Yorath Island facts for kids
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | R. M. Corman Park, Saskatchewan |
| Coordinates | 52°05′00″N 106°43′02″W / 52.08333°N 106.71722°W |
| Area | 0.236 sq mi (0.61 km2) |
| Administration | |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
Yorath Island is a small piece of land in the South Saskatchewan River. It is located just outside the city of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. The island is about 151 acres (61 hectares) in size.
This island is quite new. It did not exist when the area was first mapped in 1903. The Meewasin Valley Authority helps manage Yorath Island. You cannot reach the island by car. However, you can see it from the Maple Grove area nearby.
How Yorath Island Got Its Name
Yorath Island is named after Christopher J. Yorath. He became the commissioner of Saskatoon in 1913. A commissioner is like a city manager. They help plan how a city grows.
Christopher Yorath created an important plan in 1913. This plan suggested how Saskatoon should develop. It showed where homes and roads could be built in the future. He also came up with the idea of a "City Encircling Boulevard." This was a plan for a big road that would go all around the city.
In 2013, this idea finally came true. The Circle Drive freeway project was finished. It is interesting that Yorath's original plan suggested this road would cross where Yorath Island is now. But the final Circle Drive passes north of the island. The island itself is mostly natural. It only has power lines crossing its northern tip.
Nature on Yorath Island
Yorath Island is special because of its trees. It has one of the farthest north cottonwood forests in North America. Cottonwood trees are known for their fluffy seeds.
The island is also home to many other plants. You can find 23 different types of shrubs there. It is also a great place for wildlife. Many animals live on the island. These include the Cooper's Hawk, coyotes, and red foxes. You might also spot river otters, porcupines, beavers, and deer. It is a busy place for nature!
