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SAS K ATCH E WA N PA R KS A N D R ECR E AT I O N AS S O C I AT I O N

It’s a Walk in the Park!Experience Saskatchewan’s Parks and Open Spaces

01 SEPTEMBER 2011

SPRA STAFF

MANAGEMENT:

Chief Executive Officer Norm Campbell

Program Manager John Firnesz

Field Services Manager Randy Durovick

Communication, Information and Research Manager Luella Newman

RECREATION CONSULTANTS:

Information and Research Services Chantel Doerksen

Communications Lori Ross Christian Hardy

Human Resources and Funding Lee Anne Balliett

Parks and Open Spaces Andrew Exelby

Physical Activity and Fitness Wendy McKellar

Aboriginal Support Tim Haywahe Leadership and Evaluation Karen Thompson

Recreation Facilities Kelly Skotnitsky

Funding and Youth Tanya Murphy

ADMINISTRATION:

Business Administrator Bonnie Thiessen

Business Administrator (Half-Time) Anita Ehman

Executive Assistant Lois McNaught

Administrative Technician Ryan Monks Administrative Assistant II Wendy Chapman

Administrative Assistant I Shelli Belanger

Administrative Assistant I (Half-Time) Donna Matheson

Regina Office: Phone: (306) 780-9231 or 1-800-563-2555

FIELD CONSULTANTS/ADMINISTRATION:

Swift Current Richie Bleau/ Caitlin Mroz Phone: (306) 778-1091

Rosetown/North Battleford Kerry Bailey/ Michelle Longtin Phone: (306) 882-6601

Prince Albert Rob Boulding/Shari Morash Phone: (306) 953-0052

Weyburn Morgan Grainger/Vacant Phone: (306) 848-0272

Melville/Yorkton Michael Squier/ Linda Weinmaster Phone: (306) 728-3860

Humboldt Clint McConnell/ Lynne Morelli Phone: (306) 682-5265

La Ronge Jessica Lynn Phone: (306) 425-1910

Physical Activity Kelly Wood Phone: (306) 778-1095

MARCH 2013 | VOLUME 4 | NUMBER 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CEO’s Report 01 Meewasin to Celebrate International Trail Day 01 Experience Our Parks 02Boot Camp in the Park 03Nature’s Magic Charms All 04Self Directed Play 05Heritage Willows 05Communities in Bloom Summer Destinations 06Is it a Walk in the Park? 07 Urban Orchard Project 08Ahoy Matey at Kiwanis River Park 09 The Founding of Meewasin 10Playspaces for Vulnerable Children and Youth 12Organic Fertilizer 13Grants and Funding 13Self-Guided Tour Walks 14Lottery Lingo 15

DIRECTION is published four times a year (December, March, June and September). The publication is provided to members of the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association. Direct all communications to:

Editor, DIRECTION #100 - 1445 Park Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4N 4C5

You may also send letters or comments to Lori Ross, Communications Consultant, at 306.780.9370, by fax at 306.780.9257, or by email at lross@spra.sk.ca.

Articles within this magazine are the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of SPRA. Articles in DIRECTION may be reprinted, provided that full credits are shown for the author and the magazine.

SPRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Darrell Lessmeister

Director for Cities Jasmine Jackman

Director for Towns Mike Schwean

Director for Villages Clive Craig

Director at Large Corrine Galarneau Director at Large Mimi Lodoen

Director at Large Mike Powell

Director at Large Coralie Bueckert

Director for the North Derek Sylvestre

in motion STAFF

Manager Cathie Kryzanowski

Manager - Community and Target Strategies Marnie Sinclair

Executive Assistant Nicole Shewchuk

Consultants Cindy Anderson Communications Consultant Kim Herperger Amanda Perry

Administrative Assistant Danielle Bachart Phone: (306) 780-9248 or 1-866-888-3648 Fax: (306) 780-9466

MARCH 2013 01

CEO’S REPORTThe value and benefits of parks and recreation opportunities have long been recognized by people in Saskatchewan. We value the use of our greens-paces and this is even more apparent as the usage rates at our parks, campgrounds and recreation spaces continue to climb. In 2012, over 47,000 Annual Park Passes were issued through the Regional Park system.

Our communities are dedicated to maintaining their greens-paces and recreation opportunities. The creation of new park spaces and the continued development of existing amenities, contributes to a quality of living standard that is hard to beat. SPRA is proud to support parks and park initiatives across the province.

ADVOCACY AND AWARDSThe annual declaration of June is Recreation & Parks Month continues to showcase parks and recreation across the prov-ince with the many JRPM associated events that are held in our communities. In 2012, there were over 75 community ambas-sadors for JRPM. The SPRA Board also recently approved a new Parks and Open Space Award. This award is an opportu-nity for your community to be recognized for the development or redevelopment of private or public park or open space. This award is currently open for nominations.

PLANNING, TRAINING AND RESOURCES SPRA continues to provide resources, support and informa-tion to assist communities with the planning, personnel training and funding research that is involved in managing parks. We

provide resources through our online Information Portal and the Resource Centre where staff offer research as-sistance and resources for parks planning and alterna-tive funding sources. Support and information is offered through the Parks and Open Spaces Consultant, Field Consultants and the Grants and Funding Consultant. We inform our members of funding opportunities through our staff, E-news, website, print publications and social media. We also provide excellent, cost effective training opportuni-ties in both the Parks and Facility Operator streams at the annual Spring Education and Training Symposium taking place this April in Humboldt. Funding support is provided to Saskatchewan Regional Parks Association and through them to the 95 regional parks, serving 98 surrounding communities and 67 rural municipalities. We encourage two-way communication through the Parks and Open Spaces Advisory Committee and through network input to the SPRA Strategic Planning process.

