’s 2020 strategy pivots from protest to collaboration and building the alternative.

Good News Stories
A new Indigenous Guardians program will monitor six at-risk caribou herds in BC leading to the eventual creation of a new provincial park.

Cleaner engines and minor changes to the flight paths of just a few airplanes could cut the climate impact of flying immediately.

Dozens of public libraries have incorporated Libraries of Things, which “reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing and transporting underused goods” into their catalogues.

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 21, 2020

Upcoming Events
Shoe Repair, Jan. 22 (Saskatoon) 
Find out how to make your shoes last longer at a winter shoe/boot maintenance and repair workshop from 6:30-8 pm, Jan. 22.

Fish Hatchery, Jan. 24 (Moose Jaw) 
There will be a presentation about the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation’s mobile fish hatchery at the 6:30 pm, Jan. 24, meeting of the Moose Jaw Nature Society.

Sharp-tailed Grouse, Jan. 25 (Fort Qu’Appelle) 
Brandon Burda will discuss sharp-tailed grouse habitat selection and population trends at the 7 pm, Jan. 25, meeting of the Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society at the Fort Qu’Appelle Train Station.

Richard St. Barbe Baker, Jan. 25 (Saskatoon) 
Paul Hanley and Richard White will introduce Richard St. Barbe Baker, founder of the international Men of the Trees organisation, from 7-9 pm, Jan. 25.

Bike Regina AGM, Jan. 28 (Regina) 
Bike Regina is holding its annual general meeting at 6:30 pm, Jan. 28.

Energy & Material Flows, Jan. 28 (Saskatoon) 
Darrin Qualman will discuss sustainability: energy & material flows in human & natural systems at the 7:30 pm, Jan. 28, Café Scientifique YXE.

Beavers & Natural Infrastructure, Jan. 28 (webinar)
Miistakis Institute and the Candian Wildlife Service will be presenting a webinar on beavers and other natural infrastructure solutions from 12-1:30 pm CST, Jan. 28. Register by Jan. 24.

Looking Ahead
Repair Café, Feb. 1 (Gravelbourg) 
Gravelbourg Green Initiatives is hosting their second repair café from 9 am-noon, Feb. 1.

Art & Craft Supply Swap, Feb. 1 (Gravelbourg)
Swap and shop for art and craft supplies from 9 am-noon, Feb. 1, in Gravelbourg.

Winter by the Lake, Feb. 1 (Anglin Lake) 
Enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Anglin Lake from 1-4 pm, Feb. 1.

Winter Power-up Workshops, Feb. 1 (Regina) 
Join the Regina Public Interest Research Group for issue sessions and skill-building workshops for social and environmental justice on Feb. 1.

Gone Wild for Wildlife, Feb. 1 (Saskatoon) 
Take the whole family to Gone Wild for Wildlife from 10 am-5 pm, Feb. 1, for nature activities, science experiments, lectures, and live wildlife.

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

In the News
Regina’s EnviroCollective invites people under 30 to complete a short survey to keep the conversation going around renewable energy in Regina following last year’s youth community forum. Deadline is Jan. 30, 2020.

Canadian Institute for Climate Choices is a network of researchers who hope to produce rigorous and independent research, analysis and insight to bring clarity to the climate challenges and transformative policy choices ahead for Canada.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s very difficult to break down compostable plastics and they are only effective where the appropriate composting facilities are available.

“Coyotes test what decisions we make when we cross paths with those who are different” and are “a bellwether of our ability to live in community.”

Bobcats will live in cities, but they keep their distance from people, avoiding areas that are more than 20% developed.

Conservation policies based on the native-alien dichotomy could threaten biodiversity.

Success! After many years of legal and political battles, Jumbo Glacier will remain wild. Rather than a resort, the area will become an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area and will provide a valuable wildlife corridor for grizzly bears travelling north-south between Canada and the United States.

Electric cars work great – even in extreme cold.

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).

2019 Christmas Bird Counts in Saskatchewan

Join a century-old tradition by participating in one of the 2019 Christmas Bird Counts in Saskatchewan. No experience is necessary and it’s a great way to learn about identifying birds as each count is led by an experienced birder. Organizers ask that you register as soon as possible. 

Christmas bird counts are for all ages! Check out the Christmas Bird Counts for Kids in Regina, Saskatoon, and Yorkton (see below).

