From record-setting hunting seasons to major investments in education and fisheries, 2025 marked a banner year for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
One of the agency’s biggest accomplishments came in the classroom. In June, AGFC joined the Arkansas Department of Education and Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders to announce the Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative, a program designed to integrate conservation and outdoor learning directly into state education standards. AGFC officials say the effort allows teachers to incorporate outdoor education without adding to their workload.
The commission also completed the first year of its School of Conservation Leadership Designation, recognizing 13 Arkansas schools for immersive conservation programs, and capped the year with the inaugural Generation Conservation Summit in Hot Springs, which drew more than 1,000 students from across the state.
AGFC made progress on private and public lands as well. The agency hosted its first Private Lands Expo in Benton, bringing together more than 100 landowners to learn about habitat management and conservation practices. Meanwhile, more than 4,000 new acres were opened for public access in 2025, including the new Hot Springs State Forest Wildlife Management Area and renewed access to Wargo Landing along the Arkansas River.
Hunters also saw standout seasons. Turkey hunters reported 11,332 birds harvested, the highest total in nine years, while Arkansas’ alligator season produced a record harvest of 205 gators. Biologists credited long-term conservation strategies and favorable conditions for the strong numbers.
On the fisheries side, AGFC completed a $16 million renovation of the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery in Lonoke, the largest upgrade in its history. The improvements allow the facility to recycle about 70 percent of its water, saving an estimated 517 million gallons annually. The hatchery will also play a key role in the new Arkansas Legacy Lunker Program, launching in 2026, aimed at producing trophy-class largemouth bass.
AGFC officials say the agency’s focus remains on improving access, education and natural resources for future generations of Arkansans who enjoy the outdoors.
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