JONESBORO, AR — Arkansas State University’s Heritage Sites office has announced the third and final round of public meetings concerning the proposed Arkansas Delta National Heritage Area (NHA). Community members, local leaders, and other interested individuals are encouraged to attend to share their input on the initiative.
The meetings, scheduled for Wednesday through Friday, Nov. 4–6, will review findings and recommendations from the draft feasibility study. Attendees will have the opportunity to join discussions and provide feedback before the study is finalized. Each session will present the same information, and individuals can select the location most convenient for them.
The study evaluates the potential for a National Heritage Area encompassing 17 counties in eastern Arkansas. It has been developed through historical research, a review of existing heritage resources, and public input gathered during site visits, surveys, stakeholder interviews, and earlier public meetings. According to Dr. Adam Long, executive director of Arkansas State University’s Heritage Sites, community engagement has been integral to the process.
“The knowledge and perspectives shared by people across the Delta have helped shape the study,” said Long. “As we approach its completion, we want to give communities another opportunity to review the findings, discuss the recommendations, and help ensure that the final study reflects the region’s heritage and aspirations.”
National Heritage Areas are congressionally designated regions where natural, cultural, and historic resources combine to tell nationally significant stories. These areas are locally managed through collaborations that promote historic preservation, heritage tourism, conservation, and community development. Designation by Congress is contingent upon a recommendation from the National Park Service after completion of a feasibility study.
Conducted on behalf of A-State Heritage Sites by Point Heritage Development Consulting, with funding from the Delta Regional Authority, the draft study identifies significant stories and resources that connect communities across the Arkansas Delta. It also proposes recommendations for potential boundaries, organizational structure, and management strategies for the NHA.
Two prior rounds of public meetings introduced the NHA concept and gathered input from the community. In the first round, participants helped identify unique stories and places that define the Arkansas Delta. In the second round, developing findings were shared for further discussion, with participants weighing in on regional priorities and opportunities.
The upcoming meetings are free and open to all. Attendance at earlier meetings is not a requirement. For additional details, Dr. Long can be contacted at 870-972-2803 or by email at adamlong@AState.edu.