Dec. 14 – Clark’s Crossing (Warman, Osler, Martensville, NE Swale), register online or call 647-390-6645

Dec. 14 – Craven & area, contact Chris Harris for details (306-569-5300, chrisgharris2013@gmail.com)

Dec. 14 – Shell Lake, contact Ryan Dudragne for details (306-520-4824, laniusludo@gmail.com)

Dec. 14 – Swift Current, contact Arnie Ens (arnie.ens@gmail.com)

Dec. 15 – Qu’Appelle Dam (Elbow, Douglas Park), register online or call 306-242-5383 or 306-652-5975

Dec. 16 – Gardiner Dam, register online or call 306-249-3280

Dec. 17 – Fort Qu'Appelle, call Keith at 306-332-3070

Dec. 21 – Borden/Radisson, register online or call 306-281-6996

Dec. 21 – Saltcoats & area, call Arden & Donna Bradford at 774-7730 or Gerri & Ron Knudsen at 744-2969, rgknudsen@sasktel.net

Dec. 26 – Saskatoon, register online or call 306-652-5975

Dec. 26 – Moose Jaw, call 306-690-6267 

Dec. 28 – Regina, contact Brett Quiring for details (306-551-8729, bquiring@sasktel.net)

Jan. 4 – Balgonie, contact Brett Quiring for details (306-551-8729, bquiring@sasktel.net)

Jan. 4 – Pike Lake/ Whitecap, register online or call 306-956-3437

Christmas Bird Counts for Kids
Dec. 8, 2 pm – Yorkton – Ages 5-15 accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Tupper Avenue entrance to Logan Green. Bring binoculars if you have them and dress warmly.

Jan. 2, 9:45 am-3 pm – Saskatoon – Saskatoon Nature Society and Saskatoon Zoo Society are hosting a Christmas Bird Count for Kids at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo. There will be 20-30 minute bird walks at the top of each hour. Further information available online or call 306-370-8839.

Jan. 4, 1-4 pm – Regina – Nature Saskatchewan is hosting a Christmas Bird Count for Kids at Wascana Centre. There will be a special visit from Loki, the crow, courtesy of Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation. Register early as spaces are limited (306-780-9481 or rmagnus@naturesask.ca).

Note: With thanks to Nature Regina, Nature Saskatchewan, Saskatoon Nature Society, Saskatoon Young Naturalists, and Yellowhead Flyway Birding Trail for the information they provided.

We’ll  update this list if we receive additional information.

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

EcoSask News, November 26, 2019

Upcoming Events
Falconry, Nov. 28 (Saskatoon) 
Paddy Thompson will discuss the amazing world of falconry at 7 pm, Nov. 28.

Buy Nothing Day, Nov. 29 (worldwide) 
Climate strikes being planned world-wide for November 29 coincide with Buy Nothing Day, an international day of protest against consumerism.

Nature Travels in Iceland, Nov. 30 (Fort Qu’Appelle) 
Ed Rodger will speak on his nature travels in Iceland at the 7 pm, Nov. 30, meeting of the Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society in the Fort Qu’Appelle Train Station.

Grasslands: A Hidden Wilderness, Dec. 2 (Regina) 
Join Nature Regina and the Royal Saskatchewan Museum to watch the documentary Grasslands: A Hidden Wilderness followed by a question and answer at 7:30 pm, Dec. 2.

Future of Parks, Dec. 3 (Saskatoon) 
Mitchell Silver, Commissioner, New York Department of Parks, will talk on the Future of Parks and Public Space: What’s Next? at 7 pm, Dec. 3.

Civilization Critical, Dec. 4 (Saskatoon) 
Darrin Qualman will speak about his book, Civilization Critical, at the Nov. 6 breakfast meeting of the SK Energy Management Task Force.

Innercity Clothing Swap, Dec. 5 (Saskatoon)
There will be an Innercity Clothing Swap from 6-10 pm, Dec. 5, at The Underground Café.

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips
Dec. 1, 2-4 pm – Winter Wildlife Tracking in the Small Swale
Dec. 7, 9 am-5 pm – Gardiner Dam Birding
Everyone is welcome. Check the Saskatoon Nature Society’s website for full details and updated information.

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

Saskatoon Freeway & the Swales
If you love nature and want to protect it, you’re encouraged to attend the Saskatoon Freeway public consultations on Nov. 26 and 27. Here’s why:
1. The decisions around Phase 1 will affect the freeway’s route through both the Small Swale and the Northeast Swale;
2. The environmental data for the area crossed by Phase 1 is not complete, but Highways is making decisions about the specific route and design;
3. Decisions about the route will affect Wanuskewin's natural and cultural landscape which might affect its application for UNESCO Heritage status;
4. The route is being decided before having a full consultation with affected landowners; and
5. Highways says it is consulting with groups such as the Northeast Swale Watchers but has also declared that the route is non-negotiable.

Trees
Local people are concerned that the proposed logging of more than 7,660 acres of forest in Meadow Lake Provincial Park will do more harm than good.

Myles MacDonald, Paddockwood, was arrested trying to prevent municipal workers from chopping down all the trees and bushes that provide wildlife habitat in the road allowance.

“It’s often argued that logging trees killed by insects or diseases is beneficial for forests—but evidence is mounting that it causes long-term ecological disruption.”

In Other News
The risks of farming over top of pipelines: crop degradation and lower yields, leaks and ruptures, sinkholes, junk pipes never removed.

