Volume 11, Issue 80  |  October 6, 2026


ENC offers new adventures this spring

The Environmental Nature Center (ENC) and the ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary have new opportunities 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

Teen Volunteer Opportunities await…

Teen Volunteer Opportunities

Tucker Spring Camp: Through 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.

Meditation Gathering at ENC

Wednesday, April 2 from 5-6:30 p.m. at the ENC

Take a break from the busyness of life and join an evening of meditation and connection at the Environmental Nature Center. Guided by Sophia, an experienced practitioner, this peaceful gathering includes a guided meditation to calm the mind, and make time for reflection and a closing tea to integrate your experience. Whether you’re new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice, this session offers a welcoming space to relax and reconnect. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now.

Buds & Suds Member Event

Friday, April 11 from 4-6 p.m. at the ENC

ENC members are invited to the spring “Buds & Suds” Native Plant Sale Happy Hour. Enjoy a relaxed evening in the Native Plant Nursery, where you can shop for native plants while sipping on beer, seltzer, or non-alcoholic refreshments. Their horticulture staff will be available to answer questions and help you select the perfect plants for your garden. This exclusive event gives you first pick before the public sale on April 12. Come sip, snack and shop for your next garden favorite! Questions? Email Lori at lori@encenter.org.

Click on photo for a larger image

ENC staff will answer questions and help you select the perfect plants during the Spring Native Plant Sale on April 12

Spring Native Plant Sale

Saturday, April 12 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the ENC

Join the ENC for a Spring Native Plant Sale. Their horticulture staff will be available to answer questions and help you select the perfect plants for your garden. Planting locally native species supports pollinators, conserves water, preserves biodiversity, adds beauty to your garden and helps protect ecosystems. Your purchase supports the ENC and contributes to creating vital habitats for wildlife. Learn more at http://encenter.org.

Click on photo for a larger image

Join Herbalist William Broen for a Native Plant Uses Walk on April 12

Native Plant Uses Walk

Saturday, April 12 from 10-11:30 a.m. at the ENC

Join Herbalist William Broen for an engaging walk exploring the traditional and modern uses of native California plants. Discover how plants’ survival strategies influence their uses and learn through interactive discussions and sensory experiences. William shares his extensive knowledge of botanical medicine in a fun and accessible way. Learn more at http://encenter.org.

Click on photo for a larger image

Join local author J.W. Hutchinson for a family-friendly event featuring his “Napoleon Hummingbird” series on April 13

Storytime & Art Workshop

Sunday, April 13 from 12:30-2 p.m. at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

Join local author J.W. Hutchinson for a family-friendly event featuring his delightful Napoleon Hummingbird series. Enjoy storytime and a watercolor art workshop where kids create hummingbird-inspired art. Each family receives a free book. Register now to secure your spot at http://encenter.org.

Click open story button to continue reading…

Click on photo for a larger image

Acclaimed children’s author Diane Lang will read from “Fur, Feather, Fin – All of Us Are Kin” during an engaging storytime

Storytime & Animal Encounters

Saturday, April 19 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at ENC

Join a special storytelling event with acclaimed children’s author Diane Lang, who will read from Fur, Feather, Fin – All of Us Are Kin, a beautifully written and illustrated book celebrating the connection between all living creatures. Families will enjoy an engaging storytime and meet some of Lang’s animal friends, including a tortoise, snake and tarantula. Afterward, explore the Fire & Nature outreach table, get a signed book and support a great cause. Perfect for ages 4 and up! Register at http://encenter.org.

Earth Day Celebration at Tucker

Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

Come to ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary for an Earth Day celebration focusing on amphibians. Enjoy activities like frog story time, frog crafts, educational games and meet their animal ambassadors. Learn about the vital role amphibians play in ecosystems and their importance as environmental indicators. Learn more at http://encenter.org.

Click on photo for a larger image

Expert naturalist Kimberly Leeds will uncover the hidden language of birds

Early Bird Sundays at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

Sunday, April 27 at 8 a.m. at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

Join a Sunday morning bird walk at ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate birder, their naturalist Julie will help you refine your skills with binoculars and bird identification. Explore diverse native habitats – including oak woodland, riparian areas and coastal sage scrub – while spotting local and migrating birds. Binoculars available to borrow. Learn more at http://encenter.org.

Earth Skills Series: Bird Language

Sunday, April 27 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

Discover the hidden world of bird language in this immersive workshop with expert naturalist Kimberly Leeds. Birds constantly communicate through calls, movements and behaviors, offering insights into their surroundings. Learn to interpret these signals, deepening your awareness and connection to nature. This half-day experience welcomes all skill levels. Bring a Zero Waste lunch and enjoy a peaceful break in nature. Register today and let the birds guide your journey. Learn more at http://encenter.org.

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.


Slide

Send this to a friend