BENEFITSGreenspaces can take the form of recreational facilities, nature reserves, urban parks, provincial parks, regional parks, trails, crown land and much more. The economic, health and social benefits that our communities and people experience as a result of these spaces are invaluable. Read about the value and benefits of our greenspaces in this issue or find out more by visiting the Resources and Advocacy section of the SPRA website at www.spra.sk.ca. SPRA is committed to supporting Saskatchewan’s parks and open spaces network and its significant contributions to our quality of life to ensure access and activity in our parks for the future.

Norm Campbell SPRA Chief Executive Officer

MEEWASIN TO CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL TRAIL DAY Saturday, June 1, 2013 Meewasin Valley Authority will bring public attention to the importance of trails for health, physical fitness and well-being by participating in International Trail Day! They will join the international celebration of trails, the Trans Canada Trail and Saskatchewan trails with a focus on their own Meewasin Trail. Meewasin is encouraging school groups to take a walk on a trail near them, as part of their daily physical education program, and on the Saturday, encouraging the general public to “walk, run, roll, canoe, kayak, geocache or ride a horse” on a trail near them. Meewasin will be booking Friendship Park and the community stage for June 1, and hope like-minded walking, running, cycling, geocaching, canoeing and riding groups will join in by staging their own event on a trail, in and around Saskatoon, or by having a display in Friendship Park. For more information, contact Meewasin at (306) 665-6887.

02 MARCH 2013

EXPERIENCE OUR PARKS!

PICNIC IN THE PARK Break out of your routine. Take lunch from home or grab something on the go but take a break in the park.

FRISBEEFrisbee is a sport that will never get old. Whether you are playing classic Frisbee or Ultimate Frisbee, let’s hope that the wind is at your back

Our parks provide gathering places to be physically active, socialize, relax, build community and connect with nature. In both summer and winter, the opportunities for passive and active enjoyment of our parks are endless. With the weather warming up and spring just around the corner, it is an opportune time to gather some friends together and try some of these great park activities!

GEOCACHING A modern day treasure hunt. Use hand-held GPS units to navigate around your park and find hidden objects. SPRA can supply you with the equipment and resources for your geocaching activities. Visit the Resources and Advocacy section of the SPRA website for details.

LOOK FOR WILDLIFE Our parks are full of wildlife. Deer, squirrels, birds and so much more, are there for you to see. Take the time to stop and actually look for the creatures that live here.

RELAX...READ A BOOK Take some time for yourself and relax in the park with a book. Spread a blanket out and enjoy the weather while immersing yourself in a tale of fact or fiction.

TAKE A JOG What better way to experi-ence nature and get your exercise. Many of our parks have excellent trail systems and if they don’t, you can make your own trail.

MARCH 2013 03

Traditionally, you may think of boot camp as a high intensity training camp designed to push the limits of military recruits across the world. In today’s modern fitness world, boot camps are group-training sessions that focus on metabolic conditioning, interval training, fat loss and the fundamental movements of fitness - like the squat and pushup. There are many benefits to group training. It allows participants to reach their fitness goals affordably, all while having the sup-port of like-minded people determined to improve their lives.

Teaching boot camp in the park can be an excellent option for trainers, however it also presents some unique challeng-es. Here are a couple of quick tips to get your outdoor boot camp started this summer.

Choosing a park is your first step. You can situate yourself in a common park and potentially have easy access to advertis-ing but will have the burden of distractions that a crowd may bring. You can also opt for a small neighbourhood park. Most parks will have playground equipment that can be included in a workout, providing it is not being used by youth. Whichever way you choose, it is important to contact your town or city to discuss permits and other programmed activities. Not all parks require a permit but some may, so to avoid a fine, do not miss this step!

Secondly, if you don’t already have a library of effective body weight, or minimal equipment exercises, its time to do some research. Perhaps participate in a colleague’s class or attend conferences such as SaskFit for ideas. Consider using exer-cises like animal movements – inch worms, bear crawls and crab walks, anyone? Don’t forget about the fundamentals like squats, pushups and lunges and their endless varieties. It may be worth investing in kettlebells, medicine balls or suspension trainers, provided you have the proper training. Inexpensive equipment, such as cones for drills, sand or salt bags and a deck of cards, go a long way. It will be necessary to have one scaled version and one progression for each exercise. The most important thing is to be creative!

Thirdly, decide who you will market to and how you will get the word out. Because of the endless possibilities for exercises in a boot camp, anyone, with any fitness level can be successful, so try to be as inclusive as possible. If you have a business website already this is a perfect place to advertise. If not, use social media like Facebook and Twitter. Providing one free class is also a way to make a new client feel welcome. In my experience, the positive results of exist-ing clients can be your best marketing tool.

Saskatchewan’s inclement weather can present some unique challenges to an out-door boot camp. It is important to decide if your boot camp will go rain or shine, but make sure to be aware of any lightning or excessive temperatures. You want your boot camp to be fun and safe, so it is important to protect your clients from any accidents or injury. Ensure everyone comes prepared with plenty of water and sunscreen. Have a First Aid Kit available on site and a phone, in case of emergencies.

Boot camp is a fun and inexpensive way to share your pas-sion for fitness with a variety of clients. Safety is key. Re-member to bring your positive energy to every workout. Be supportive, be creative and be tough. Help people exceed their perceived limitations. If you help clients reach their goals and you take care of them, they will take care of you and keep coming back. So good luck with your outdoor boot camps this summer and enjoy the beauty of Saskatchewan’s parks!