Canada has the third-highest per capita greenhouse gas emissions from healthcare in the world, with healthcare accounting for approximately 4% of the country’s total emissions.

“Redesigning parks to increase the naturalness, ecological function and diversity of active and passive recreational uses . . . can support higher-density urban areas.”

Noise, especially in urban areas, can have a very negative impact on wildlife.

Insect deaths can be cut by switching off unnecessary lights.

Our home delivery habits are reshaping the world: enormous warehouses, packaging that accounts for 30% of the US’s solid waste, and increased traffic.

Wolverines have vast home ranges and always take the shortest route, whether it’s straight up a mountain or a 50-degree ice pitch.

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, October 22, 2019

Upcoming Events
Waste Reduction Conference, Oct. 22 (Prince Albert) 
The City of Prince Albert is hosting a Waste Reduction Week conference from 9:30 am-12 pm, Oct. 22.

Blood-Sucking Creatures, Oct. 25 (Moose Jaw) 
Richard Pickering will discuss blood-sucking creatures in Saskatchewan at the 7:30 pm, Oct. 25, meeting of the Moose Jaw Nature Society.

NWT Road Trip, Oct. 26 (Fort Qu’Appelle) 
There will be a presentation on a road trip through the Northwest Territories at the 7 pm, Oct. 26, meeting of the Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society held at the Fort Qu’Appelle train station.

Repair Café, Oct. 26 (Gravelbourg) 
Gravelbourg is holding its first repair cafe from 9 am-12 pm, Oct. 26.

Repair Cafés, Oct. 26 (Saskatchewan)
Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council is hosting repair cafés in a number of Saskatchewan cities on Oct. 26 from 10 am-2 pm as part of Waste Reduction Week.

Household Hazardous Waste Day, Oct. 26 (Regina) 
City of Regina is holding a Household Hazardous Waste Day on Oct. 26.

Dark Skies at the Creek, Oct. 26 (Saskatoon) 
Celebrate International Bat Week with Meewasin at Beaver Creek from 12 – 11 pm.

NatureCity 2020 Celebration, Oct. 28 (Saskatoon) 
There will be a planning meeting for NatureCity Festival 2020 at 7 pm, Oct. 28.

Scary Birds, Oct. 28 (Saskatoon) 
Just in time for Hallowe’en, Lyndon Penner will introduce unsettling birds from around the world at 7 pm, Oct. 28.

Car Share Co-op AGM, Oct. 30 (Regina) 
Regina Car Share Co-op is holding its annual general meeting at 7 pm, Oct. 30, at 1109 East Broadway Avenue.

Goatsuckers, Oct. 30 (webinar) 
Mark Brigham will discuss Goatsuckers: The Enigma of Feathered Bats in a noon-hour webinar on Oct. 30.

Sharp-tailed Grouse, Nov. 1 (Regina) 
Brandon Burda will discuss Sharp-tailed Grouse: Habitat Selection and Population Trends in Saskatchewan from 2:30-3:45 pm, Nov. 1, at the University of Regina.

Looking Ahead
Build Sask Green, Nov. 14 (Regina) 
This year’s Build Sask Green conference is in Regina on Nov. 14.

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

In the News 

University of Saskatchewan 2018/2019 Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report.

“Frugality is an environmental statement that’s far more powerful than empty words or bumper stickers.”

What if we thought of our world as something precious to be handed down through time?

Planting native prairie could be a secret weapon for farmers.

Wildlife road crossings not only protect vulnerable animals and genetic diversity – they save money by preventing car repair and medical expenses following a collision.

“Because the House Sparrow can digest agricultural grains, they thrive pretty much anywhere—as long as it’s near people and our foodstuffs.”

Wildlife photographer of the year 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).

EcoSask News, October 1, 2019

Upcoming Events
Protect Our Boreal Forest, Oct. 2 (Prince Albert) 
Join the Council of Canadians in asking for a moratorium on logging in the boreal forest at 6:30 pm, Oct. 2.

100 Debates on the Environment, Oct. 3 (Saskatoon) 
Saskatoon University is hosting a debate on the environment at 7 pm, Oct. 3, during the federal election campaign.

90 Years of Conservation, Oct. 3 (Moose Jaw) 
Learn about the history and purpose of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation at 2:30 pm, Oct. 3.

Library of Things Fall Meeting, Oct. 3 (Saskatoon) 
Learn what’s happening at the Library of Things at 6 pm, Oct. 3.

100 Debates on the Environment, Oct. 4 (Fort Qu’Appelle) 
Regina Qu’Appelle is hosting a debate on the environment from 7-9 pm, Oct. 4, during the federal election campaign.

SaskOutdoors 50th Birthday Party, Oct. 4 (Echo Lake) 
Join SaskOutdoors in celebrating their 50th anniversary with outdoor activities from 5-10 pm, Oct. 4.

