AGFC joins with conservation agencies to increase impact on fisheries

LITTLE ROCK--The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has joined 20 state, federal and local conservation organizations in an effort to protect fish and aquatic habitats throughout the Southeast. The formal signing of the Southeast Aquatic Resources Partnership took place last summer, breaking new ground for aquatic resources conservation in America.

The SARP has been meeting twice a year since its inception in 2001 with the mission to protect, conserve and restore aquatic resources throughout the Southeast. All organizations involved in the partnership signed a Memorandum of Understanding to solidify the coalition.

According to a 1998 Nature Conservancy report, 74 of the 87 “freshwater hot spots” (watersheds of concern) are in the Southeast. And of the 200 foreign aquatic nuisance species, about half are found in this region. Add the increased demand for water-related recreation like fishing and population growth, and the problem becomes much more than one state or local organization can tackle. By uniting with organizations across the Southeast, the AGFC can make a difference that affects the whole region.

The partnership hopes to pattern its joint ventures for aquatic resources much like the extremely successful projects focused on migratory birds. With all of the organizations speaking in one voice, the entire coalition will have much more influence.