The Army Corps of Engineers is hosting five public workshops in February to discuss proposed changes in operations at 29 of its Arkansas parks because of budget cuts.

 

The public is invited to drop by any time during the workshops and talk one on one with Corps representatives about the proposed recreational changes, provide input and learn more about volunteer and potential partnership opportunities. Written comments will also be accepted at the workshops.  

 

Those interested in the proposed changes at Bull Shoals and Norfork lakes, should attend the workshop that will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Feb. 21, at the Mountain Home Project Office at 324 W. Seventh Street in Mountain Home, Ark. 

 

The Little Rock District is considering changing recreation operations at 29 parks, including closing 13 campgrounds, 4 partial campgrounds, four-day use areas, one partial day use area, and 9 boat ramps.  Included in the proposed campsite closings are the closings of all 35 campsites located at the Dam site at Bull Shoals and all 33 campsites at Pontiac.  Proposed closings at Norfork include all 40 campsites at Jordan.  Also under consideration is making the recreation season shorter at many additional parks, and other likely park adjustments include reducing the frequency of trash pick-up, cleaning and mowing.  In addition, the district expects to hire fewer temporary park rangers and contract park attendants.  

 

Information about proposed changes to specific recreation areas is available on Little Rock District's website at http://www.swl.usace.army.mil/news&info/news/2012/02-12.pdf.  Information is also available on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/littlerockusace.