A roundup of recent outdoor news from across Arkansas
Arkansas’s great outdoors offers endless opportunities for wonder and adventure, from the scenic DeQueen Lake to the expansive Fayetteville Trails. Here’s a roundup of the latest updates:
US Army Corps of Engineers seeks volunteers for shoreline cleanup
In partnership with local organizations, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is inviting community members to participate in the De Queen Lake Shoreline Cleanup on Oct. 26, 2024. The event will kick off at 8 a.m. at the Oak Grove Boat Ramp at 612 Rink Road in De Queen, Arkansas. Volunteers will work on cleaning up the shoreline, with additional trail maintenance taking place at campsite #40 in Pine Ridge Park.
Participants will be provided with trash bags, cleanup supplies, and assigned locations for both shoreline and trail work. Volunteers are encouraged to bring personal snacks, water, and tools like pick-up sticks or grabbers for easier litter collection. For safety and comfort, attendees are advised to wear loose, breathable clothing, along with sunscreen, insect repellent, and closed-toed shoes.
The cleanup will focus on removing debris and litter, which will be collected and returned to the boat ramp for proper disposal. After the event, volunteers will be treated to a complimentary lunch and will have the chance to receive a free T-shirt while supplies last. Youth participants can also look forward to water safety giveaways.
Day-use fees will be waived for all volunteers. Contact the De Queen Field Office at (870) 584-4161 for more information.
Trick-or-Treat on the Trail
The third annual Trick-or-Treat on the Trail will take place on Thursday, Oct. 31, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in Fayetteville’s Lower Ramble. The free event, hosted by the City of Fayetteville in partnership with the Rotary Club of Fayetteville and Experience Fayetteville, invites trick-or-treaters of all ages to enjoy a festive Halloween evening along the trails in the Fay Jones Woods.
City departments, Experience Fayetteville, and Rotary Club members will be stationed along the trails to hand out treats, creating a fun and safe environment for families to celebrate the spooky season. “The Fay Jones Woods has become a beloved setting for family-friendly events, and we look forward to welcoming the community back for another Halloween celebration,” said Joanna Sheehan Bell, the City’s arts and culture director.
To ensure safe crossings, one block of S. West Avenue between Mountain and South Streets will be closed from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Free parking will be available at the Fayetteville Public Library and the City’s Mountain Street surface lot.
Burn Bans are Back
This year, Arkansas has seen its burn ban season extend into the fall months due to prolonged dry conditions and higher-than-average temperatures. Normally associated with summer, burn bans have been issued in many counties well into October, as the risk of wildfires remains elevated. State officials have urged residents to avoid outdoor burning, including campfires and fire pits, and to follow local restrictions closely. The dry conditions, combined with fallen autumn leaves, have increased the likelihood of fires spreading quickly.
The extended burn ban season has impacted outdoor activities, especially for campers and hikers who frequent Arkansas’s parks and forests. While the fall season typically brings cooler weather and popular camping trips, authorities are prioritizing safety by enforcing burn bans to prevent potential fire hazards. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed about burn bans in their areas by checking local government websites and advisories.
For more information on Arkansas Burn Bans, visit our Burn Ban Article.