Michelle Coels CSEP – CEPBoot Camp Instructor

BOOT CAMP IN THE PARK Spring in Saskatchewan brings groups of trainers, fitness enthusiasts and individuals seeking improved health and fitness to many of our Province’s community parks. Who is up for some boot camp!

04 MARCH 2013

FAIRY HILL SOUTH NATURE’S MAGIC CHARMS ALL

The Fairy Hill South area in southern Saskatchewan is not just about stunning vistas with nestled wild spaces or uncom-mon wildlife species. It’s about partnerships, conservation, and people. … and about the future.

The Fairy Hill South property is an area of pride and joy for the Nature Conservancy of Canada, Saskatchewan Region (NCC Saskatchewan), located 35 minutes by vehicle north of Regina’s City Limits and intersected by Highway #6. Bought in 2011, NCC Saskatchewan is conserving Fairy Hill South’s 1342 acres (543 ha) of native grasslands, woodlands, river and flood plains, all ideal homes for aquatic and terrestrial species. This stunningly beautiful tract of land straddles the Qu’Appelle River Valley and holds ideal river bank habitat for a broad variety of mammals, birds, fish and aquatic species.

Securing the land is a mere first step in property conserva-tion, as NCC Saskatchewan begins by recording species numbers, removing old fence and debris and generally, take stock to determine how best to manage the area. Conserva-tion involves protecting habitat for many wildlife species, in-cluding those rare or endangered, or those species forced to move from their original habitat. And it’s important to ensure these natural areas continue to be accessible for all people to enjoy, as the rich natural lands therein also form part of our Canadian heritage … as well as part of our identity. Thus, conserving these natural areas is a real and lasting effort that helps ensure this natural land legacy is inherited by our children and grandchildren.

The gently rolling hills, sprawling fields and the leisurely-flowing Qu’Appelle River that make up Fairy Hill South is as iconic and magical as its name suggests … a name associ-ated with the area for well over one-half century.

The goal for NCC Saskatchewan is to manage the area in its natural state. These hillsides and valleys exemplify diver-sity and double as a destiny for all those who enjoy nature

and hiking. Imagine walking by thousands of noisy geese and visiting ducks, viewing perhaps an endangered species or species at risk - such as the Northern leopard frog and Sprague's pipit. Duck density maps from Ducks Unlimited Canada estimate 30-40 breeding pairs per square mile visit this area. The marsh area here is an important staging area for migrating ducks and geese, and a good breeding and stopover site for shorebirds. NCC helps conserve this habitat through complementary efforts that include annual grazing or haying of the native grasslands.

Fairy Hill South is a special property for more reasons than location. Its vast size, soil diversity and geographic moisture ranges from open water to dry tablelands. The hillsides are punctuated with Manitoba maple and burr oak, characteristic of a tall grass prairie ecosystem more commonly seen in neighbouring Manitoba.

NCC Saskatchewan’s management of the lands works well, especially with a little help from partners and volunteers. Its Conservation Volunteer Program invites volunteers to join staff in property clean-up and species counts, even invasive species eradication. Its Property Watch Program lets volun-teers adopt their favourite NCC property, visit often, and help with various stewardship activities. Foot access is allowed on all NCC owned lands.

For more information, call 1-866-622-7275, or email Saskatchewan@natureconservancy.ca.

NCC is Saskatchewan’s team of leading conservation biologists, ecologists and geographic information system staff. The NCC works to acquire lands through purchase, donation and conservation agreement, then subsequently monitors and stewards these lands to ensure they continue to sustain wildlife and biological diversity. Fairy Hill South is a prime example of NCC Saskatchewan’s conservation work.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has been working with partners since 1962 to protect natural areas and the plants and animals they sustain. By investing in conservation, NCC in Saskatchewan helps ensure natural spaces remain a home for wildlife, a haven for recreation and a vital resource that filters the air we breathe and the water we drink.

MARCH 2013 05

CHINOOK PARKWAYSELF DIRECTED PLAY Swift Current’s Chinook Parkway meanders its way along the Swift Current Creek for more than 22 km. It travels through beauti-ful parks and natural spaces and is used by many people as an important part of their physical fitness training regime.

Fitness enthusiasts know that the Chinook Parkway is a great tool to help them to go farther, to go faster and to stay healthy. The residents of Swift Current also know that the benefits of using the Chinook Parkway are many. Rec-reational time spent outside in nature is not only fun and healthy, but it is a great way to spend quality time with family and friends!

The City of Swift Current Recreation and Parks Department teamed up with ASUPCA, the Swift Current Library, the Swift Current Museum, The Southwest Naturalists and the Swift Current Watershed Authority to develop 5 Chinook Parkway recreational activity packs. Each pack has a different theme, with fun interactive equipment and activity guides to aid self directed play along the Parkway. Users can enjoy animal tracking, pond dipping, frisbee, geocaching, walks to heritage points of interest and much more! The packs are borrowed, free of charge, from April – September at the Swift Current Library. A popular item, the carefully assembled packs make it easy for families to get outside, to try something new and to enjoy all the benefits of Swift Current’s beautiful Chinook Parkway!

For more information about Chinook Parkway, call 778-2787, or visit www.swiftcurrent.ca. Enjoy the Chinook Parkway at the 2013 SPRA Conference in Swift Current, October 24 – 26!

