Natural State Initiative wants to expand mountain biking and rock climbing in Arkansas State Parks

The Natural State Initiative advisory council wants to expand mountain biking and rock climbing in Arkansas State Parks, according to a report released Wednesday by the governor's office. The council also wants to establish Arkansas as a year-round tourism destination, and to codify the Office of Outdoor Recreation into state law "to create greater opportunities for access to state revenue and federal grants," according to the report. The report contains many recommendations, and the public is invited to share their feedback and ideas.

By: Bill Bowden
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

The Natural State Initiative advisory council wants to expand mountain biking and rock climbing in Arkansas State Parks, according to a report released Wednesday by the governor's office.

The council also wants to establish Arkansas as a year-round tourism destination, and to codify the Office of Outdoor Recreation into state law "to create greater opportunities for access to state revenue and federal grants," according to the report.

The report contains many recommendations, and the public is invited to share their feedback and ideas.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders established the Natural State Initiative in January and required an annual written report summarizing its progress. She appointed Arkansas' first gentleman, Bryan Sanders, as chairman of the advisory council.

"Arkansas is the Natural State, and our mission is to establish Arkansas as a leading destination for year-round outdoor adventure," Bryan Sanders said through a news release on Wednesday.

The report didn't provide details on how Arkansas would become a year-round destination, and Teddy Stewart, chief of staff for Bryan Sanders, didn't return an email seeking more information.

Arkansas' tourism tax collections indicate there's usually a dip in economic activity from November through February.

Through the news release, Bryan Sanders said he was proud of the council's work and encouraged Arkansans to read the report and offer their input and feedback.

"Together, we can make our state not only the best place to visit and spend time outdoors, but to live, work, and raise a family," he said.

Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, said The Natural State Initiative "has worked to help leverage Arkansas' unmatched natural beauty to promote tourism and grow our outdoor economy."

"The initiative has been an important step in Gov. Sanders' bold approach to involve multiagency and private partners working together to ensure that Arkansas does not just compete in the outdoor economy space, but rather, is a true national leader in outdoor recreation and the outdoor economy," said Lewis. "The initiative has provided a framework to market the beauty and potential of The Natural State to the world for recreation tourism and outdoor business opportunities."

Read more here.