Outdoors: March 11

@BR LabelBW:ON THE HORIZON

Kayaking: various locations

The American Littoral Society offers guided kayak tours in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Reservations are required. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip. A short training session will be provided prior to the trip. Participants are requested to bring insect repellent, sunscreen and water. For more information and launch locations, contact John Sarkozy at 966-7308.

n Historic Village of Cortez and “The Kitchen” Preserve, Bradenton, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. March 11. Cost: $25 members, $30 nonmembers.

n Little Sarasota Bay to Palmer Point, 9 a.m.-noon March 15. Cost: $20 members, $25 nonmembers.

Wild Florida 101 “Ghosts of the Past”: Rye Preserve, Parish

The Manatee County Natural Resources Department will host a special Wild Florida 101 “Ghosts of the Past,” 6-8 p.m. March 12. Participants will take a flashlight hike through the woods at night to learn about the historical Rye Preserve settlement and celebrate the creatures of the night such as snakes, spiders and slugs. This adult-only program will end with a campfire marshmallow roast. The program is suitable for participants ages 16 and older. Reservations are required. Admission: free. Information: 742-5757, ext. 5 or e-mail Melissa.nell@mymanatee.org.

Guided Wagon Tours: Robinson Preserve, Bradenton

Manatee County Natural Resources Department is hosting two one-hour daytime wagon trips through Robinson Preserve 2-3:30 p.m. March 13 and 9-10:30 a.m. March 27. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the preserve’s history, resident wildlife and flowers and visit the 40-foot observation tower. A fee of $3 per adult and $2 per child. The tours are suitable for participants of all ages. Reservations are required. Information: 742-57567, ext. 1 or e-mail Melissa.nell@mymanatee.org.

Dog Days at DeSoto: DeSoto National Memorial, 8300 De Soto Memorial Hwy., Bradenton

DeSoto National Memorial will host Dog Days at DeSoto 10 a.m.-3 p.m. March 13. Visitors are encouraged to leash up their dogs for a day filled with activities, demonstrations and information promoting safe and healthy dogs. Visitors interested in adopting dogs can visit with representatives from several local animal services. There will be food and refreshments available for purchase. All events and activities are free. Information: 792-0458 or visit www.nps.gov/deso.

Wildlife Weekend: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way, St. Petersburg

The Sixth Annual Wildlife Weekend at Boyd Hill Preserve will be 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 13-14 featuring environmental and wildlife exhibits including plants, birds, bats, butterflies and turtles, interpretive walks and tram rides, nature related vendors, kid’s crafts, food and more. Admission: free. Information: (727) 893-7326.

“Pooch Party” Dog Walk: Robinson Preserve, Bradenton

Manatee County Natural Resources Department will host a special “Pooch Party” dog walk 5:30-6:30 p.m. March 16. Participants are invited to bring their four-legged furry friend for a short evening walk through the preserve, highlighting the locations’ habitats, wildlife, and plants. Pets must be leashed and will not be allowed to run loose. Participants will be required to help keep these natural lands clean by removing their dog’s droppings. Reservations are required. Information: 742-5757, ext. 8.