Shawna Smuk, Community Recreation Coordinator City of Swift Current

INDIAN HEAD’S HERITAGE WILLOWS On the south east corner of Water and Ebert Street in Indian Head, you will find an outstanding grove of willow trees. These trees surround a small block of town proper-ty, with one residential lot on the east side. When the new owner of the lot saw these trees adjacent to her property, she was in awe and remarked that it was too bad that they couldn’t last forever. At first, this was only a dream, but it prompted an idea to the husband and wife team - the current Cub leaders. Plans were made for a project that was to last three years, but the results could last for many generations.

There were 22 Cubs in the Indian Head Cub pack. During one of their spring meetings, they were taught how to take cuttings from these heritage willows. They learned how to root the cuttings and to care for the potted infant willows. These cuttings were eventually planted in select areas in our community. One area that was enhanced was the banks of the flowing Sunbeam Creek which boasts of natu-ral sedges, cattails and grasses. The litter and long grass became a cleaning project one spring, then a planting plan was made. A two foot circle was prepared to provide a clean area for each planting. At last, the 35 cuttings were to have a permanent home and are now graceful 12 foot trees. This greenspace in our community was enhanced and the beauty of the willows is well preserved.

Our story does not end yet. As a three year project, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts were involved. Each member completed the requirements for badges in environment and citizenship. A submission about this scouting project was made to National Communities in Bloom headquar-ters. Roger Carriere, the founding president of National Communities in Bloom, had been involved in the Que-bec scouting movement as a youth. He forwarded the information to The Leader, a Canadian magazine about Scouting across Canada. In the May 2006 issue, a sec-tion entitled “Communities in Bloom and Scouting Grow Together” can be found explaining the Indian Head project. There was no badge for willow propagation, so a new badge was added to reflect the work required for such an extensive project. A national magazine article, a new scouting badge, the preservation of our Heritage Willows, experience in propa-gation and pride in the beautification of a greenspace in our community are the lasting benefits provided by these youth for everyone to enjoy.

Donna J. ThompsonIndian Head Communities in Bloom Committee

06 MARCH 2013

MARCH 2013 07

Why do I call camp a park? Well there are several outright facts that say camp is a park. For instance, a park defined by Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary, 1980, is:a) An enclosed piece of ground stocked with game and held by royal prescription or grant;b) A tract of land that often includes laws, woodlands, and pasture attached to a country house and is used as a game preserve and for recreation;c) A piece of ground in or near a city or town kept for ornament and recreation;d) An enclosed area or stadium used especially for ball games.

While camp may not be all the things listed, the overall reaching aspect of camp, and a park, is the out-of-doors, in nature, open space - okay forest is a stretch for open space - but I digress. The majority of activity that occurs at camp is outdoors, is in nature and gets people active.

Recently, I read an article online extolling the virtues of recre-ation and a newfound sense that being in the “Out-of-Doors” was a experience that especially children and youth should be introduced to. The exposure to fresh air, open space and nature are thought to be beneficial. What I say to the person writing the article is, come to camp and ‘take a hike’. Not the usual meaning of the word, I mean actually take a hike, get out in those ‘parks’, in nature in the forests, sand hills, and badlands of Saskatchewan. Take a walk, a ride, a canoe trip, any activity.

Camps within Saskatchewan are a great way of experienc-ing nature in a safe, holistic setting. Saskatchewan camps offer a wide variety of recreational experiences through some 80 organized camps that are commonly referred to as “the Summer Camp”. Camping experiences vary from one camp to another, some faith based, others skill based, and others like Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, the Abilities Council and Lung Association offer programs catering to specific populations. Some camps offer year round opportunities, with all season programs and rental opportunities for conferences and work-shops. Schools use camps in the spring, fall and winter for

IS IT A WALK IN THE PARK? I want to share with you my ‘park’, not the park you normally think about. Not the park at the end of the block or maybe a short drive away, not the park that is outside the urban sprawl, where I ski or walk my dog, not the park where I set up my caravan and swim and spend heady warm evenings visiting with friends. I want to share with you a walk in the park that I have enjoyed for over 50 years. I want to share ‘Camp’, my park!

outdoor education excursions and skill development.

‘Camp’ is very nature friendly and people friendly. Camp provides programs for all ages, in age appropriate groups. Camp is fun, develops skills, friendships apprecia-tion of nature. Camp is beneficial on many fronts for not only the campers, but also for the staff, Administration or the Board of Directors.

Camp is active! You can do things like water activities, boat-ing, canoeing, water toys, sailing or swimming, building sand castle. Go hiking, do crafts, games, horseback riding, nature programs and ecology, just to name a few. The list is large and the activities are physically, cognitively and holistically beneficial and did I mention, fun!

Many camps are located in or around Provincial or Regional Parks, lakes or nestled in the Qu’Appelle Valley. You want nature…we’ve got nature 24/7, 365 days, 360 degrees. Join us at camp and have a blast!

The Saskatchewan Camping Association (SCA) is an um-brella organization that helps individual camps be the best they can be, through a Standards and Accreditation Program for both facilities and activities. The SCA conducts education days for staff and Volunteer Board training, offers connec-tions to the Canadian Camping Association and has inter-national connections with other camp organizations. SCA offers the National Camping Insurance Program and partner-ships with like minded organizations for practical things, like bulk supply purchasing. Let us help you find a camp! The SCA has a directory of camps, listing all its members and what type of programs they offer and where to find them in the province. Look on the SCA website at www.saskcamping.ca.

