March Commission meeting canceled because of virus concerns

March 13, 2020

Keith Stephens

Chief of Communications

LITTLE ROCK – Because of concerns caused by the spread of the coronavirus, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s monthly meeting, scheduled for March 19 in Hope, has been canceled. The March 18 open forum public meeting, also scheduled for Hope, has been canceled as well.

The planned release of proposed regulations will be available to the public at AGFC.com next week. At this time, the April commission meeting is scheduled for April 23 in Little Rock.

In addition to canceled meetings, all AGFC buildings will be closed to the public through March 30. This includes Little Rock headquarters, regional offices, hatcheries, nature and conservation education centers, and field offices. The public is encouraged to use outside amenities such as hiking trails, lakes, wildlife management areas and water trails.

The AGFC is reviewing all upcoming events that may involve non-essential large gatherings that could expand exposure to the virus. More information on those events is available at AGFC.com.

AGFC Director Pat Fitts said the health and well-being of the state’s outdoor enthusiasts is a top priority for the agency. Though we are reducing opportunities to meet indoors, we hope that everyone can go out and experience nature, he added.

“With that in mind, we have made the difficult decision to temporarily close our facilities in an effort to reduce the spread of this virus,” Fitts said. “We continue to follow developing information and guidelines from federal, state and local health officials concerning public spaces, and urge everyone to take all safety precautions to reduce the risk of illness and the spread of disease.”