EcoHack, Oct. 4 & 5 (Saskatoon) 
EcoHack will bring together students from across the U of S campus to solve locally sourced environmental/sustainability-related problems.

Traditional Plant Walk, Oct. 6 (Saskatoon) 
The Saskatchewan Archaeological Society is hosting a traditional plant walk from 10:30 am-12:30 pm, Oct. 6.

Household Hazardous Waste, Oct. 6 (Saskatoon) 
You can dispose of household hazardous waste at City of Saskatoon’s Civic Operations Centre from 9 am – 3:30 pm, Oct. 6.

Wildlife Friendly Fencing, Oct. 6 & 8 (Saskatoon) 
Help Meewasin install wildlife friendly fencing around the Northeast Swale at 2 pm, Oct. 6, and 4 pm, Oct. 8. There will be more opportunities in October; register to stay informed.

The Importance of Grasslands, Oct. 7 (Saskatoon) 
Renny Grilz will discuss the importance of grasslands and show a film about Grasslands National Park at 7:30 pm, Oct. 7, at Grace-Westminster United Church.

Starlight at Sunrise, Oct. 8 (Regina) 
Explore the universe with the Royal Astronomical Society from 7-8:30 pm, Oct. 8.

Organic Waste Diversion, Oct. 9 (Saskatoon) 
Find out about the City of Saskatoon’s plans for organic waste diversion at noon, Oct. 9, at Innovation Place.

Hug a Tree and Survive, Oct. 10 (Prince Albert) 
Find out how children can stay safe in the woods at 7 pm, Oct. 10.

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.

Project Wet, Nov. 16 & 30 (Saskatoon, Regina) 
SaskOutdoors is hosting Project Wet workshops in Saskatoon on Nov. 16 and in Regina on Nov. 30.

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

In the News
Be sure to sign the petition to save Saskatoon’s Northeast Swale, which is currently under threat from the Saskatoon Freeway.

“Now is the time for climate change frames that question whether a finite planet can sustain eternal growth.”

Scenarios for a zero-waste future.

“If you see how cars, streetcars, bikes, and pedestrians use this street in Zürich, you can better understand what’s wrong with so many other urban thoroughfares.”

The 3 best eco-friendly toilet papers.

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 2, 2019

E. O. Wilson’s most fervent dream: “That somehow we have as a value, a human value, that we not destroy but we protect and study and understand and love the environment that was our birthplace.”

Upcoming Events
Seeds & Plants, July 3 (Churchbridge) 
Learn how to plant seeds plus reading and activities from 2-3 pm, July 3, at Churchbridge Public Library.

Pasqua Nature Conservancy Hike, July 4 (Fort Qu’Appelle) 
The Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society is planning a nature hike in the Nature Conservancy Pasqua land on July 4. Meet at the train station at 7:30 am to car pool. The hike will last from 8-11 am.

The Natural World, July 6 (Prince Albert) 
Join the Saskatchewan Science Centre for a nature/science program for kids from 9 am-12 pm, July 6.

Hidden Valley Wildflowers, July 6 (Regina) 
Join Nature Regina in looking for wildflowers from 8 am-12 pm, July 6, as they hike their Hidden Valley sanctuary.

Household Hazardous Waste, July 7 (Saskatoon) 
You can dispose of household hazardous waste at City of Saskatoon’s Civic Operations Centre from 9 am–3:30 pm, July 7.

AB Greater Sage-grouse Recovery Program, July 9 (webinar) 
Joel Nicholson, Senior Wildlife Biologist with AB Environment and Parks, will discuss Alberta’s greater sage-grouse recovery program in a noon-hour webinar on July 9.

Composting Workshop, July 11 (Saskatoon) 
Join Saskatoon’s compost coaches for a workshop on composting and low-waste strategies from 7-9 pm, July 11.

Looking Ahead
Wanted – Volunteers, Aug. 25 (Regina) 
Friends of Wascana Marsh are looking for volunteers with a nature/biology background to help them set up a booth, host activities such as pond dipping, and offer guided tours at Harbour Landing’s Summer Bash on Aug. 25. Email friendsofwascanamarsh@gmail.com if you’re interested.

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.

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

In the News
The Endangered Grasslands Alliance has made it easy to express your concerns about the perimeter highway running through the Northeast Swale by emailing your letter to local and provincial politicians directly from their website.

The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities will be working with First Nations Power Authority and the U of S School of Environment and Sustainability to develop better wind and solar power systems for rural communities.

Federal and provincial government funding will support transition away from coal in Saskatchewan’s mining communities.

Local theatre group tries to promote hope and change in all-ages play about climate change.

Take your car to a self-service car wash – you’ll save water and avoid runoff pollution.

Raymond, AB plans to go solar for all its municipal energy needs – from heating buildings to streetlights.