David Godwin Saskatchewan Camping Association

08 MARCH 2013

ESTON COMMUNITIES IN BLOOMURBAN ORCHARD PROJECT

In September 2012, phase one of a new Urban Orchard and Park took root in the community of Eston. The local Com-munities in Bloom committee were the fortunate recipients of a $5,000 Canon Take Root grant, sponsored by Canon and Evergreen. The grant was used to begin the develop-ment of this new park, encompassing help from the Town of Eston, Communities in Bloom, Eston Composite School students and community volunteers. Upon completion, over 500 new fruit trees and shrubs will be planted in this new urban orchard and park.

To prepare for phase one, the local town crew prepared the new park grounds for planting and tree maps were laid out, trenches dug and watering plans put in place. The morning of September 27 brought bright sunshine, warm weather and lots of eager hands to help begin phase one of the planting. To kick-off the day, a brief assembly was held at the school and Eston Mayor, Al Heron, spoke about the importance of planting trees, telling students and com-munity volunteers that in 20 years “they will be able to visit

the park and see what a difference their contributions have made in the community for generations to come.” Following that, Cathy Cocks, an orchard owner from Empress Alberta, gave an instructional presentation on the importance of trees and a quick lesson on how to plant the trees. Once the brief presentations were completed, it was off to the planting site!

What a sight to behold, with over twohundred local children, youth and community volunteers working together for the benefit of the town!

Over 250 trees and shrubs were planted, with some ear-marked as memorial trees. People dedicating memorial trees were welcome to take part and personally plant the tree that would be dedicated to their loved one, with memorial markers placed at a later date. Once all of the planting and watering was completed, the Communities in Bloom commit-tee supplied a barbeque lunch for volunteers.

Future plans for the park include walking paths from all four corners of the park, intersecting in a centre site that will feature benches, flower gardens and statuary. This park is being built in the true spirit of community and will be enjoyed by many in the years to follow.

Valarie Mohan, School SecretaryEston Composite School

Eston’s Urban Orchard Project, an example of community development, engagement and a dedication to quality of life.

MARCH 2013 09

ESTON COMMUNITIES IN BLOOMURBAN ORCHARD PROJECT

Since 1986, families have flocked to the Kiwanis River Park playground, in the Wakamow Valley, for outdoor fun. How-ever, recent concerns about the health and safety of the aging playground equipment, as well as accessibility issues, made it clear the play area was in need of an update. Park officials also hoped a playground makeover would increase attendance.

In need of an expert, the Wakamow Valley Authority (WVA) turned to Jeff Jackson Playground Pro, a supplier of quality playground and recreation equipment. The company is a dis-tributor for Playworld Systems, a manufacturer of imaginative playground and fitness equipment. Jeff Jackson Playground Pro was tasked with installing modern playground equip-ment that would benefit children of all ages and abilities and increase interactive play.

Current trends in play equipment design make creating outdoor play spaces that entice and delight easier than ever before. Today, an exciting new variety of commercial playground equipment is available. Themed play equipment allows children to exercise their imaginations, along with their bodies. Studies show that children who engage in imagina-tive play develop the self-control, creativity and language skills that are crucial to achieving their full potential when they grow older.

After assessing the needs of the Kiwanis River Park play-ground, WSA selected Playworld Systems’ pirate ship equip-ment. Choosing the design of a ship as the playground ap-paratus pays homage to the historical use of the Moose Jaw River from the Edith, a passenger steamboat that operated in the 1920s, to the current day use of kayaks and canoes.

AHOY MATEY AT KIWANIS RIVER PARK!

New Pirate Ship at Kiwanis River Park Playground helps increase park popularity and attendance!

The playground features slithery slides, stern and bow climb-ers, porthole and drum cannon panels, and two sails - all enhancing the nautical theme of this playground. The fun new playground has drawn increased attendance to the park, as well as generated interest in rentals for dozens of pirate-themed birthday parties at the neighboring Kiwanis River Park Lodge and Pavilion.

Fantasy play spaces such as Kiwanis River Park’s pirate-themed playground, transport users to lands of make-believe. In addition to seafaring elements, custom-themed play equip-ment can include other theme park-like fantasy play com-ponents like towering flowers, rocket ships and tree forts. Immersed in these fantastical worlds, children of all ages are inspired to create their own stories and adventures. When imagination is stirred, the intellect develops and social and language skills flourish.

Wakamow Valley will provide ongoing maintenance, including yearly safety inspections, to ensure the equipment adheres to evolving health and safety standards. The goal is for the new playground to remain a safe and challenging space, charting a course that will benefit the community of Moose Jaw for years to come.

Jeff Jackson Playground Prowww.playgroundpro.ca

10 MARCH 2013

THE FOUNDING OF MEEWASIN

The story of Meewasin and the more than 60 km of Meewasin Trail through the City of Saskatoon and municipality of Corman Park begins some 40 years ago in the early 1970s and came about as the result of the great vision of some wise people.

An immediate threat to the tradition of public access to the riverbank in Saskatoon triggered a process that by the end of the decade, led to the creation of the Meewasin Valley Au-thority. When private developers expressed a desire to build residential property on pristine riverbank land north of what is now Circle Drive, the proposal met with robust protest. As 90% of the river was publicly owned at this time, the public was unwilling to allow private development to alter the status quo.

Both private and public developments in the 1960s and 70s in Saskatoon were occurring without a cohesive, overall plan. On September 23, 1974, Saskatoon City Council passed a motion to ask the Government of Saskatchewan to enter into an agreement with Saskatoon, similar to its agreement with the City of Regina for Wascana Centre. In response, the Province, along with the Federal Government, agreed in prin-ciple to support and fund a study of the riverbank’s potential.

