ENVIRONMENT / Notes about your surroundings

Wing Trip--A free guided bird tour Saturday of the constructed wetlands behind Prado Dam in Riverside County offers the chance to see species such as herons, egrets, raptors and perhaps a golden eagle or least Bell’s vireo. The three-mile walk is led by an environmental expert from the Orange County Water District. Within the 2,150 acres owned by the district are nearly 465 acres of wetlands which provide a habitat for birds as well as help reduce nitrogen levels in Santa Ana River water. The tour is given from 7 to 11 a.m. Upcoming dates are April 17 and May 22. A map and directions will be given when reservations are made by calling (714) 378-3219.

Flower Stop--Take time to admire the wildflowers at the Rancho Mission Viejo Land Conservancy and help raise money for its programs. The “Wildflower Wander” fund-raiser takes place on March 27 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. A naturalist will guide visitors through the hills and canyons of the reserve, five miles east of San Juan Capistrano. Cost is $22 per person, which includes a T-shirt. Bring lunch and plenty of water, and wear a hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Reservations: (949) 489-9778.

Camera Action--View California’s varied plant communities and regions, from low desert through valleys and foothills to subalpine high country, via photographs and a program given at the meeting Thursday of the California Native Plant Society, Orange County chapter. It begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Irvine Ranch Water District headquarters, 15600 Sand Canyon Ave., Irvine. Free. Celia Kutcher, (714) 278-4795.

* Send items for consideration to Vicky Clepper, The Times Orange County, 1375 Sunflower Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Fax: (714) 966-4562.