AGP Executive Report

Arkansas Outdoors & Hunting: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is taking public comment on a proposed permit-only duck hunting area at St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA near Trumann, covering 4.6 miles of the lower St. Francis River with weekly marker drawings. Health & Safety for Travelers: Tick season is stretching, and tick-bite ER visits are running higher than expected nationwide—another reminder for hikers and campers to check for ticks and protect skin. Family Travel Costs: Gas prices are still a big part of the road-trip math; recent GasBuddy reports show spotty low prices across Arkansas counties for regular, midgrade, premium, E15, E85, and diesel. Retiree-Friendly Arkansas: A new retirement-tax roundup highlights Arkansas as a state that exempts up to $6,000 of certain pension/IRA income and doesn’t tax Social Security. Community & Legacy: Fort Smith energy leader Emon Mahony Jr., a longtime advocate for Lake Fort Smith expansion and conservation efforts, has died at 85.

Tourism Boom: Arkansas welcomed a record 54.3 million visitors in 2025, generating $17.4 billion in economic impact, with a 2% hotel/attraction tax bringing in $27 million that supports local services. Outdoor Travel & Access: State leaders point to strong demand at Arkansas parks across the state, including camping and recreation in Northeast Arkansas and Lake Frierson drawing younger visitors. Fishing Plans: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission released its 2026-27 Arkansas Fishing Guidebook, with key regulation changes effective July 1 and a new streamlined schedule for anglers and hunters. Gas Watch: Fuel prices stayed volatile but mixed locally, with GasBuddy reporting some of the week’s lowest spots in Arkansas counties (including premium and diesel deals in select areas). Family-Friendly Events: Bentonville is set to host the NRA Youth Hunter Educational Challenge July 19-25 at the Benton County Quail Barn, bringing outdoor skills and safety activities for ages 18 and under. Local Sports Tourism: The Arkansas Travelers continue their home stand at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock, keeping baseball fans in town for weekend games.

Tourism Boom: Arkansas welcomed a record 54.3 million visitors in 2025, generating more than $10 billion in spending and $27 million from a 2% hotel/attraction tax, with top earners including Little Rock, Hot Springs and Northwest Arkansas. Outdoor & Fishing Updates: The AGFC released a new 2026-27 Arkansas Fishing Guidebook, with regulation changes now taking effect July 1 (matching hunting rules) and guidebooks available for download to keep anglers up to date. Hunting Events in Bentonville: The NRA Youth Hunter Educational Challenge returns July 19-25 at the Benton County Quail Barn, drawing young competitors and families for hands-on outdoor skills. Local Travel Infrastructure: ARDOT leaders in Jonesboro are pushing a Northeast Arkansas road vision to better connect smaller towns to jobs, healthcare and emergency access. Family-Friendly Weekend Picks: Rogers Mountaineer Hall of Fame announced its 2026 class, and Visit Bentonville highlights the area’s appeal for outdoor travelers. Safety Note: Marked Tree police and Arkansas State Police arrested Kareem Jones in the June 28 crash that killed Officer Trevor Howard.

Tourism Boom: Arkansas hit a record 54.3 million visitors in 2025, bringing $10.2B in spending and $17.4B in total economic impact, with tourism still the state’s second-largest industry. Local Travel Growth: Northeast Arkansas road projects are aimed at better connecting towns and improving travel and economic momentum. Outdoors & Camping: Lake Frierson State Park is drawing repeat visitors, including younger anglers and mountain bikers, as more people seek in-state nature getaways. Visitor-Friendly Ideas: The Heart-N-Hands Extension Homemakers shared a “Traveling Arkansas” itinerary-planning program to help members become more confident Arkansas travelers. Air Access: United Airlines added four new nonstop routes from Newark, including service to Northwest Arkansas (Bentonville/Fayetteville). Safety & Community Impact: Marked Tree police say a suspect has been arrested in the death of Officer Trevor Howard after a crash tied to negligent homicide and related charges. Travel Costs Watch: AAA reports the national gas average rose to about $3.94, with oil-market instability pushing prices higher.