A consultant’s report, the South Saskatchewan River Cor-ridor Study: Towards a River Edge Authority, Saskatoon-Corman Park, released May 3, 1976, recommended an autonomous agency be established to plan for and develop the valley’s natural and heritage resources in the 80 kilome-tres of river flowing through the Rural Municipality of Corman Park and the City of Saskatoon. At its meeting of June 7, 1976, Saskatoon City Council instructed its Planning and Development Committee to commence discussions with the Province toward the implementation of the recommendations contained in the report.

Representatives from the R.M. of Corman Park, City of Sas-katoon, the University of Saskatchewan (as a major land-holder in the valley), and the Provincial Government formed a committee in 1977 to give direction to a river project feasi-bility study. Accordingly, Vic Sommerfield, Reeve of the R.M. of Corman Park, Cliff Wright, Mayor of the City of Saskatoon, Bob Begg, President of the University of Saskatchewan, and Attorney-General Roy Romanow MLA for Saskatoon Rivers-dale, began to put in place an authority dedicated to preserv-ing the natural resources of the river valley.

In 1978, the four participating parties commissioned Ray-mond Moriyama’s report, The Meewasin Valley Project - 100 Year Conceptual Master Plan. Eighteen months later, on May 4, 1979, the Meewasin Valley Authority was created by an Act passed unanimously by the Saskatchewan Legisla-ture. The Meewasin Board held its first meeting on Sep-tember 5, 1979. The first Chair of the Meewasin Board was Peggy McKercher and the first Executive Director was Wes Bolstad.

Misunderstanding of the nature of the Meewasin Valley Authority’s mandate resulted in substantial opposition to the organization during its early years. The first two years es-pecially saw strong opposition, particularly from landowners and real estate agents who perceived Meewasin as a threat to their property rights.

There was some concern in the municipality of Corman Park about Meewasin’s ability to review developments on private property within its conservation zone. There was an incor-

MARCH 2013 11

rect belief that property owners would be required to obtain approval for even general tasks, like fixing a barn. It was not until later that the community understood Meewasin would not review developments valued at less than $10,000 (today, $25,000). Nevertheless, the Council of the R.M. of Corman Park voted in January 1981 to cease its participation. The Meewasin Valley Authority Act was amended in May of that year to remove Corman Park as a participating party. How-ever, crown land and city land in the municipality remained in Meewasin’s jurisdiction. Considerable opposition also arose in the City of Saskatoon regarding creation of Meewasin Park, one of Meewasin’s first projects. Eventually, the quality of the park and the widespread acceptance of the Meewasin Trail, another early project, were decisive factors in improving perceptions of Meewasin.

Meewasin centers in Saskatoon and runs approximately 60 km along the river valley, from Pike Lake in the southwest to Clarke’s Crossing in the northeast. It encompasses con-servation areas, parks, museums, interpretive centres, the university lands, canoe launches and more than 60 km of Meewasin Trail. Including the South Saskatchewan River, there are more than 25 square miles in the conservation zone.

Meewasin developments in the past 12 years include the Weir Riverworks in 2001, the Riverfront at River Landing in 2004-05, the new skating rink shelter and washrooms in 2011 and continuous extensions to the Meewasin Trail, including commuter trail backshore links and improvements to the two interpretive centres: Beaver Creek Conservation Area and Meewasin Valley Centre.

Now 34 years later, by anyone’s measure, Raymond Mori-yama’s Meewasin Valley Project has been an outstanding success. Overcoming early opposition, Meewasin has grown to become one of the most popular and appreciated organi-zations in the Saskatoon region. Public opinion polls indicate an almost unanimous public endorsement of Meewasin. Of the $90 million Meewasin has spent in park and trail develop-ment in the past 34 years, more than $18 million has come from the local taxpayer. The balance has been leveraged through fund development programs. The return to Saska-toon and area citizens is 5 times.

Today, more than 1 million visits are made annually to the award winning Meewasin Trail.

88% of Saskatonians see Meewasin as contributing to their quality of life. 84% see Meewasin as attracting visitors, 84% as a good investment of tax dollars, while 75% have used Meewasin facilities in the past year. Education and conser-vation programs annually engage thousands of school chil-dren and the general public, with more than 60,000 partici-pants counted in 2012. Out of the Saskatoon Star Phoenix’s series, 52 Reasons to Love Saskatoon, the Meewasin Valley directly supported 23. Features like Meewasin Park, the Rotary International Peace Plaza, Cosmopolitan Park, Bea-ver Creek Conservation Area, Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Cranberry Flats, Gabriel Dumont Park, the Meewasin Weir Riverworks Redevelopment, River Landing, the Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink @PotashCorp Plaza, the Saskatoon Natural Grasslands and the Northeast Swale are some of the treasured assets in a community shaped by the South Sas-katchewan River. The Meewasin Valley is Saskatoon’s com-mons or gathering place – both literally and in our psyche. The Meewasin Valley contributes to Saskatoon’s ability to be a creative city, a sustainable city and a healthy city. This is a story of extraordinary accomplishment.

Thank you to the Meewasin Founders and those along the way from the City of Saskatoon, the Province of Saskatch-ewan and the University of Saskatchewan, who created Meewasin as it is today, a conserved South Saskatchewan River Valley developed for free public access for now and future generations. Thank you to our donors, our staff and our supporters who transformed their vision into a legacy so that we all might walk, run and roll in our naturally conserved riverbank parks. Meewasin is 34 years into its 100-Year Plan. The next 66 years shall prove exciting.