Growth is pointless in a mature economy. We should be looking for “qualitative improvement rather than economic enlargement.”

A female Arctic fox travelled more than 3500 km from Norway to Canada in just 76 days.

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 18, 2019

Upcoming Events
Household Hazardous Waste Days, June 21/22 (Regina)
City of Regina is holding household hazardous waste days on June 21 and 22.

Green Initiatives, June 22/23 (Gravelbourg)
Gravelbourg Green Vert Initiatives will be at Gravelbourg’s Summer Solstice Festival, June 22-23, with information on recycling, waste reduction, and helping the environment.

Butterfly Count, June 23 (Fort Qu’Appelle) 
The Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society is holding its annual butterfly count on June 23, weather permitting. Contact Keith at 306.334.2862 if you would like to participate.

Ask-Me Cart Volunteers, June 24 (Saskatoon) 
The Saskatoon Zoo Society is holding a training session for summer weekend interpreters for their biological artefact carts from 6-8 pm, June 24. Email info@saskatoonzoosociety.ca to register.

Rural Communities & Climate Change, June 25 (webinar) 
The Sustainability Network and the National Farmers Union – Ontario are offering a webinar on how to engage rural communities on climate change at 11 am CST, June 25.

Looking Ahead 
Prairie Wind Art Exhibits, June 27 (Val Marie) 
Meet the artists of Prairie Wind & Silver Sage’s current art exhibits – The Living Grasslands, photographs by James R. Page, and Small Works from a Big Land with artwork from across the province – from 7:30-9 pm, June 27.

Wilderness First Aid, Sept. 13-15 (Lumsden) 
SaskOutdoors is hosting a wilderness first aid training course Sept. 13-15 at Lumsden.

Saskatoon Nature Society
Golden Eagles 
June 20, 7:30 am – NCC property near Maymont
July 11, 8 am – Birds, Gardens & Art
Retirees and partners who are interested in birds and the natural world are invited to participate.

Other Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips 
June 26, 7:15-8:30 pm - May Haga Memorial Bird Walk
July 1, 9:15 am-2 pm – Wild Orchids Field Trip
July 6, 8:45 am-? – North American Butterfly Count
Everyone is welcome. Check the Saskatoon Nature Society’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 
Saskatoon’s swales are under threat says a recent report by a U of S graduate student. We can have “a functioning native prairie landscape with its biodiversity and wetlands intact, or some more roads and buildings,” but we can’t have both.

Why construct artificial wetlands and stormwater retention ponds if natural wetlands such as Saskatoon’s Northeast Swale are already available?

Canada’s clean energy sector is growing faster than the rest of the country’s economy.

The province of Manitoba has established a $52 million fund to pay farmers for preserving and protecting wetlands on their farms.

The number of plants that have disappeared from the wild is more than twice the number of extinct birds, mammals, and amphibians combined.

Why are highway expansion projects approved with little debate or criticism, while more cost effective and beneficial bikeway and bus service improvements controversial and unfunded?

Victoria, BC, hopes to create life-long transit users by offering free transit to youth under 18.

Canada’s hospitals couldn’t function without single-use plastics.

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 14, 2019

Upcoming Events
School Climate Strike, May 17 (Regina)
Regina School climate strikes are ongoing on Fridays from 10-11 am at the Legislative Buildings.

Explorer Camp, May 17 (Saskatoon)
Kids ages 6-10 are invited to discover the fauna and flora of the river valley on a guided bike tour with Wild Sky Adventure Learning from 9 am-5 pm, May 17.

Spring Bird Survey, May 18 (Fort Qu’Appelle)
The Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society is holding a spring bird survey on May 18. Contact Alan at 306-432-5262 or 331-9181 or by email at alanmlazgar@hotmail.com if you plan to participate.

SOS Elms Coalition AGM, May 19 (Saskatoon)
SOS Elms Coalition is holding its annual general meeting (with a surprise guest speaker) at 2 pm, May 19.

Migratory Bats, May 20 (Regina)
Erin Swerdfeger will report on her work with migratory bats from 7:30-9:30 pm, at the May 20 annual general meeting of Nature Regina.

Blue Gold, May 20 (Saskatoon)
Pint of Science is all about water on the prairies from 7-9 pm, May 20, in Saskatoon.

Snakes & Bat-ers, May 21 (Regina)
Enjoy a Pint of Science about snakes and bats from 6-8:30 pm, May 21, in Regina.

From Himalaya to Space, May 22 (Saskatoon)
From mountains in Saskatchewan to badass women astronomers – find out more at Pint of Science, 7 pm, May 22.

Zero Waste: Where to Start, May 23 (Saskatoon)
Find out how to arrive at zero waste from 7-8 pm, May 23, at J.S. Wood Library.

Looking Ahead
Star-Gazing, June 1/July 27(Grasslands National Park)
Join astronomers in exploring the skies in Grasslands National Park, one of Saskatchewan’s Dark Sky Preserves, on June 1 or July 27.

