Host Trey Reid welcomes Colonel Joe Williams, chief of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Enforcement Division, to discuss Williams’ upbringing near Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge, his hunting and fishing roots, and the game warden encounter that inspired his career. Williams describes earning a degree from the University of Arkansas at Monticello, interning with AGFC, entering the academy in 2009, and learning under mentors like former Director Pat Fitz during his 13 years in Ashley County before becoming a supervisor in Calico Rock. He explains game wardens’ community-oriented role as educators and public-safety officers. He also outlines the demanding academy and hiring process. Williams highlights specialized capabilities such as dive team, honor guard, disaster response, accident reconstruction, and canines, and shares how to contact wardens, including the 24-hour dispatch number 833-356-0824.

Host Trey Reid welcomes John Stein, District 1 fishery supervisor in Northwest Arkansas with 24 years at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, to discuss fishery management challenges in a rapidly growing region. Stein shares his background from Northeastern Colorado and his path into fisheries, including early work as a fish pathologist and a hatchery technician at the Andrew Hulsey Hatchery in Hot Springs. The episode covers increased fishing pressure around Beaver Lake, management goals for a trophy striped bass fishery supported by stocking and monitoring, and how frequent high-water events since 2008 have boosted nutrient inputs, forage, cover, and overall fishing quality on Beaver and other White River lakes. Stein explains Northwest Arkansas’s staggered walleye spawning runs and how they create interesting fishing opportunities. The conversation highlights partnerships with the Beaver Watershed Alliance and details securing outside funding. Finally, he describes the Northwest Arkansas Fish Habitat Alliance, which adds an education component by involving schools in building and sinking MossBack fish structures and growing native aquatic plants in school greenhouses. Link for donations to the Northwest Arkansas Fish Habitat Alliance program below.

https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/ArkansasGameFishFoundation/NWAfishhabitatalliance.html

Join host Trey Reid on the Arkansas Wildlife Podcast as he delves into the diverse and intriguing world of freshwater mussels with Dr. Kendall Moles of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Discover the ecological importance of mussels, their unique reproductive mechanisms, and the various conservation efforts in Arkansas. Dr. Moles shares his journey and the challenges faced in preserving these vital species, including propagation techniques and the relentless search for host fish. Learn about the critical role mussels play in maintaining water quality and the interconnectedness of aquatic ecosystems.

Join host Trey Reid on the Arkansas Wildlife Podcast as he delves into the significant role of the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation (AGFF). Special guests 
Jibbie Tucker and Deke Whitbeck share insights about the foundation's history since its inception in 1982, its mission to support the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), and its impactful projects. Learn about the AGFF's efforts in fundraising, educational programs, and conservation initiatives. Discover how events like the Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame banquet and the Commissioner's Cup High School Fishing Tournament not only raise funds but also increase public awareness and engagement. Whether you're a passionate outdoors enthusiast or just curious about conserving Arkansas's natural beauty, this episode provides an in-depth look at the foundation's critical work and future goals.

Join Trey Reid from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission as he sits down with Nick Feltz, the District 10 Fisheries Supervisor, for an in-depth update on the ongoing Lake Conway renovation and restoration project. This episode covers the significant progress made halfway through the five-year timeline, including dam and spillway construction, habitat improvements, and homeowner involvement. Nick also discusses the productivity of contractors, removal of dilapidated structures, and future plans for habitat building and infrastructure improvements. Plus, get the details on an upcoming public meeting where locals can get more information and ask their questions. Don't miss this comprehensive update on one of Arkansas' largest lake restoration projects!

Join host Trey Reid with guests Jeremy Risley and Will Lancet from Arkansas Game and Fish Commissions Fisheries Division in the latest episode of the Arkansas Wildlife Podcast as they discusses the exciting launch of the Legacy Lunker Program. They delve into details about the program's aim to enhance the genetics of Arkansas's bass population through selective breeding. Anglers have the chance to contribute by donating bass weighing 10 pounds or more during a specific time frame each year. With engaging insights into the program's logistics, incentives for anglers, and the newly renovated hatchery facility, this episode is a must-listen for all bass fishing enthusiasts. Tune in to learn how this innovative initiative is set to transform bass fishing in Arkansas. Happy New Year and happy fishing!

Welcome to the Arkansas Wildlife Podcast, the official podcast of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. In this episode, host Trey Reid is joined by Christy Graham, Trout Program Coordinator, and Vic DeCenzo, Assistant Chief in the Fisheries Division, to discuss the recent emergency trout regulations passed by the Commission. They delve into the reasons behind these regulations, which include significant water quality issues and fish losses at the Norfolk National Fish Hatchery. The team also explores the impacts on local fisheries, strategies for mitigating these effects, and provides insights on what anglers can expect in the coming months. Listen in for an in-depth conversation about conservation, the challenges faced by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and the future of trout fishing in Arkansas.

Join Trey Reid as he chats with Allison Fowler, Assistant Chief of the Wildlife Management Division at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. They dive deep into the broader spectrum of wildlife conservation in Arkansas, discussing non-game species that make up 97% of the state's wildlife. From endangered mussels to pollinators like bees and butterflies, discover the extensive efforts made to conserve all of Arkansas's wildlife. Learn about the Arkansas Wildlife Action Plan, habitat management, and how even small actions like gardening with native plants can make a big difference. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the often-overlooked side of wildlife management that supports not just hunters and anglers, but all nature enthusiasts.

In this episode of the Arkansas Wildlife Podcast, Trey Reid from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is joined by Ralph Meeker, AGFCs Statewide Deer Program Coordinator, and Jeremy Brown, AGFCs DMAP Coordinator, to discuss deer management. They dive into topics such as hunting season trends, factors affecting deer population, the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP), and the impact of chronic wasting disease. The conversation emphasizes the importance of hunter participation, evolving deer management strategies, and the collaborative efforts between the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and local hunters to ensure sustainable deer populations and quality habitats.

Welcome to the Arkansas Wildlife Podcast! In this episode, Trey Reid from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission talks with Tim Burnley, AGFC Stream Habitat Supervisor, about the vital work being done to maintain the health of Arkansas' streams. They dive into the significance of riparian management, discuss the impact of sediment pollution, and share detailed success stories of habitat restoration projects across the state. Tim explains the strategies used to stabilize riverbanks and the importance of educating landowners on sustainable development practices. Tune in to learn how these efforts contribute to improved water quality and ecosystem health in the Natural State.