Candice Brownell and Doug PorteousMeewasin Valley Authority

Historical Information: Hanley, Paul, 25 Years in the Life of a River Valley. Saska-toon: Meewasin Valley Authority, 2006

12 MARCH 2013

Living in a low-income neighbourhood means a child has an even higher risk of being hospitalized due to a playground injury, as they have less access to protective equipment or devices.

At the same time, unstructured play is known to be an ac-tive form of learning for children and a critical component of healthy development, including learning about objects and social relationships, and developing physical and problem-solving skills.

Efforts are underway to better address the needs of chil-dren while they play. Play Spaces for Vulnerable Children and Youth in Canada, under The Public Health Agency of Canada’s Active and Safe Injury Prevention Initiative, is a joint-project by Parachute, The BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit and The Canadian Parks and Recreation Association.

Focusing on vulnerable children and youth in Canada, includ-ing those from urban, rural, remote and Northern communi-ties, First Nations on-reserve and Inuit communities, the project aims to:

Describe what we know about current outdoor play spaces for vulnerable populations in Canada Develop an online training tool for inspecting outdoor play

spaces for safety issues

Currently near completion of phase one: information gather-ing, the project highlights that playground designs need to consider children’s behaviour in the real world. Children will use equipment in all possible ways, regardless of design in-tention. Well-designed playgrounds encourage a child to take risks within a semi-controlled environment that protects them from a hazard they may be unable to foresee.

There is therefore a balance to be struck in playground design - between challenge and hazard. Design standards

PLAYSPACES FOR VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND YOUTH Injury is the leading cause of death among children and youth in Canada, and playgrounds and other play spaces are among the areas where inju-ries to children and youth frequently happen. An estimated 2,500 children age 14 and younger are hospitalized every year in Canada for serious playground injuries.

developed by organizations such as The Canadian Stan-dards Association (CSA) can help achieve this balance. The goal of the CSA’s standards is to help manufacturers design child-scaled and hazard-free equipment, and to aid install-ers and operators to position and maintain the equipment to reduce the frequency and severity of injuries. Behind each measure prescribed is a rationale based on injury analysis, anthropometric research (regarding the size of children’s body parts) and the study of children’s play behaviours. The standards recommend a number of safety measures, audits, inspection and maintenance routines that should help keep well-designed play spaces as safe as possible at all times.

Forthcoming steps in The Play Spaces for Vulnerable Chil-dren and Youth in Canada project will provide communities with the tools and resources they need to maintain the safety of their playgrounds and play spaces. An online training tool will be developed and made accessible to train community members as outdoor play spaces inspectors in communities with vulnerable children and youth. As well, First Nations and Inuit partners will be consulted to conduct a parallel process to develop a culturally sensitive training tool.

Play Spaces for Vulnerable Children and Youth in Canada aims to increase awareness around safe outdoor play spac-es for vulnerable children and youth in Canada. All commu-nities can ensure that their children are able to play in a safe and constructive environment by adopting the maintenance and inspection guidelines provided by organizations like the Canadian Standard’s Association.

Funding for this project has been made possible through a contribution from the Public Health Agency of Canada. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Amy WanounouManager, Government Relations Parachute

MARCH 2013 13

TEEN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY GRANTSApplication deadline: 15th of every monthUp to $500 is available to registered community organizations across the country to fund physical activity programs for teens.

SPRA FIRST NATION MEMBER’S RECREATION DEVELOPMENT GRANT Application deadline: April 1, 2013Up to a maximum of $2,000 is available to First Nation members to develop recreation opportunities.

SPRA MÉTIS RECREATION DEVELOPMENT GRANT Application deadline: April 1, 2013Up to a maximum of $2,000 is available to Active members of SPRA to develop recreation programs in their communities.

SPRA FOREVER...IN MOTION GRANTApplication Deadline: May 15, 2013Up to a maximum of $3,000 is available to communities that are Active members of SPRA and who wish to develop and implement a Forever…in motion program in their community.

For information on these or other grants and funding opportunities, visit www.spra.sk.ca/funding.

Organic matter, a key soil component that impacts your aeration levels (allowing for the movement of both nutrients, oxygen, and water), is another important soil quality which should be examined prior to applying fertilizers. Organic matter also helps with the soil’s moisture retention abilities.1 While organic matter can essentially be recycled in the soil, some areas (such as sandy zones) require the addition of an organic matter source in order to obtain maximum plant efficiency.

There are many natural and certified organic options avail-able to you for green space and turf care, including milor-ganite (sewage sludge), compost, corn gluten meal, alfalfa pellets, humic acid, fish meal, manure, or biochar to name a few. Trials by Olds College compared alfalfa pellets, milor-ganite, corn gluten meal and soybean meal and found that the treatments with the alfalfa pellets showed higher overall clipping mass than all other options of Kentucky bluegrass. Additionally, the alfalfa pellets performed as well as the natural industry standard milorganite in turf colour and overall coverage.2 Compared to synthetics, alfalfa pellets have also been shown to perform admirably with a University of Guelph study comparing alfalfa pellets and a synthetic 18-9-18. Results showed the alfalfa pellet treatments had significantly better germination and cover than either the unfertilized control or the NPK treatment. As well, alfalfa pellets had a significantly higher chlorophyll index than either of the other two treatments (indicating greenness level).

