Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

The meeting involved administrative discussions regarding scheduling a presentation for another time. A motion was passed to approve the agenda as amended, which included a goodwill sentiment for a commissioner's recovery. The commission proceeded with commissioner roll call due to hybrid attendance. The primary discussion centered on the timeline for revising the Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) management and response plan. The revision process involves an extensive literature review, completion of a first draft by the end of February 2025, followed by a peer review process throughout March and into April. The revised draft will be presented for a first reading in April and a final vote in June. Feedback collection methods include formal expert peer review, a citizen focus group, and consultation with the Directors Advisory group.

The meeting commenced with a roll call of commissioners. The primary discussion point immediately following the call to order was a motion to enter into executive session to discuss a personnel matter. The motion was made, seconded, and approved by the present commissioners. Following the executive session, the body reconvened publicly.

The meeting included discussions on agency projects, strategic plans, and public engagement. Topics included the 2018-19 duck season, chronic wasting disease (CWD), and fisheries management. Presentations covered waterfowl biology, CWD research and evaluation, and fisheries division updates. Challenges such as infrastructure aging, lake management, and aquatic nuisance species were addressed. There were also questions about turkey hunting regulations.

The meeting addressed proposed regulation changes, including reinserting language into Code 1801 regarding Turkey baiting prohibitions and allowance for natural deer urine products. The discussion covered the necessity of these changes, potential risks associated with deer urine products, and alignment with testing programs.

The meeting included discussions and actions following an executive session. A motion was approved to suspend committee rules, allowing the commission to take action outside of the executive session. Commissioners approved the appointment of Chris Racy as the interim director, effective January 4th, following Director Boost's resignation. The Commission is making a formal request to human resources to execute a request or written quotes from three search firms to help identify the next director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.