Tourism Numbers: Arkansas set a record in 2025 with 54.3 million visitors, but spending dipped to $10.2 billion (down 0.9% from 2024), according to the state’s annual tourism report. Local Tourism & Events: Cave City’s Chamber is rolling out a free “Sweetest Shuttle” trolley and a new visitor map for the 2026 Watermelon Festival, aiming to help guests explore beyond the grounds. Outdoor Permits & Access: Arkansas Game and Fish is requiring hikers to buy a permit when in Wilderness Management Areas, adding a new step for outdoor plans. Gas Watch: AAA says the national regular gas average rose 10 cents to $3.94, with Strait of Hormuz instability pushing crude toward $80. Safety & Community Health: End Overdose is expanding with a new Hot Springs chapter and is recruiting volunteers for naloxone training and distribution. Sports on the Road: Bryant’s high school football program is finalizing a September matchup in Arkansas against St. Frances Academy of Baltimore.

Tourism Record: Arkansas hit a new high in 2025 with 54.3 million visitors, $10.2 billion in spending, and $26.9 million in state tourism tax collections—supporting about 71,860 jobs, officials said at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Trail & Bike Access: A ribbon-cutting opened the first Southwest Trail segment in Saline County, part of a planned 65-mile connection from Little Rock to Hot Springs, and a new e-bike voucher program could help residents explore the growing network. Air Travel Boost: XNA announced United will add daily nonstop service to Newark starting Sept. 24, giving Northwest Arkansas another direct route to the New York City area and beyond. Local Events: A weekend roundup highlights Arkansas festivals and family-friendly happenings, including farmers markets and community events. Outdoors Permits: Arkansas Game and Fish is rolling out new statewide license/permit requirements for outdoor access, including updates tied to Wilderness Management Areas. Road Trip Reality Check: Gas prices are moving with global oil tensions, with AAA reporting Arkansas regular averaging $3.55 and GasBuddy showing some counties seeing brief lows near $3.25–$3.06.

Air Travel Boost: XNA in Benton County says United will launch daily nonstop flights to Newark Liberty (EWR) starting Sept. 24, adding a new nonstop option to the New York City metro and easier onward connections worldwide. Outdoor & Wildlife Access: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is proposing a permit-only waterfowl hunting setup at the St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA, with permits awarded weekly via random online drawing. State Parks Funding Debate: A Missouri parks funding story compares how states pay for parks—Arkansas stays free at the gate while Missouri relies on a sales tax. Health & Summer Safety: A local expert warns that summertime heat can hit pregnant moms harder, urging hydration and practical drink strategies. Holistic Training Closer to Home: Buena Vista’s Massage and Energy School is gearing up for its first professional massage therapy certification program this September, aiming to reduce the need for students to travel out of the region. Community Recreation Planning: Buena Vista residents weighed in on a Recreation & Outdoor Master Plan and Transportation Master Plan, prioritizing trails, park upgrades, and safety improvements. Family-Friendly Events: Buena Vista’s library and parks calendar highlights silent discos, riverfront music, and concerts in the park.

Road & Travel Updates: I-40 Hernando De Soto Bridge lane closures are extended westbound through July 30, with daily outside-lane work Monday–Thursday (6:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.), plus detour signage via IDriveArkansas.com/ARDOT.gov. Airport Convenience: Clinton National Airport in Little Rock says it’s adding more parking spaces to existing lots and plans further construction, along with recent terminal seating, landscaping, furniture and charging upgrades. Outdoors & Park Funding: A Fact Finders look at state parks asks whether other states do it better than Arkansas—highlighting that Arkansas parks are free to enter, funded through a mix of conservation/tourism taxes, real estate transfer revenue, and cabin rentals. Family Fun & Community Events: Buena Vista hosted public input for a 10–15 year Recreation & Outdoor Master Plan and Transportation Master Plan, with residents prioritizing trails, park upgrades, safety and programming. Local Tourism Pulse: North Little Rock’s North Bar has closed, while Walmart AMP Underground in Rogers is set to host a themed pre-show experience July 21 ahead of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band. Health Watch for Travelers: As Cyclospora cases rise nationally, some restaurants are swapping ingredients as a precaution while investigators search for the source.

