Arkansas

Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity

Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission (http://www.naturalheritage.org/)
The Natural Heritage Commission provides information on state and federal threatened and endangered plants and wildlife, habitats of particular conservation concern, and stewardship actions designed to benefit these important natural resources. County-level information on threatened and endangered species and natural communities of concern is available through a searchable database. **A fee is charged to compile species lists and information for site-specific requests.

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (http://www.agfc.com/)
This is the agency responsible for the conservation and management of the state’s wildlife and aquatic resources. In 2005, all states completed a State Wildlife Action Plan to identify and focus management on fish and wildlife in greatest need of conservation. This document provides an overview of key species (primarily nongame) and habitats of conservation concern throughout the state.

Special Sites

Arkansas Historic Preservation Program (http://www.arkansaspreservation.org)
This is the primary state agency with knowledge and expertise in historic preservation, providing assistance in identifying and protecting historic properties and other cultural sites in the state. The staff includes preservation specialists (including historians, architectural historians, historic architects, and archaeologists). The program is currently developing a number of geographically-based databases for easier research of historic and cultural sites: http://www.arkansaspreservation.org/preservation-services/geographic-information-systems/.

Arkansas Archeological Survey (http://www.uark.edu/campus-resources/archinfo/index.html)
The Arkansas Archeological Survey staff has expertise in both historic and prehistoric archaeology. The State Archaeologist works out of this office and there are also eleven Research Stations throughout the state with a full-time archaeologist who can provide assistance and information about archaeology or archeological sites. The survey maintains a database of information on archeological sites and projects in Arkansas, access must be approved.

Natural Resources Conservation Service- Cultural Resources (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cultural.html)
The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance, including guidance related to cultural resources, to implement conservation practices. Prior to implementation, NRCS staff or other conservation partners will normally conduct site visits that include an inventory of cultural resources. If resources are identified, they can help provide options for preservation and a variety of appropriate land uses. Even if you are not receiving funding from NRCS, the Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator can provide information regarding cultural resources and may be able to visit your property or connect you with other organizations or individuals for assistance. The Cultural Resources Directory can be used to locate your state’s Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator.

Arkansas History Commission (www.ark-ives.com)
The History Commission identifies, preserves, and makes accessible records (such as census records, military records, family histories, and various county, state and federal records and other documents of historical value to the state. Some records, maps, and other documents have been digitized and can be found at Documenting Arkansas.

Best Management Practices