ENC features new events in January
The Environmental Nature Center (ENC) and the ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary have new opportunities in January – with something for everyone. If you’re not looking for a structured activity, come join a quiet walk on the trails or bring a sustainably packed picnic. They’re open for everyone on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit https://events.encenter.org/ to register for a scheduled program.
Click on photo for a larger image
Photos courtesy of ENC
Bioregional Herbalist William Broen will lead a Native Plant Uses Walk at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary on January 11
Native Plant Uses Walk
Join a Native Plant Uses Walk at the ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary, led by Bioregional Herbalist William Broen on Saturday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Discover the traditional and modern uses of California plants, explore how their survival tactics influence their applications and learn how to connect with plants through your senses. Broen will also share plant folklore and other fascinating insights during this interactive walk. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to deepen your knowledge of California’s native flora. Go here for more information and to sign up.
Native Plant Sale
ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary is holding a Native Plant Sale on Saturday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Discover the beauty and benefits of locally native plants. Native plants provide crucial habitat for pollinators, birds and other wildlife, require less water and maintenance, and contribute to the preservation of California’s unique biodiversity. By incorporating native plants into your garden, you can reduce water consumption by up to 60% and help create a haven for songbirds, butterflies, bees and more. Learn more here.
Click on photo for a larger image
Photos courtesy of ENC
Desiree Romero will lead Nature Bathing Walks
Nature Bathing Walks
Begin the year by prioritizing your well-being with a Nature Bathing Walk. Join Certified Nature Therapy Guide Desiree Romero for a serene, guided experience through the ENC on Saturday, Jan. 18 from 8-10 a.m. This gentle walk includes moments of mindfulness, activities to connect with nature, and ends with tea featuring local herbs and honey. Discover the health benefits of slowing down and immersing yourself in nature – boost your immune system, quiet your mind and nurture your senses. Pre-registration is required, so go here to sign up.
Click on photo for a larger image
Bioregional Herbalist William Broen will lead a Native Plant Uses
Winter Art Workshop
Join artist and naturalist Julie Williams for a hands-on winter art workshop and create your own phenology wheel – an illustrated circular calendar that captures seasonal changes in the natural world on Saturday, Jan. 25 from 10-11:30 a.m. Phenology is the study of nature’s recurring events, and designing your wheel offers a creative way to explore and document wildlife activity, plant growth, celestial events and weather patterns throughout the year. Find artistic inspiration in nature while gaining a deeper awareness of its cycles. Sign up here.
Click on photo for a larger image
Join Naturalist Ashley Nick for a storytime adventure followed by hands-on activities at Reading in the Redwoods
Reading in the Redwoods
Spend a peaceful morning with your family under the towering redwoods. Join Naturalist Ashley Nick for a storytime adventure followed by hands-on activities inspired by the book’s theme on Saturday, Jan. 25 from 10-11:30 a.m. Enjoy a short hike, creative exploration and the magic of nature. Bring a blanket or towel for a cozy experience, and get ready for a memorable morning outdoors. Cost: $5/child for pre-registered members; $7/child for pre-registered non-members and adults are free. Pre-registration is required. For details, go here.
Click on photo for a larger image
Enjoy a Sunday morning bird walk at ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary on January 26
Early Bird Sunday at Tucker
Enjoy a Sunday morning bird walk at ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary on January 26 from 8-9:30 a.m. This program is designed for beginning and intermediate birders, but all levels and all ages are welcome. Their naturalist guide will give a brief introduction on the use of binoculars and bird identification, followed by a birding tour of the oak woodland, riparian, coastal sage scrub and chaparral native habitats. Meet in front of the museum. RSVP is required, so go here.
Click on photo for a larger image
Teen Volunteer Opportunities await…
Teen Volunteer Opportunities
Presidents Week Camp: February 17-21
Tucker Spring Camp: March 31-April 4
ENC Spring Break Camp: April 7-11
High school students with a passion for working with children can apply to become Leaders in Training (LiTs) for ENC’s Nature Camps. This volunteer position is perfect for building leadership skills and gaining valuable experience for resumes and college applications. Applicants must complete an interview and attend mandatory training to be eligible. Learn more here.
Environmental Nature Center is located at 1601 E. 16th St., Newport Beach. Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 29322 Modjeska Canyon, Silverado. For more information, visit http://encenter.org.









