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The environmental education center named in honor of Portola Valley philanthropists and environmentalists Bill and Jean Lane has its grand opening from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 5, at the Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve at the northern border of Woodside along Interstate 280.

Speakers will include Ms. Lane, San Mateo County Supervisor Carole Groom, members of the San Mateo County Parks Foundation, and Friends of Edgewood Natural Preserve.

The $2.5 million center explores the rarified flora and fauna of Edgewood's serpentine soil -- soil derived from rocks that results in a dearth of common nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus and a high concentration of heavy metals.

The one-square-mile park is home to more than 500 plant species and 70 species of birds, the parks foundation said. Edgewood's rare plants include the fountain thistle and the San Mateo thornmint; among the rare animals are the bay checkerspot butterfly; the blind harvestman, a tiny spider-like creature; and the western bluebird.

The park entrance is located off of Edgewood Road approximately a half mile east of I-280. Take the eastbound exit for Edgewood Road.

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