About the Garden

Our Prairie Habitat Garden is an innovative plan that will contribute to the University of Saskatchewan's historical campus by transforming the close proximity to the Education College building from an underused and deteriorating asset to a thriving environmentally based teaching resource. This project ensures the ecological integrity of our natural and working lands while providing an exceptional educational opportunity for pre-service teachers, teachers, schools, and the general public to learn about preserving and recreating natural ecosystems. Concurrent with the building of this garden, local elementary and high schools will build prairie habitat gardens on their schools' properties. These natural habitat gardens should inspire visitors to create their own habitat gardens.

Incorporating First Nations perspectives in the design elements of the garden (and related curriculum) increases understanding and awareness of Saskatchewan's cultural heritage. The health of our natural and working lands is threatened and subject to increasing pressure from industrial, urban and agro-industrial development. Less than 20% of Saskatchewan's native prairie remains. First Nations culture is also endangered. We hope this garden will change people's understanding of beauty and culture. Our goal is to preserve biodiversity, support sustainable working lands and nurture community. We are actively seeking opportunities for ongoing dialogue, collaborative learning and reflection; and inspiring people and communities to contribute to positive change.

The College envisions a goal of enabling students, volunteers and organizations to cultivate long-term solutions that benefit both land and people. Our Prairie Habitat Garden will benefit many generations to come.

Project Size and Setting:

Location – The natural habitat garden will be located in close proximity to the College of Education on the University of Saskatchewan campus in the City of Saskatoon. It is on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River.