Another key property to make your soil function properly in the first place is the presence of soil microbes in the soil. Alfalfa pellets give your soil a healthy boost of organic matter and enhance your beneficial soil microbe populations (a soc-cer field trial by the City of Winnipeg showed fields treated with alfalfa pellets boosted microbe levels 150% compared to untreated fields where microbe populations had dropped 95% at the same stage of their life cycle).3 This also helps to improve the overall life structure of your soil and its ability to support growth.

Like synthetics, no natural option is entirely perfect. Milor-ganite is banned by some municipalities, due to its origin as human waste and it cannot be certified organic. Compost can raise the soil salt content too high and quality can be inconsistent. Corn gluten meal is only effective for weed control if applied at the exact right time and alfalfa pellets require moisture for break down. Humic acid and biochar are typically quite expensive, while manure and fish meal are odorous and unpleasant to handle. Despite these issues,

ORGANIC FERTILIZER

organic products are a nice option for parks staff to use. They typically do not require an operator’s license, enabling summer students to apply them. This feature also means that you don’t have to close off parks to public use after the product has been applied. Additionally, because of the lower-N nature of most organics, the grass doesn’t get that rapid vertical growth requiring frequent mowing (and therefore more labour and higher costs) immediately after application. These factors have led many municipalities on the prairies to examine organic options as part of their flower or green space program.

Danielle BarrettWestern Alfalfa Milling Co. Ltd.1 Understanding Turf Management, Sheard R.W. Page 652 The Evaluation of Natural Source Fertilizers on Kentucky Bluegrass, Olds College, Anderson M.A. and Ross, J.B.3 A Study on the Effect of an Alfalfa Pellet Application as Part of an Athletic Field Maintenance Program, Thordarson K. City of Winnipeg 2007.

20-20-20. 46-0-0. These are just a couple of the many options for macro mineral concentrations for typical fertilizers used for sports fields and park maintenance each year. However, while nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium are important, these blends overlook other micro minerals that your grass so desperately requires such as iron, calcium and magnesium.

GRANTS AND FUNDING

14 MARCH 2013

Western Alfalfa Milling Co. Ltd. is pleased to offer:

Alfalfa Green Certified Organic Fertilizer Safe for children and pets

(nontoxic and safe to handle) Weed free - slow release & broad based

nutrient packed pellets Locally grown Saskatchewan product Non-leaching and without runoff Will not contaminate groundwater,

streams, lakes or wells Promotes horizontal grass growth,

not vertical equals less mowing Non-corrosive to equipment and easy to apply

Versatile for use on lawns, trees, shrubs, flower beds and flower pots

Already in use in many municipalities across Saskatchewan

Competitively priced

Western Alfalfa Milling Company Ltd. PO Box 568, Norquay, SK S0A 2V0

Phone 306-594-2362 or toll-free 866-926-2583, www.alfalfagreen.ca dvbarrett@wamcoltd.ca

LOTTERY LINGOPrince Albert Resident Wins $50,000

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Derek Gasmo won $50,000 PAYDAY.

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The ticket was purchased at South Hill Mall, 2995 - 2nd Avenue West, Prince Albert.

HOT DICE Winners in Saskatoon!

Shelly Berger & Dean Bazowski won $10,000 on HOT DICE.

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The ticket was purchased at Fairhaven Grease & Gas, 3419 - 22nd Street West, Saskatoon.

SELF-GUIDED TOUR WALKS

One recently enhanced pathway and educational experience is the new self-guided tour of the Habitat Conservation Area – one of Wascana Centre’s hidden gems. This site, tucked away at the base of Wascana Hill, sits across Wascana Creek from the University of Regina.

The newly designed brochure guides visitors through the Habitat Conservation Area (HCA), a 23 acres site that has been specifically set aside for wildlife. Newly upgraded trail markers around the path will correspond with information in the self-guided brochure. Stalk along the bank of two of the dugouts to sneak a glimpse at up to 21 Western Painted Turtles basking along the bank or listen to the calls of soras, marsh wrens, common yellowthroats and yellow-headed blackbirds as they proclaim their territories in their forest of cattails. You can also learn more about the remnant native prairie that exists in part of the HCA, where you can find grass and forbs species like green needlegrass, western wheatgrass and prairie coneflower. Muskrats, mink, beaver and red fox are all seen in this area regularly.

The HCA offers a great way to experience what nature has to offer right in the middle of the city! In addition, this space

With over 9 km of natural and paved paths winding around Wascana Centre’s 2,000 acres of land, there are many opportunities for visitors and Regina resi-dents to explore Wascana!

is utilized by the Wascana Junior Naturalist Program, Wings Over Wascana Nature Festival, Wascana’s school interpre-tive program, as well as other school group visits and the Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) research program.

But the new HCA self-guided tour is not the only way to discover Wascana Centre. There are an additional eight self-guided tours that will have you criss-crossing the park. Walk 1 begins at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum and leads you along Albert Street and past Speakers’ Corner. The other seven walks throughout Wascana Centre highlight the Legis-lative Building, Goosehill and Candy Cane Parks, Wascana Hill, as well as the University of Regina Campus. There are numerous monuments, playgrounds, overlooks and artwork to see! These self-guided tours provide park users with a wonderful way to learn more about the Centre. By the time you’re done, we hope you’ll find that Wascana Centre is a place for you!

For a digital copy of the self-guided brochure to the HCA or information on Wascana’s other walks and sites, visit www.wascana.ca.

MARCH 2013 15

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Barr Ryder Architects are pleased to have worked with a variety of municipalities on the design of more than 70 recreational projects throughout Western Canada. As leaders in the design of recreation facilities, Barr Ryder provides a full range of associated professional services that include:

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