State sees decline in hunting participation

Habitat management could be affected by falling hunter-related revenue

A recent report shows that Arkansas is experiencing a downward shift in hunting participation that ultimately could affect the management of the state’s wildlife and an overall quality of life throughout The Natural State.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission reports a 7 percent decline in hunters of license age, 16 and older, from 2013-17. That translates to more than 18,000 hunters not in the woods. AGFC officials said decreased revenue from license sales and hunting equipment sales could have an impact on the Commission’s ability to protect the state’s wildlife habitat. “The work of AGFC to conserve and manage habitat is critical to healthy wildlife populations and quality recreational activities, such as hunting, fishing and just enjoying nature,” said Chris Colclasure, Deputy Director for AGFC. “For example, the wildlife management area system provides more than 3 million acres of public land for hunting and enjoying wildlife. While not all acres are owned by AGFC, its staff coordinates with many partners on habitat, public-use management and research.”

Jami Fisher, CFO of the Commission said “AGFC receives funding through a 1/8-cent conservation sales tax, license sales, and federal funding. Most of those funds result from direct contribution from those who participate in recreational shooting, hunting and fishing activities in the state and across the country. Federal funding through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs are calculated in part by the number of paid license-holders certified annually.” Federal aid received by AGFC accounts for approximately one-third of the agency’s revenue sources, and more than 60 grants are active using this funding.

“As we see a decline in participation and licenses being purchased, there is a subsequent impact on the amount of federal aid the agency is eligible to receive for conservation work. A decrease in these funds to AGFC would impact habitat management, land acquisition, and maintenance and operation of our existing wildlife management areas”, said Fisher. Additionally, the funds from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses aids AGFC in partnering with groups like The Nature Conservancy, a national organization dedicated to preserving the natural environment across the globe. In Arkansas, the organization works with partners to conserve natural resources on projects across the state.

“Since 1982, we have worked with other partners to conserve more than 320,000 acres of land across the state and currently own approximately 35,000 acres for project demonstration sites that are open for the public to enjoy,” said Scott Simon, Arkansas director for The Nature Conservancy. “Our projects and places help provide clean water for the people and wildlife and provide outdoor recreation opportunities for Arkansans by providing more places to hike, fish, bicycle and connect with nature.”

Simon said managing habitat effectively is a key to maintaining a balance for wildlife.

“With abundant populations of some species, like whitetailed deer, and the decline of others, like the northern bobwhite quail, it is important to develop the right toolkit for everyone,” he said. “Habitat restoration, prescribed fire, hunting, and reforestation are just a few of the ways we are working together to create a healthy landscape to benefit both the wildlife and people of Arkansas.”

While there are many reasons for the decline in hunting participation, Bob Karel, Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation Coordinator for the Arkansas Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, said the most common reasons are making the time, awareness of access to hunting and fishing locations and finances. “The NWTF works closely with AGFC and other agencies to save and improve habitat for wildlife and create beginner hunting opportunities. Less revenue for those agency partners limits the work the organizations can do together and the opportunities available for hunters.”

“The hunting and outdoor lifestyle are ingrained in our culture as Arkansans. The loss of that heritage would mean losing a legacy that matters to thousands of families and citizens. People are happier and healthier when connected to nature. Hunters and anglers should strive to maintain that connection and introduce to the outdoors”, he said.