Notes about your surroundings

Opinion Gauge--The public is invited to discuss options for expanded public access in areas of the Bolsa Chica lowlands proposed for fish and wildlife habitat restoration. A session is planned from 3 to 6 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Huntington Beach Central Library, 7111 Talbert Ave., and again from 7 to 10 p.m. This is the fourth in a series of discussions presented by the Bolsa Chica Wetlands Steering Committee and is expected to be the last before the environmental review process starts. For information, call Melanie Denninger, (510) 286-4180.

Paddle Deal--Take a twilight canoe tour of the Back Bay on Oct. 18, guided by the Upper Newport Bay Naturalists and the Boy Scouts of America. A campfire program called “Keepers of the Shore” and a hot dog roast at Shellmaker Island are included. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Cost is $5 per person; free for children under 10. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited to 60 people. Shellmaker Island is off Backbay Drive in Newport Beach. Reservations: (714) 642-5031.