Designing a Future for Arkansas Wildlife
Joe Neal
Arkansas is a study in contrasts, with dramatic mountains in the Ouachitas, vast alluvial plains in the Mississippi River delta, and deep rich hollows in the Boston and Ozark Mountains.
The Arkansas wildlife action plan addresses the needs of 369 species of greatest conservation need in the context of 45 terrestrial habitats and 18 aquatic habitats across seven ecoregions in Arkansas. The action plan identifies 18 categories of threats facing wildlife, ranging from habitat fragmentation to groundwater depletion. The action plan is organized in a database so that it can be easily updated and adapted.
Working Together for Arkansas's Fish and Wildlife
Ethan Inlander, TNC
Arkansans take wildlife matters seriously: over 85 percent of the public in a recent poll declared that they are concerned or very concerned about the impacts of human activity on wildlife.
Partnerships will be crucial to the Arkansas wildlife action plan, and efforts and plans of agencies and conservation organizations can be integrated to work together and create new efficiencies. The action plan will coordinate on-the-ground conservation research and work from diverse funding sources, including State Wildlife Grants, the Farm Bill and other programs.
Resources and Information
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
