Families invited to explore Malibu Lagoon

Mountains Restoration Trust will sponsor a threehour family field trip starting at 9:30 a.m. Sat., Aug. 11 at Malibu Lagoon State Beach where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean.

The trip is part of the trust's Youth Naturalist Program and focuses on the wonders of nature's wetlands, which contain more living species per acre than a rain forest.

Youth program director Susan Haugland will teach participants about the wetland's ecosystem and the importance of preserving it.

The cost is $15 for youths ages 7 to 12. Parents and younger siblings are free. Families should bring binoculars if they have them, lunch and water.

Preregistration is required to participate and obtain a free parking pass. Call (818) 591-1701, ext. 181.

Mountains Restoration Trust is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the Santa Monica Mountains and providing naturerelated educational and recreational programs.

For information, go online to www.mountainstrust.org.