University of Saskatchewan
IN-4: Innovation 4

Prairie Habitat Garden Established by the College of Education, the Prairie Habitat Garden has transformed an underutilized area adjacent to the Education Building to a thriving environmentally-based teaching resource. The garden features native plants from all Saskatchewan bio-regions and provides exceptional educational opportunities for pre-service teachers, in-service teachers, schools, and the general public to learn about preserving and recreating natural ecosystems. It is anticipated that this natural habitat garden will inspire both future teachers and other visitors to create their own habitat gardens. Incorporating First Nations perspectives in the design elements of the garden (and related curriculum) reinforces understanding and awareness of the linkages between Saskatchewan's natural heritage and 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. We hope this garden will change people's understanding of beauty and culture. The goal is to inspire action that preserves biodiversity, supports sustainable working lands and nurtures community. Accordingly, opportunities for ongoing dialogue, collaborative learning and reflection, and inspiring people and communities to contribute to positive change are constantly being pursued. The garden was conceptualized by University of Saskatchewan pre-service Education students. They developed the plan and sought out funding. The plan was then implemented by faculty and staff at College of Education and Ground staff from the Facilities Management Division. In addition to engaging pre-service teachers and in-service teachers, the Prairie Habitat Garden is engaging groups as diverse as: • children from the University of Saskatchewan’s Ecology Camps for Kids • children from the University of Saskatchewan daycare program • youth from Saskatoon’s Indian and Métis Friendship Centre, including elders who joined the group to speak about the medicine wheel. • school children from across Saskatoon • U of S faculty and staff from other colleges and departments