Activity Cards

The primary goal of the Butterfly Enhancement Project is to stabilize or improve populations of 10 butterfly species that are in decline. These 10 butterfly species in decline were identified using data collected from the Limestone Butterfly Count. A shortage of floral resources (nectar and larval host plants) may be a factor in this decline. In order to address this problem, 11 habitat islands were created within Limestone Canyon to become hotspots of floral and invertebrate diversity and to increase overall butterfly species richness and abundance.

Volunteers will survey the 11 enhancement plots along with 10 control plots using the survey123 app to record all plants and butterfly species that occur in each plot. Volunteers may use their own phones or check out a phone from IRC to do the survey. New plants species are often added to the plant list on survey, and updates to the survey in survey123 should be downloaded before the event begins. A pdf map of the plots can be downloaded onto the Avenza Maps app – it embedded location data and GPS to find your position in relation to the plots in real time.

Due to the plots being off trail, wearing snake chaps is recommended and will be provided by IRC staff.

*Please note that this program is on paved trails. 

Join OC Parks for an interpretive bike ride around Upper Newport Bay! Participants will have the opportunity to get their heart rate up and pedal around the Bay, all while learning about local ecology and history.

This moderately-paced ride will cover a 10 mile section of the Back Bay Loop trail over the course of 2 and a half hours. We will remain on the paved portion of the trail and will have interpretative stops along the way.

Participants must provide their own bike and helmet. E-bikes are welcome. Please note that the pace and talking points are geared towards individuals aged 14 and up. Minors must have a parent/guardian present at all times.

Distance: 10 miles
Elevation Change: 155 feet

Advance registration required. The parking and program are free. Rain or adverse weather will cancel the event.

Advance registration is REQUIRED. Registration opens one week prior to the program.

Spending time outside is one of the best ways to nurture curiosity and instill a love of the natural world. Bring your young ones and join OC Parks staff to learn all about the Newport Back Bay.

Our Wild Tales program is offered every Friday from 10:00-11:00am and includes a story time, an age-appropriate hike, and a themed craft. Each week will focus on a different topic that encourages young ones to learn about the outdoors.

The program begins at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. Program content is tailored for the preschool level (ages 2-5), but all are welcome to attend. Minors under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult guardian. Please wear comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes. Additionally, please note that the hiking portion of the program occurs on a non-stroller friendly trail.

Program and parking are free.

Adverse weather conditions may move the program indoors or cancel it.