skip to main content
skip to newscasts

Sunday, February 16, 2025

Public News Service Logo
facebook instagram linkedin reddit youtube twitter
view newscast page
play newscast audioPlay

Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

view newscast page
play newscast audioPlay

Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

view newscast page
play newscast audioPlay

Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Arkansas Initiative aims to expand outdoor recreation, boost economy

play audio
Play

Friday, December 29, 2023   

The Natural State Initiative latest report recommends increasing access to outdoor recreation, which will help grow the state's economy.

The Natural State is home to 52 state parks. The report recommends expanding activities that include rock climbing and trails for cycling and mountain biking in the parks.

Arkansas Wildlife Federation Director Terri Lane said from a conservation standpoint, her group is concerned about the lack of discussion so far about protecting natural resources.

She said many sites are situated on important wildlife habitat areas. Mount Magazine State Park is a good example.

"It's one of the most biodiverse and fragile ecosystems in the state," said Lane. "So as part of this process, I think, really asking how are we planning new trails and added amenities in some of these areas in a way that preserves the habitat and protects sensitive plant and animal species."

Lane said the initiative is a worthwhile effort from both an economic and recreational perspective, as it helps Arkansans become more connected to nature.

The report notes Arkansas's outdoor economy grew by almost 23% in the last year. Lane said the initiative may add new job opportunities for Arkansans.

"And I know that's a big part of the initiative," said Lane, "to incubate new outdoor-related businesses and to create new employment opportunities through hospitality, guide services, outfitters."

Lane emphasized that the importance of a long-term maintenance plan for the financial viability of new amenities and the initiative's overall sustainability.

The advisory council is requesting Arkansans' input, feedback and recommendations.




get more stories like this via email

more stories
In 2023, the Biden administration ordered a Bakersfield oil company to remove old oil rigs from Carrizo Plain National Monument in Central California. (Bob Wick/BLM)

Environment

play sound

Groups that fight to protect public lands are criticizing the Trump administration's new review of all oil, gas and mining on public lands. National …


Social Issues

play sound

Minnesota is little less than a year away from launching its paid-leave law, but state lawmakers are debating whether to delay the start until 2027…

Social Issues

play sound

A New York City music school's faculty is back in the classroom after a weeklong strike. The Manhattan School of Music's Precollege Program faculty …


The nonprofit Facing History and Ourselves offers a mini-lesson for teachers about the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol attack, designed for grades 6-12. (Adobe Stock)

Social Issues

play sound

A New York bill would require schools to teach about the Jan. 6 insurrection. The bill calls for all K-12 students to be taught about the event…

Health and Wellness

play sound

An Atlanta-based group is making sure more people have access to an unconventional but effective treatment for their moderate mental health challenges…

Social Issues

play sound

With cost at the forefront of prospective students' minds, higher education institutions in North Carolina are rethinking how to overcome one of the …

Social Issues

play sound

Kentucky's Appalachian counties are expanding efforts to help ensure kids are off to the right start educationally. Research shows attending a high-…

 

Phone: 303.448.9105 Toll Free: 888.891.9416 Fax: 208.247.1830 Your trusted member- and audience-supported news source since 1996 Copyright © 2021