Andrew Keeler, 1, left, holds a pine cone during a short hike at South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve.-World Photo by Alex Powers

Fall is here at the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve.

* The fall migration is just getting started, and South Slough birders are ready to add some more species to their lists. An interpreter will lead a morning of Birding at South Slough from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 6.  Binoculars, spotting scopes and field guides will be provided. The cost is $1 per birder.

*An art opening for local artist Curt Hitch will be held from 1 to 3 p.m.  Saturday, Sept. 6, at the South Slough Interpretive Center. Hitch will be on hand to meet visitors and discuss his pieces. Refreshments will be served.

* Paddline the Estuary will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12. Participants should bring a kayak or canoe, paddle, life jacket, snacks and water, and meet at the South Slough Interpretive Center. The cost is $15 per boat. Advance registration is required; there is an eight-boat limit.  Trips may be cancelled up to launch time due to weather conditions.

* More than 3.5 miles of trails are open from dawn until dusk daily. 

Registration is required for all programs. For more information and to register, call 888-5558. The South Slough Interpretive Center, four miles south of Charleston on Seven Devils Road, is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily during the summer. For more information, visit the Web site at  http://www.southsloughestuary.org.