This is in response to Hans C. Ullman’s ramblings in a letter to the editor headlined Trees aren't always our friends.
I am not certain whether he is for or against trees, however, the following sentence warrants a response: “In Saskatchewan, when they find one, they apparently put a fence around it and call it a provincial park.”Unfortunately, this remark discredits the entire letter and the use of the word “apparently” reveals that the writer has never dipped a toe into Saskatchewan.
Was this merely an opportunity to repeat thoughtless, idle banter? Possibly a feeble attempt at humour? There are two excellent options to consider with respect to our neighbours to the east.
Option No. 1 – Should you ever, by some misfortune, have to travel across Saskatchewan, this is the best option for you.
If you begin by driving straight south of Mountain View County, you will come to a transcontinental highway, also known as Highway 1. You may have heard of it.
Turn left. The highway is straight and flat with four lanes. By design, it was built across the path of least resistance.
To avoid the scenery along the way (trees, sloughs, birds, fields of crops – often blue flax and yellow canola blooming side by side) wear your blinders and drive as quickly as you dare. You will also be spared seeing the beautifully treed shelterbelts surrounding every homestead. Godspeed!
(As most people know, in 1902 a tree nursery was inaugurated in south Saskatchewan that continues to supply millions of trees annually to farmers in all three Prairie provinces.)
Option No. 2 – For any open-minded person who loves to explore, take a drive east into Saskatchewan; any highway will do.
You will see beauty that takes your breath away. National, provincial and private parks criss-cross the province from top to bottom, side to side, with forests, ranges of hills and valleys, lakes and rivers.
Any outdoor activity you can dream or wish for is there. Tourism in Saskatchewan is a year-round adventure and the people? Warm and welcoming. Enjoy.
Paulette Shoemaker,
Mountain View County
