The final month of 2025 provided a rich tapestry of life in Saskatoon, as documented through the lens of Saskatoon StarPhoenix photographer Michelle Berg. From the frosty trails along the river to the depths of a new potash mine and the spirited action of a Grand Slam curling event, December offered a diverse look at community, industry, and seasonal tradition.
Community and Climate: From Frosty Trails to Food Bank Pressures
The month began with a quintessential Saskatchewan winter scene on December 3. A lone commuter navigated a riverside trail, surrounded by trees beautifully encased in hoarfrost along the South Saskatchewan River, showcasing the serene yet harsh beauty of the season.
Just days later, on December 6, the focus shifted to a pressing community concern. Students from multiple local high schools were recognized for collecting thousands of items for the Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre. The organization's executive director issued a stark warning, noting that expected rises in food costs would increase pressure on families. This concern was underscored by a projection from the latest Food Price Report, which estimated a family of four would pay $994.63 more for food in 2026.
By December 10, preparations for winter recreation were in full swing. An employee of the Meewasin Valley Authority was seen flooding the Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink at Nutrien Plaza, adjacent to the historic Delta Bessborough Hotel. This popular community rink was scheduled to open to the public the following day.
A Glimpse into the Future: Inside the BHP Jansen Potash Mine
One of the most significant features of the month was an exclusive tour of the BHP Group's massive new potash mine near Jansen, provided by General Manager Graham Reynolds on December 13. Described as a futuristic, 30-storey operation, the facility is becoming a small city unto itself.
The tour revealed astonishing details: the camp serves approximately 4,000 meals daily and boasts amenities like weight rooms, a basketball court, and a walking oval for its workforce. With about 2,500 employees on site, one worker likened the construction site to the 13th largest town in Saskatchewan by population.
Despite being at least 23 per cent over budget, the project is now on track for a mid-2027 startup. The mine will feature advanced technology, including robots that will load potash onto train cars. Below ground, about 150 employees are constructing the extensive underground tunnel network, while a large muster room stands ready with emergency oxygen and supplies for over 100 people.
Seasonal Spirit and Sporting Action
The latter half of December highlighted community sports and holiday cheer. From December 18 to 21, Merlis Belsher Place hosted Grand Slam of Curling action. A photograph captured Saskatoon's Team Kleiter in a moment of intense focus, with Ryan Kleiter positioning his broom to guide a shot swept by teammates Matthew Hall and Trevor Johnstone against Switzerland's Yannick Schwaller.
As Christmas approached, the city lit up. On December 23, seasonal lighting displays adorned Second Avenue downtown, part of a broader municipal effort to enhance the festive atmosphere with lights and decorations.
The human side of the holidays was captured on December 24, as four-year-old Octavia Olney peered curiously at photos on Jennifer Veitch's camera during a Christmas photo session at Veitch's Saskatoon studio, turning potential chaos into cherished holiday cards.
Through these images, December 2025 in Saskatoon is remembered as a month that balanced industrial ambition with community needs, winter's chill with warm gatherings, and athletic precision with festive light.
