Ducks First
The email on the following page is an effort to urge the AGFC to restructure Arkansas's duck season framework around waterfowl biology rather than hunter convenience.The letter proposes three changes: shortening the December split to provide and protect early-season habitat and replacing the traditional Christmas break with a short but effective January split to provide meaningful rest. With ducks currently hunted roughly 51 of 53 days from mid-December through late January, Arkansas places immense pressure on waterfowl at a time when they should be preparing for a successful return to the breeding grounds. The third ask is to move the Youth/Veterans Hunts to earlier in the season when the opportunity is better, as the ducks and habitat are "fresher".The central message: put the duck first and the hunter second, as waterfowl science clearly states adequate habitat, refuge, and rest are key components to sustainability, and the current Arkansas season format contradicts those pillars.This is not a request to reduce the allotted 60 days; just asking for consideration to make better use of the splits. The USFWS only allows a season to be stopped and started twice, hence doing away with the Christmas split.Please click the Next Step button to add your contact info and submit an email in support of these requests to the AGFC Commissioners and waterfowl-related staff.Your support of the ducks and improving Arkansas's future duck seasons is greatly appreciated.
