River retreat

If you plan to unplug this weekend and possibly get your hands (or feet) dirty in nature, the Cosumnes River Preserve has a few activities for you. Starting at 5:15 a.m. on Saturday morning, expert birding naturalists need help spotting birds. Their bird survey lasts four to five hours, and sunscreen, bug repellent, food and water are all recommended. Then, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the fun continues with a public-restoration workday, which involves “aquatic-invasive control.” Whatever that may mean, it’s recommended that you wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants and closed-toe shoes. For more information, visit www.cosumnes.org.