Traditional Plant Walk, June 16 (Saskatoon or Regina)
The Saskatchewan Archaeological Society is hosting a traditional plant walk led by Sandra Walker from 10:30 am-12 pm, June 16, in the Regina or Saskatoon area. Pre-registration is required.

Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips
Saskatoon Young Naturalists
May 29 – July 3 – Bluebird Trail
Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment.
Saskatoon Nature Society Field Trips 
May 20, 1:30-4:30 pm – Hyde Park Birding
May 28, 7-8 pm – Lakewood Pop-up Naturalist Event
Everyone is welcome. Check the Saskatoon Nature Society’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
In response to the UN Biodiversity Report, the Saskatchewan Environmental Society urges the government to give top priority to expansion of protected areas, wetlands preservation, and reducing greenhouse gas pollution.

Green your wardrobe – buy less and buy non-conventional fabrics from environmentally responsible companies.

1 square metre of prairie = 113 plant + animal species [video].

Fires, pests, disease and increased mortality – Canada’s forests have not captured more carbon than they’ve emitted since 2001.

Wildlife corridors and bridges are key to protecting biodiversity.

A local company is offering a furniture rental service.

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 5, 2019

Upcoming Events
Soil, Compost & Mulch, Mar. 6 (Regina)
Find out about soil, compost, and mulch at the George Bothwell branch of the Regina Public Library from 7:30-8:30 pm, Mar. 6.

Balancing Self-Care & Community Care, Mar. 11 (Saskatoon)
The Saskatoon Enviro Collective is hosting a potluck supper and discussion about the interplay between self-care and community care from 6:30-9:30 pm, Mar. 11. Register early as spots are limited.

Multiple Species Management Workshop, Mar. 12 (Consul)
Landowners and managers will discuss their experiences in implementing multiple-species management plans from 1-5:30 pm, Mar. 12, in Consul. This will be followed by a conservation appreciation supper hosted by Nature Saskatchewan.

Outdoor Lighting Design, Mar. 12 (Saskatoon)
Rick Huziak will discuss outdoor lighting design and its effect on the environment at 12 pm, Mar. 1, at Innovation Place Saskatoon.

Pre-Election Forum on the Climate Crisis, Mar. 13 (Fort Qu’Appelle)
The Qu’Appelle Valley Environmental Association is holding a pre-election forum on the climate crisis from 7-9 pm, Mar. 13, in the Treaty Four Governance Centre in Fort Qu’Appelle. Elizabeth May will be speaking; other national party leaders were invited but declined to attend.

Looking Ahead
Fridays for Future, Mar. 15 (Regina)
As part of the Global Climate Strike for Future on Mar. 15, participants will be meeting in front of the Legislative Building in Regina from noon-1 pm.

Bridging the Gap, Mar. 31 (Coronach)
Climate Justice Saskatoon will be holding a workshop in Coronach on Mar. 31 to discuss the community’s transition away from coal. Message Climate Justice Saskatoon if you’re interested in attending.

Sask Wildlife Society AGM, Apr. 6 (Saskatoon)
The Saskatchewan chapter of The Wildlife Society will be holding its annual general meeting from 11 am-6 pm, Apr. 6, in Saskatoon. Email chelseamanz306@gmail.com to register.

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

In the News
Citizens Environmental Alliance – Saskatchewan is calling on the federal government for an environmental assessment of agricultural drainage in Saskatchewan and the province's Agricultural Water Management Strategy. Support their work by signing the petition. For more information, take a look at We’re Losing our Wetlands – and that’s a Big Problem.

The provincial government’s proposal for a possibly 6-lane freeway around Saskatoon was approved around 2005 but with no environmental assessment and minimal public input. The proposed location would cut through both the Small Swale and the conservation zone of the Northeast Swale about ½ km from the North Commuter Highway through the Swale and the bridge would be located about the same distance from the new Chief Mistawasis Bridge. Northeast Swale Watchers are urging residents to express their concerns online.

In response to concerns raised by Birds in Real Danger and Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation, the Meewasin Valley Authority (MVA) has included a more rigorous assessment for bird-friendly building design in its review process and the City of Saskatoon has begun to develop bird-friendly building guidelines and is publishing a Healthy Yards pamphlet with tips to help homeowners protect birds from collisions with glass. Both the University of Saskatchewan and the MVA have added dots to some of their windows to prevent bird collisions.

“After water, concrete is the most widely used substance on the planet. . . . By one calculation, we may have already passed the point where concrete outweighs the combined carbon mass of every tree, bush and shrub on the planet.”

A teacher wore the same dress for 100 days to teach her students about slow, sustainable fashion.

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, October 23, 2018

Upcoming Events
Take Me Outside Day, Oct. 24
Teachers are encouraged to take their students outside for at least an hour on Oct. 24, Take Me Outside Day.

