Nov. 24, 2021
Randy Zellers Assistant Chief of Communications
LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is asking for public input into the next version of its Reservoir Black Bass Management Plan, but time is running out. For the plan to stay on track and be published in spring 2022, the open comment period must be closed by Nov. 30. Taking only a few minutes to answer three questions can offer tremendous insight into the opinions of anglers and their desires for the future of fishing in Arkansas. The questionnaire is available at www.agfc.com/bassplan.
The AGFC has produced Black Bass Management Plans to help guide fisheries efforts since the formation of its Black Bass Program, which began in 2001. The next version of the plan will incorporate values of all black bass stakeholders and provide broad guidance on policies for addressing the complex management challenges and issues related to producing high-quality fishing experiences for black bass.
During the planning process the AGFC Fisheries Division will work with a stakeholder advisory committee consisting of citizen volunteers. These volunteers will represent a large section of public interests and values concerning black bass fisheries in Arkansas.
“We plan to have representation from all levels of involvement,” Vic DiCenzo, AGFC Black Bass Program Coordinator, said. “We definitely want to hear from our ultra-avid tournament anglers and bass-fishing industry, but we also want to hear the desires of the bank angler, kayak angler and other outdoor enthusiasts who benefit from the resource as well. We serve everyone, so it’s important to ensure everyone’s input is considered in our management.”
In addition to the advisory committee, the Black Bass Program would like to gather some input from all stakeholders to gather their views on fishing in The Natural State. The questionnaire at the link www.agfc.com/bassplan offers an avenue for these individuals to have their voice heard in the process. Contact DiCenzo at blackbassprogram@agfc.ar.gov.