A dedicated team of 66 volunteers came together earlier this month to help Arkansans access the state’s public lands by clearing trails and removing debris at seven wildlife management areas (WMAs) managed by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). The volunteer efforts, carried out on Saturday, September 12, addressed litter, blocked boat lanes, and mobility-impaired access trails.
The initiative is part of an expanding program launched by the AGFC in response to input from hunters who regularly use these spaces. Unlike prior small-scale cleanups coordinated individually with WMA managers, the volunteer workday program organizes efforts for maximum impact on specific tasks. This year, projects were conducted across seven WMAs: Dave Donaldson Black River, Big Lake, Henry Gray Hurricane Lake, Holland Bottoms, Mike Freeze Wattensaw, George H. Dunklin Jr. Bayou Meto, and Rick Evans Grandview Prairie.
David Luker, assistant chief of wildlife management for the AGFC, highlighted the value of these events. “Some of these efforts involve clearing boat lanes, while others focus on removing old fences or debris that obstructs access and hinders certain management activities, like prescribed fires,” Luker said. “It really comes down to specific needs and what volunteers can accomplish in one day.” He added that litter removal, particularly at campgrounds and parking areas, can present a major challenge on some lands due to illegal dumping.
The turnout varied across locations, with the Big Lake WMA in northeast Arkansas drawing the largest group. Twenty-four volunteers joined AGFC staff to clear boat lanes and trails, a contribution that Luker said will benefit hundreds of hunters in the seasons to come. “Storms throughout the year can cause trees and branches to block lanes,” Luker explained. “With AGFC staff stretched thin across multiple WMAs, focusing on habitat improvements often takes priority over access. These volunteer efforts really help us make progress.” Luker expressed gratitude to all participants for their time and hard work.
In addition to the statewide efforts, volunteers will have another opportunity to make an impact later this month. The sixth annual Pine Tree Wildlife Demonstration Area Cleanup is scheduled for Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Colt, St. Francis County. Johnny Waldrup, regional wildlife supervisor for the AGFC’s Brinkley Regional Office, encouraged locals to join the event, which is organized by area sportsmen. “This is a great way to give back to the public spaces we all enjoy, and for high school students, it’s an excellent opportunity to earn volunteer service hours needed for graduation,” Waldrup said. Volunteers will receive trash bags and assignments at the station office in Colt before cleaning until noon. The event concludes with lunch and drinks for all participants.
For additional details about the Pine Tree cleanup, contact Michael Burns at 870-317-4703.