Art & Science in Wildlife Management, Oct. 26 (Saskatoon)
The WildEcol seminar series is held at 3:30 pm, every other Friday, on the U of S campus:
Oct. 26 – Bridging the gap between art and science in wildlife management

Anthropocene, Oct. 26 (Saskatoon)
Anthropocene, a cinematic overview of humanity’s reengineering of the planet, is being screened at the Roxy Theatre on Oct. 26. Check for the book, with photographs by Edward Burtynsky, in your local library or bookstore.

Travels South of the Equator, Oct. 27 (Fort Qu’Appelle)
Jean and Peter Ascroft will share their travels south of the equator on two continents at the 7 pm, Oct. 27, meeting of the Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society (at the Fort Qu’Appelle Train Station).

NE Swale: More than an Urban Park, Oct. 30 (Saskatoon)
Join the Northeast Swale Watchers from 7-9 pm, Oct. 30, to learn about the Northeast Swale, progress to date, and ongoing challenges.

There will be 5 short presentations: Renny Grilz, Meewasin, What's in the Swale: The Unique Wildlife and Plants of the Northeast Swale; Dr. Ryan Brook, University of Saskatchewan, Monitoring and Mitigating the Impacts of Roads on Wildlife; Rick Huziak, Sask Light Pollution Abatement Group, Reducing Night Lighting for a Healthy Swale; Brenda Wallace, City of Saskatoon, Protecting What Matters - Policy Perspectives; Candace Savage, The Last Refuge: Why Protecting the Swale Matters.

Household Hazardous Waste Day, Oct. 28 (Saskatoon)
You can dispose of household hazardous waste in Saskatoon from 8 am-2:30 pm, Oct. 28.

Lakeridge Park Field Trip, Nov. 3 (Regina)
Join Nature Regina from 10 am to noon, Nov. 3, on a birding field trip at Lakeridge Park.

Library of Things Volunteer Orientation, Nov. 3 (Saskatoon)
Saskatoon’s Library of Things is hosting a volunteer orientation from 12-1 pm, Nov. 3.

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

In the News
Two articles raise serious concerns for Saskatchewan residents:
     Air quality readings are off the chart in southeast Saskatchewan
     The government needs to allow regulators to enforce the regulations

Turtles survived the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs, but will they survive the Anthropocene? Where have all the turtles gone and why does it matter?

Coyotes can help build back biodiversity in rural and urban areas

5 ways cities could dramatically cut carbon emissions

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 11, 2018

Upcoming Events
Guided Nature Immersion Walks, Sept. 10 & 14 (Saskatoon)
Participate in a nature immersion walk with Dolores Burkhart on Sept. 10 at 1 pm and Sept. 14 at 10 am.

The State of the Lakes, Sept. 14 (Fort Qu’Appelle)
Dr. Peter Leavitt will present his 25 years of data regarding the Qu’Appelle River Valley Watershed at the Treaty 4 Gathering at 6:30 pm, Sept. 14, in Fort Qu’Appelle.

Wild Ecol Seminar, Sept. 14 (Saskatoon)
The WildEcol seminar series is held at 3:30 pm, every other Friday, on the U of S campus:
Sept. 14 – Ecological factors driving the population biology of King Eiders

No Justice, No Adaptation, Sept. 15 & 16 (Saskatoon)
Suha Jarrar will discuss the politics of climate change in Palestine at 6 pm, Sept. 15,  and at 10:30 am, Sept. 16, in Saskatoon.

Walking Saskatoon, Sept. 16 (Saskatoon)
Everyone is invited to attend Walking Saskatoon’s meeting from 1-3 pm, Sept. 16.

Word on the Street, Sept. 16 (Saskatoon)
Paul Hanley and Trevor Herriot will be reading from their latest books at Word on the Street, Sept. 16.

Saskatchewan Owls, Sept. 17 (Regina)
Kim Mann will talk about Saskatchewan owls at the Nature Regina meeting, 7:30 pm, Sept. 17.

Fruit for the Birds, Sept. 18 (Saskatoon)
Find out which birds love eating fruit and which plants appeal to them the most at 7 pm, Sept. 18, at Wild Birds Unlimited.

Tyzzer’s Disease, Sept. 20 (Saskatoon)
Gary Wobeser will discuss the fascinating history and people in the study of Tyzzer’s disease at the Saskatoon Nature Society meeting, 7:30 pm, Sept. 20.

Looking Ahead
Nature Photography (Regina, Saskatoon)
One way to enjoy and share the beauty of the natural world is through photography. Both the Saskatoon Camera Club and the Regina Photo Club offer a varied program, including field trips.

Star-Gazing (Regina, Saskatoon)
Both the Regina and Saskatoon centres of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada offer a monthly program. Check their websites for program information. Saskatoon also has a youth astronomy club.