Airport Updates: Clinton National Airport in Little Rock says it’s adding more parking spaces to existing lots and plans new construction for additional spots, plus earlier upgrades to seating, landscaping, furniture and charging stations—aimed at making arrivals and pickups easier. Outdoor Access: Arkansas Game and Fish’s new $10.50 Wildlife Management Area/Lake Conservation Permit (for non-licensed people 16+) starts July 1, but most popular River Valley recreation areas won’t be affected and hunting/fishing license holders are exempt. Local Travel & Events: Hope Tourism Board reports June tourism tax at $83,205.70 and highlights the “Sparks Fly in July” fireworks at the Hope Municipal Airport, with nearly 4,000 attendees and a call for better future parking plans. What to Do This Week: Event calendar listings for July 16-23 include Silent Disco, bluegrass and riverfront music in Buena Vista, plus family-friendly happenings across the region. Health Watch: CDC reports a growing cyclosporiasis outbreak nationwide; Arkansas has reported cases, and officials continue to track potential sources like salad greens. Legislation That Could Affect Trips: The U.S. House passed the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent, sending it to the Senate.

Arkansas Tourism & Local Events: Hope’s Tourism Board met at City Hall, reporting June tourism tax receipts of $83,205.70 (their highest in recent years) and discussing next steps for future “Sparks Fly in July” fireworks, including parking improvements and upkeep plans for “Welcome to Hope” signs. Outdoor & Nature: Mount Nebo State Park near Dardanelle will host two public interactive programs Aug. 1—owl pellet exploration and a sunset social—good for families looking for hands-on Arkansas River Valley fun. Arts & Culture: Fort Smith’s Art on the Border returns this weekend with a Friday artists’ opening party and Saturday art show and sale, with proceeds supporting local charities. Food Safety Watch: A nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to contaminated produce continues to spread; CDC says 1,645 domestically contracted cases since May 1, with Arkansas among the states reporting infections—travelers should be mindful with salads and raw greens. Infrastructure & Getting Around: A stretch of West Markham Street in Little Rock remains closed into Wednesday after a dump truck hit a pedestrian bridge; detours are in place while engineers assess damage. Travel Planning & Deals: Arkansas pecan growers can join a Sept. 24-25 Tri-County Pecan Growers Educational Tour departing from Little Rock, with stops across Arkansas and Oklahoma.

Outdoor Access Rules: Arkansas Game and Fish says hikers 16+ entering state-owned wildlife management areas or lakes must carry a hunting license, fishing license, or a new $10.50 conservation permit (starting July 1). Fishing Simplified: AGFC also streamlined smallmouth bass rules into two groups—Blue Ribbon Streams (1 bass/day, 15-inch minimum) and statewide flowing waters (2 bass/day, 12-inch minimum). Local Events & Learning: Free “Fishing the Natural State” educator class is set for 9 a.m. Thursday at the Hunt Family Nature Center in Springdale, plus a Dutch oven cobbler class Saturday and a boating education course Monday/July 21 in Fort Smith. State Tourism Boost: XNA hit a new June monthly enplanement record (129,045), with passenger growth continuing into the first half of 2026. Governor on the Move: Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders will lead an overseas trade mission to Belgium, England and Ireland July 19–24, aiming to pitch Arkansas aerospace and defense. Community Spotlight: Fort Smith’s airport is hosting a rotating Sebastian County 4-H youth photography exhibit in its main lobby. Travel Safety Note: Little Rock police report 11 arrests tied to the July 4 River Market fireworks show, with guns seized and crowds dispersed.

Outdoor Access Rules: Arkansas Game and Fish says hikers 16+ entering state-owned Wildlife Management Areas or lakes must carry a hunting/fishing license or a new $10.50 conservation permit starting July 1, with the goal of simplifying rules and funding trail/park upkeep. Fishing Updates: AGFC also simplified smallmouth bass regulations into two easy categories—Blue Ribbon Streams (1 fish daily, 15-inch minimum) and statewide flowing waters (2 fish daily, 12-inch minimum). Family-Friendly Events: The Robinson Center in Little Rock will host “Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show” for one night on Sept. 10, bringing the Emmy-winning series to the stage. Local Travel & Air Travel: Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) set a new June enplanement record with 129,045 passengers, up 3.1% from June 2025. Statewide Tourism Spotlight: Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced an overseas trade mission to Belgium, England and Ireland next week (July 19–24), aimed at pitching Arkansas—especially aerospace and defense—to potential investors. On-the-Ground Safety: Little Rock police reported arresting 11 people and confiscating guns and fireworks during and after the July 4 “Pops on the River” show.

