A Collective Effort to Keep Our Trails Clear and Accessible: Gratitude for Community Spirit
In the heart of winter, when snow blankets the ground and the trails are buried under a thick layer of ice and snow, it’s easy to forget the hard work that goes into maintaining our outdoor spaces. But thanks to the tireless volunteers and community partners, the Winter Trail Network in Saskatoon, the trails through the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, continues to be a cherished resource for everyone to enjoy.
One of the dedicated groups to keep these trails clear is the FatLanders FatTire Brigade (FFTB). Their hard work and commitment to preserving the 18 km of the Winter Trail Network – a shared pathway through the forest – is truly a labor of love. With each passing winter storm, the FFTB volunteers brave the cold to ensure that the trails are safe and passable for all who enjoy them. Their efforts allow skiers, walkers, and bicycle enthusiasts alike to embrace the outdoors, even in the most challenging of weather conditions.
But the effort to maintain these trails doesn’t stop with volunteers alone. The City of Saskatoon also plays a crucial role in ensuring that our recreation areas remain accessible throughout the winter months. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the city’s Parks Division for clearing the parking area, P2, at the South West Off Leash Recreation Area (SW OLRA), as well as the trails that run through the SW OLRA itself. Their work ensures that visitors have a safe place to park and access the trails, creating an environment where people can enjoy the natural beauty of the area without worrying about navigating snowy obstacles.
Additionally, we are incredibly grateful to the neighboring farmer who volunteers his time to clear the western parking area, P1, during the winter months. Armed with his front-end loader, he steps in to keep this vital access point open and safe, helping ensure that the parking area remains usable for trail users. It’s a generous gesture that truly reflects the sense of community spirit in the area.
Another community partner deserving of recognition is the Canadian National Railway (CNR), which takes on the responsibility of clearing the Saskatchewan Highway 7 service road by George Genereux Urban Regional Park. Their winter maintenance helps ensure that those visiting this area have a clear, safe route to access the park and its trails, further contributing to the area’s accessibility and the overall community spirit.
While these efforts are vital to maintaining the trails and access points, the community’s commitment extends beyond just clearing snow and maintaining pathways. The dog walking community plays an essential role in ensuring the area remains clean and safe for all users. We are especially grateful to individuals like Chris, Liz and others, who tirelessly volunteer their time to scoop the poop and encourage others to do the same. Their dedication is an invaluable part of keeping our public spaces clean and reducing the risk of spreading disease. Additionally, a heartfelt thank you goes out to all the dog walkers who take the time to clean up after their dogs, a small but significant action that helps maintain the cleanliness of the area and makes it a more pleasant environment for everyone.
The volunteers of the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas also deserve special mention for their ongoing efforts to keep the trails clear of litter. These dedicated individuals walk the trails, collecting trash and cigarette butts that might otherwise harm the forest and its wildlife. Their vigilance helps protect the natural beauty of the afforestation area, preventing harmful substances like cigarette butts from poisoning the environment. With dogs often roaming and sniffing along the trails, the volunteers’ efforts to remove these hazards are critical to safeguarding the health of both wildlife and pets.
Did you know?
The toxic dose of nicotine for pets is just 0.5 to 1 mg per pound of body weight, while the lethal dose is 4 mg per pound. And here’s a startling fact: cigarette butts can contain 2-8 mg of nicotine, which is enough to pose a serious risk to animals who may ingest them. Always be mindful to clean up after smoking in public spaces to protect our pets and wildlife and abide by the etiquette of the City of Saskatoon “No Smoking” Bylaw No. 8286 for city spaces!
When it comes to the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, the collaboration between volunteers, the City of Saskatoon, neighboring farmers, and organizations like CNR is a testament to what can be achieved when we all come together. This collective effort ensures that the forest trails remain a welcoming space for people of all ages to explore and enjoy WinterCity YXE, whether they are looking to get outside for a peaceful walk in the woods, enjoy a cross-country ski session, pop out snowshoing, engage in the Christmas Bird Count between December 14 to January 5 every season or take a winter bicycle ride.
As we reflect on these generous contributions, we are reminded of the incredible sense of community that exists in Saskatoon and its surrounding areas. It’s thanks to these efforts that we are able to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area during the winter months. For all the volunteers, city workers, farmers, and organizations involved, we offer our deepest thanks.
Winter in Saskatoon is made brighter and more accessible through the collective efforts of this amazing community. It is a spirit we are truly thankful for and one that makes our trails – and our city – a better place to live.
For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park
For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
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