Introduction: A Vision for a Sustainable Future  GPS Prairie Forest Guide App PFG

The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas are embarking on a transformative journey towards the support and sustainability of a GPS smartphone Prairie Forest Guide Miyo-wâhkôhtowin (mee-yo wah-koh-toh-win) - Good Relations in Afforestation Areas interpretive app. This innovative app will serve as a platform to interpret flora, fauna, heritage, geology, geography, and notable biographies related to the two afforestation areas in Saskatoon, with a special focus on Species at Risk. Our dream is not just about preserving nature; it's about creating a sustainable future where humans and the environment can coexist harmoniously.

Did You Know?

$10,000 prize entry for $1.00!!!    Hey donate a minimum of $3.00 to the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. in June, 2024, through this page enters our charity,  Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas in the Great Canadian Giving Challenge and our charity will have a chance to win $10,000! 

Did you know? You can receive as much as 53% back through charity tax deductions.

Any size donation large or small helps enormously!

“Every penny counts!”

To make a large impact, and transform the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas donations of any size make a huge difference.

“With open hearts and open hands, we gave what we could, and a little became a lot.” –from Give a Little

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Section 1: Advancing Truth and Reconciliation

The Prairie Forest Guide is more than just an app; it's a tool for advancing Truth and Reconciliation. By honoring Indigenous stories, wisdom, and knowledge, the app fosters understanding and respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. The stories told through the app will celebrate Indigenous culture and history, promoting a deeper connection with the land and its people.  Taking action on the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, 2021–2030 and Fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism, 2021–2030.

Call To Action

We invite you to join us on this journey towards a Healing Forest. Together, we can create a space that honors our past, celebrates our present, and inspires our future. The Prairie Forest Guide will be a testament to the power of nature, the resilience of our communities, and the importance of reconciliation. It will be a living legacy, a place where we can all come together and say, "Miyo-wâhkôhtowin – Good Relations."

Section 2: Promoting Health and Wellness

Nature has a profound impact on our health and well-being. Spending time outdoors can improve mental health, reduce stress, and increase physical activity. The Prairie Forest Guide encourages users to explore the natural world, fostering a sense of connection with the environment and promoting a healthy lifestyle. By engaging with the app, users can learn about the benefits of nature and how to integrate outdoor activities into their daily lives. Advancing United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing, 2021–2030.

Section 3: Fostering Sustainability

As stewards of the environment, it's our responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world. The Prairie Forest Guide educates users about the importance of biodiversity, the threats facing our planet, and the actions we can take to mitigate these threats. By promoting sustainable practices and encouraging environmental stewardship, the app empowers users to make a positive impact on the planet.  Supporting United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, 2021–2030 and 2024–2033 International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development

The International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (IDSSD) represents a transformative opportunity to confront the myriad challenges posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, and global health crises. This critical period emphasizes the necessity of transcending conventional scientific boundaries and embracing interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate Indigenous knowledge and perspectives. By bridging diverse scientific disciplines, the IDSSD seeks to develop innovative solutions that prioritize sustainability and the well-being of both people and the planet. In doing so, it challenges Eurocentric traditions that have historically dominated sustainability agendas and calls for a collaborative model that values Indigenous knowledge and academic traditions equally. Ultimately, the IDSSD aims to empower policy actors to make informed decisions and advance the global pursuit of sustainable development.

Section 4: Inspiring Nature Guardians and Stewards

The Prairie Forest Guide is more than just an educational tool; it's a call to action. By sharing stories of conservation, restoration, and community engagement, the app inspires users to become advocates for the environment. Through the app, users can learn about local conservation initiatives, get involved in community projects, and connect with like-minded individuals. Together, we can work towards a sustainable future for all. 

Provides capacity to take action on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 Life on Land and United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 Life Under Water. Documenting species at risk of which there are documented 60 species of concern, engaging in early detection and rapid response for invasive species, and to document biodiversity which indicates to scientists species expansions and declines worldwide, and any changes in their habitat range helping to enrich knowledge for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Conclusion: Join Us on the Journey

The Prairie Forest Guide smart phone interpretive app is a testament to our commitment to nature and our dedication to creating a better future for generations to come. We invite you to join us on this journey towards sustainability, reconciliation, and environmental stewardship. Together, we can make a difference and create a world where humans and nature can thrive together.

Thank you for your support.