Trumann, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s (AGFC) proposal to overhaul waterfowl hunting on a portion of the St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area is drawing growing opposition across Northeast Arkansas, with local officials, longtime hunters and conservation advocates arguing the changes would fundamentally alter generations of hunting tradition while supporters say the proposal is intended to address overcrowding and improve the hunting experience.
The proposal would establish a permit draw system for approximately 1,000 acres of St. Francis Lake — known by many local hunters as the “Wide Water” area — while limiting hunting to four days per week and restricting hunting parties to four people. According to AGFC, the proposal is designed to reduce hunting pressure and address longstanding concerns about overcrowding in one of Arkansas’ most heavily used public duck hunting areas.
The proposal remains under public review, with the AGFC expected to consider it during its August meeting after receiving public comments. Jeremy Brown, Deer Management Assistance Program coordinator for AGFC, speaking on 104.9 The Fox’s Jonesboro Community Breakfast encouraged hunters to review the proposal and submit comments before commissioners vote, saying the agency wants public feedback while explaining the proposal is aimed at addressing years of complaints involving hunting pressure on St. Francis Lake.
Public meeting planned
Opposition to the proposal has continued to build online and in communities surrounding the St. Francis Sunken Lands…