The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission announced on April 13 that its commissioners will meet on April 15 and 16 to discuss a range of business items. The meetings are scheduled to take place at the University of Arkansas at Monticello Student Success Center, Room #102, unless otherwise stated.
These meetings are significant as they allow the commission to address regulations, property management, outreach efforts, personnel matters, and updates on wildlife programs. They also provide an opportunity for public participation in decisions affecting natural resources in Arkansas.
The agenda for Wednesday, April 15 includes committee discussions on black bear movement research by Dr. Ellery Lassiter, a Lake Monticello update from Ryan Mozisek, and information about the Legacy Lunker Program presented by Will Lancett. Action items will focus on biennial regulations approval with input from Luke Naylor and Tommy Laird. The Budget and Property Management Committee is set to review financial status reports with Emily Shumate and discuss upcoming technology purchases with Spencer Griffith. Acquisition proposals concerning Cossatot River (Weyerhaeuser), Grandview Prairie WMA (Routon Family Partnership), as well as a divestiture at Faulkner Lake will be presented by Stephen Roach.
Other sessions include discussion of Act 229 Curriculum led by Jose Jimenez in the Public Outreach Committee, legal matters addressed by John Marks in Personnel Governance and Enforcement Committee, fishing activities at Lake Monticello in the afternoon, followed by a fish fry event later that evening.
On Thursday morning, April 16, after prayer and pledge of allegiance proceedings commence with approval of the agenda and prior meeting notes. Delegations from Peggy Doss (Chancellor – University of Arkansas at Monticello) and Deke Whitbeck (President – Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation) are expected. Presentations will cover habitat suitability for mallards wintering in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley (Alyssa Tomb) along with an update on the black bear program from Spencer Daniels.
The commission plans further action regarding regulations approval as well as acquisition or divestiture projects previously discussed. Time is also allotted for new business or executive session if necessary before adjournment.
Individuals requiring accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act are encouraged to contact AGFC’s ADA Coordinator ahead of time so arrangements can be made.