Outdoor Access & Fees: Arkansas Game and Fish is rolling out a new $10.50 annual AGFC-owned WMA/Lake Conservation Permit for non-consumptive outdoor users—birdwatching, kayaking, hiking—starting July 1, replacing some free access and sparking debate over who should pay. Housing & Community Impact: The 21st Century Road to Housing Act became law without a presidential signature, aiming to boost housing affordability and supply, with Arkansas lawmakers noting the significance of the bipartisan push. Travel Safety on the Road: A fatal crash on I-55 in Perry County, Missouri, killed a 65-year-old passenger and injured the driver; separately, Oklahoma’s I-44 saw emergency bridge repairs after an over-height truck struck an overpass. Local Tourism & Quality of Life: Keep Arkansas Beautiful is now housed within ARDOT under Act 148, aligning litter prevention and beautification efforts with statewide highway programs. Sports Tourism Buzz: Arkansas Travelers’ Futures Game connections and recent games keep Northwest Arkansas baseball on the map, while a Fayetteville veteran athlete returned with seven medals from the National Veterans Golden Age Games.

Arkansas Travelers & baseball buzz: Kade Anderson, an Arkansas Travelers pitcher, earned the start for the American League in the Futures Game in Philadelphia, while Arkansas connections also showed up with former Razorbacks’ Gage Wood getting the NL nod—another reminder that Arkansas talent is turning heads on the national stage. Local sports & summer fun: The Travelers split recent matchups with the Amarillo Sod Poodles, including a weather-shortened 2-1 game that ended early due to rain. Outdoor travel & fishing: Arkansas Outdoors highlights a night bass trip on Midway Lake, with anglers using lights to draw baitfish and trigger strikes—perfect inspiration for summer lake getaways. Community & beautification: Keep Arkansas Beautiful is now housed under ARDOT, aiming to boost litter prevention and beautification across highways and public spaces. Safety note: A 49-year-old Eureka Springs man died in a Benton County crash on U.S. 62, underscoring the need for extra caution on summer roads.

Outdoor & Family Fun: Perry’s Presley Farms pulled off Arkansas’s first-ever chuckwagon races, drawing 152 teams and setting up a big run toward the National Championship Chuckwagon Race. Arkansas River & History: A new look at the Arkansas River Walk experience pairs with a reminder of July 12 history, including the Trail of Tears removal from Little Rock. Wildlife & Hunting: Arkansas Game and Fish is changing field trial rules at Blue Mountain and Camp Robinson, sparking backlash from bird dog handlers. Fishing Tips: An Arkansas Outdoors night-bass trip on Midway Lake highlights how lights, baitfish, and swimbaits can turn a calm outing into a real bite. Travel Infrastructure: Keep Arkansas Beautiful is now housed inside ARDOT, aiming to boost statewide litter prevention and beautification. Sports Tourism Buzz: The Arkansas Travelers’ Carson Wiggins headlines local pride after being drafted by the Mets, while the Travelers’ recent win over Amarillo keeps baseball fans looking toward the next game.

Outdoor Adventure: Cossatot River State Park (Natural Area) is spotlighted for its rugged trails and some of the wildest whitewater in the South, plus land-based hikes and a visitor center for geology and wildlife lovers. Family Safety: A 9-year-old girl in Bryant survived after being swept through a storm drain system more than 200 yards during heavy rain, with officers and residents helping her reach safety. Wildfire & Tourism Impact: U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper visited Buena Vista to hear how the Willow Fire is disrupting tourism and straining local businesses, with thousands of acres burned and containment still underway. Parks & Permits: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission rolled out 2026-27 regulation changes, including a new $10.50 annual WMA/Lake Conservation Permit for many visitors age 16+ to support access and habitat improvements. Roadside Beautification: ARDOT took over oversight of Keep Arkansas Beautiful, aiming to boost litter prevention and beautification across the state’s highway system. Local Interest: Fort Smith police are investigating a reported threat tied to a mayoral candidate’s press secretary ahead of a board meeting.