Forestry Farm and Zoo
1903 Forestry Farm Park Drive
Ross developed the Shelter Belt Tree Program at Indian Head Saskatchewan in 1901. It operated until 2013 and distributed over 618 million trees to farmers across the prairies transforming the landscape with the beneficial shelter belts and farmstead plantings we see today.
To keep up with the demand from incoming settlers during the early to mid 1900's the Sutherland Forestry Station was started in 1913 to expand the capacity of tree production for the three prairie provinces. In 52 years of production 147 million trees were distributed from the Sutherland site to help combat drought and soil erosion.
James McLean, Superintendent 1913-1942, oversaw the layout and development of the site, while Les Kerr, Superintendent 1942-1966, continued this vision but also did extensive breeding work with ornamental trees and shrubs. Some of his introductions are still available today from commercial nurseries and three of these can be found in the Heritage Rose Garden at the park, 'Goldenlocks' elder, 'Sutherland Golden' elder, and 'Fuchsia Girl' crabapple.
In 1966 the government consolidated operations to Indian Head. 144 acres of the Sutherland's Nursery's beautifully landscaped site was turned over to the City of Saskatoon for a park, which since 1972 also housed the zoo. Many of the century plus tree plantings still exist.
The Forestry Farm Park and Zoo has been the scene of many family picnics, special events, and provided animal and horticultural education programs. It was designated a National Historic site in 1991 for its important horticultural contribution to the city and provinces.
For a self guided walking tour view walkinthepark.pdf at www.fffh.ca/upcoming-events
For further reference see: Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo - A Photographic History, by Sara Williams.