Rollin’ It Up, Sept. 22 (Regina)
Help the Nature Conservancy of Canada remove old fencing and install bat houses on their Edenwold property on Sept. 22.

Canoe Certification Course, Sept. 29-30 (Regina)
SaskOutdoors is hosting a Paddle Canada canoe certification course in Regina Sept. 29-30.

Junior Nature Sketch Club, Sept. 29-Nov. 3 (Saskatoon)
Kids ages 5-12 are invited to join Junior Nature Sketch, an outdoor nature program that focuses on sketching and observing wildlife habitats.

Adult Nature Sketch Club, Sept. 29-Nov. 3 (Saskatoon)
Observe and sketch in wildlife habitats as part of the 5-week Adult Nature Sketch program.

Permaculture Design Course, October-April (Regina)
Edible Landscapes Permaculture Design & Consulting is offering a permaculture design certification course over 6 weekends from October to April in Regina. Registration deadline is Sept. 30.

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

In the News
An interview with Passive House pioneer Harold Orr.

Soil is filled with more biological diversity than any other habitat on Earth - here are some of the organisms that keep our soil healthy.

Wildlife corridors aren't a complete solution - generational knowledge isn't easily replaced.

Edward Burtynsky's new book records human changes to the planet.

When traffic-clogged highways are expanded, new drivers quickly materialize to fill them. Here’s how “induced demand” works.

George Monbiot refuses to believe that a better form of consumerism will save the planet.

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 24, 2018

Upcoming Events
CPAWS SK Meet and Greet, Apr. 25 (Saskatoon)
Meet the folks from the Saskatchewan chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society at 7 pm, Apr. 25.

South Sask River Watershed Stewards AGM, Apr. 27 (Osler)
The South Saskatchewan River Watershed Stewards will hold its annual general meeting from 12:30-4 pm, Apr. 27.

Wildflower ID, Apr. 28 (Fort Qu’Appelle)
Learn to identify local wildflowers at the Fort Qu’Appelle Nature Society meeting at 7 pm, Apr. 28, at the Fort Qu’Appelle Train Station.

Mending Meet Up, Apr. 28 (Saskatoon)
Library of Things is holding a Mending Meet Up with sewing machines and experienced sewers on hand to help you out from 1-4 pm, Apr. 28.

Wildlife Photography, May 1 (Regina)
Join the Regina Photo Club for a presentation on wildlife photography at 7 pm, May 1.

Living Heritage Symposium, May 1 (Regina)
Presentations at the Living Heritage Symposium on May 1 in Regina will focus on how we relate to the land in a changing world.

Global Warming & the Sweetness of Life, May 2 (Saskatoon)
The Stand is hosting a book launch for Global Warming and the Sweetness of Life: An Oil Sands Tale by Matt Hern, Am Johal, and Joe Sacco from 7-8:30 pm, May 2.

Sustainability Awards, May 2 (Stockholm)
The 10th Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) in Saskatchewan Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Recognition Awards ceremony will be held on May 2 in Stockholm.

Financing Energy Projects in Saskatchewan, May 2 (Saskatoon)
Frederick Khonje, Affinity Credit Union, will discuss financing energy projects in Saskatchewan at the May 2 meeting of the Saskatchewan Energy Management Task Force.

Demain, May 2 (Saskatoon)
Cinergie Film Festival kicks off with Demain, a film about pioneers reinventing agriculture, energy, the economy, democracy, and education at 7 pm, May 2 (sub-titled in English).

Bats of Mayfair, May 3 (Saskatoon)
Melanie Elliott will discuss bat ecology and the 260 bats that were rescued in Mayfair at 2 pm, May 3, at the Mayfair branch of the Saskatoon Public Library.

Looking Ahead
The Missouri Coteau: 10,000 Years in the Making, June 21-22 (Beechy)
The Society for Range Management field tour will be held June 21-22 in Beechy and will include plant ID, water quality, and monitoring with limited time and resources.

forestART, July 2-6 & Aug. 6-10 (Ness Creek)
Enjoy a 5-day Art in Nature experience at Ness Creek July 2-6 and Aug. 6-10.

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

In the News
The provincial government has posted the planned route for the Saskatoon Freeway (Perimeter Highway). The proposal calls for the northern part of the Freeway (red) to cross the Northeast Swale and the Small Swale very close to the route of the North Commuter Parkway (green). If you have concerns about the proximity of the two routes, please advise your city councillor and MLA. (map courtesy of Northeast Swale Watchers)

Locals provide information about the best places to bird watch in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba in Best Places to Bird in the Prairies.

The Beaver Believers is a film about a group of dedicated scientists who want to restore the North American Beavers’ habitat and range.

“There are no jobs on a dead planet” - unions advocate for a clear transition plan to a green economy.

A report on the state of the world’s birds reveals a biodiversity crisis driven by intensive farming, with once-common species such as puffins and snowy owls now at risk.

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).