AGP Executive Report

Heat & Storm Safety: A Fourth of July heat wave is easing, but forecasters warn millions across Arkansas and much of the Midwest/Northeast to prepare for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, and damaging winds through the holiday weekend. Arkansas Wildlife & Invasives: Arkansas has adopted new rules for warfarin-based toxicants to control feral hogs, with limits on where/when products can be used and requirements for licensed applicators. Public Health & Climate Impacts: Arkansas researchers are studying tiny “no-see-ums” (Culicoides midges) and how their appetite could affect sheep and deer populations, while Illinois scientists warn tick season is starting earlier and lasting longer as winters warm. Water & Environment Oversight: ADEQ and the City of Mount Ida entered a consent order over alleged Clean Water Act permit issues tied to wastewater discharge timing/renewal paperwork. Local Food Safety: Arkansas Department of Health posted recent retail food inspection findings, including temperature-control and labeling problems at a Grider Field restaurant. Community Grants: Craighead County Community Foundation awarded four Strategic Impact Grants totaling $253,545 to local nonprofits. Research & Conservation: UAPB graduate students earned top honors at the AR-BIC conference for aquaculture and fish disease work.

Heat & Storm Safety: Forecasters warn a Fourth of July heat wave is easing but severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, and damaging winds could hit more than a dozen states, including Arkansas, with gusts up to 85 mph. Wildlife Watch: Arkansas residents are being told to expect more snake activity as summer heat drives rodents indoors; local officials also shared bear-sighting safety tips in Bearden. Feral Hog Control Rules: Arkansas adopted new statewide rules for warfarin-based toxicants to manage feral hogs, creating a new pesticide class and restricting where and when products can be used (with sales/usage not immediate). Water Quality & Permits: ADEQ and the City of Mount Ida entered a consent order over alleged Clean Water Act permit issues tied to wastewater discharge and permit renewal timing. Dam Risk Planning: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues interim safety steps at Arkabutla Dam and released a draft environmental assessment for a recommended long-term fix. Arkansas Research & Aquaculture: UAPB graduate students earned top honors at the AR-BIC conference, including AI-powered aquaculture work. Local Grants: Craighead County Community Foundation awarded Strategic Impact Grants totaling $253,545 to four nonprofits.

Feral hog control: Arkansas adopted new rules for warfarin-based toxicants to curb invasive feral hogs, creating a Class J pesticide category; products must be registered first and can only be sold through licensed dealers and applied by trained, licensed applicators, with use restricted by county and limited to Dec. 1–Mar. 31. Wildlife & research: UADA’s June digest highlights a $298,000 USDA grant for nematode research, a July 2 screwworm preparedness webinar, and summer wildlife updates including guidance as black bears become more active. Aquaculture innovation: UAPB graduate students won top honors at the Arkansas Bioinformatics Consortium conference, including first place for an AI-powered aquaculture platform and third place for fish disease management research. Drinking water oversight: EPA’s 2023 compliance report shows 28% of U.S. public water systems had at least one violation, while 4% violated health-based standards. Heat risk: An Extreme Heat Warning covers parts of eastern Arkansas, with heat index values around 110+ and advice to limit outdoor exposure and stay hydrated. Outdoor recreation: Arkansas Game and Fish released the 2026-27 fishing guidebook and regulation changes effective July 1, including trout rule updates tied to stocking shortfalls. Land conservation: Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy permanently protected 54 acres near its Little Rock Creek Preserve, safeguarding habitat and water resources.

Feral Hog Control: Arkansas adopted new rules for warfarin-based toxicants to curb invasive feral hog damage, creating a Class J pesticide category. The rule took effect June 29, but products can’t be sold or used until registered by the Arkansas State Plant Board; sales are limited to licensed dealers and use to trained, licensed applicators. Wildlife & Water Protection: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and partners also continue conservation work, including a major boreal toad tadpole reintroduction effort in Colorado and a USGS dye-tracing study in Lake Fork Creek using non-toxic Rhodamine WT to track impacts near mining areas. Heat & Public Safety: Extreme heat is hitting the region, with an Extreme Heat Warning for eastern Arkansas and heat indices near or above 110 expected through the holiday weekend. Drinking Water Oversight: EPA released its 2023 compliance report showing 28% of public water systems reported at least one violation, with monitoring/reporting failures affecting 20% of systems. Land Conservation: Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy permanently protected 54 acres in the Roan Highlands near Little Rock Creek, safeguarding ridgelines, wildlife habitat, and floodplain water resources.

Extreme Heat & Storm Risk: An Extreme Heat Warning is up for parts of eastern Arkansas, with Thursday expected to be the hottest day of the week (heat index 110+). Friday stays dangerous, with only isolated storms and a gradual cooldown into next week. Public Health & Climate Links: National reporting flags how climate change can expand the reach of pathogens like flesh-eating Vibrio vulnificus—while also pointing to federal program cuts that weaken prevention and response. Feral Hog Poison Rules: Arkansas approved new pesticide rules for warfarin-based feral hog bait, but it still can’t be sold or used yet until products are registered; the rule also limits use by dates and bans use in counties with recent black bear harvests. Local Governance & Data Centers: A proposed Little Rock moratorium would pause new approvals of large-scale “hyperscale” data centers until Jan. 1, 2027, citing questions about electricity costs, water resilience, and environmental exposure. Wildlife & Hunting Policy: North Carolina rolled out new Chronic Wasting Disease deer hunting regulations, including earlier seasons and updated carcass disposal requirements. Arkansas Research & Aquaculture: UAPB’s Yathish Ramena was inducted into the Arkansas Research Alliance Academy, and UAPB graduate students earned top honors at an AR-BIC conference for AI-driven aquaculture and fish disease work.

Arkansas Data Center Pause: Little Rock’s board will consider a moratorium on new large-scale “hyperscale” data center approvals until Jan. 1, 2027, with the proposal aimed at forcing answers on electricity costs, water resilience, environmental exposure, and tax revenue; it would not apply to a planned Google site at the Port of Little Rock. Feral Hog Control Rules: The Arkansas Legislative Council approved updated Department of Agriculture pesticide rules for warfarin-based feral hog bait, creating a new Class J category and tightening when, where, and by whom these restricted-use products can be sold and used. Wildlife & Disease Management: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is increasing boating safety patrols for the holiday weekend, while wildlife agencies elsewhere are expanding deer hunting opportunities to help manage chronic wasting disease. Heat & Climate Pressure: A holiday heat wave is expected to push dangerous heat and high humidity across the region, with forecasts noting climate-driven increases in heat extremes. Research & Food Innovation: UAPB aquaculture leader Yathish Ramena was inducted as an Arkansas Research Fellow, and Gov. Sanders approved $5 million toward a University of Arkansas food science Center of Excellence for Food Science and Innovation in Fayetteville. Community Resilience: Trumann leaders met to discuss flood solutions after severe storms brought heavy rain and flash flooding, focusing on drainage ditch cleanup and keeping water moving out of town.

Wildlife & Pesticides: The Arkansas Legislative Council approved an amendment to Department of Agriculture pesticide rules for warfarin-based feral hog bait, creating a new Class J classification and setting when, where, and by whom the products can be used—though sale and use still require future product registration and restricted-use dealer sales. Public Health & Climate: A new report warns that climate-driven spread of pathogens is colliding with federal health-hazard cutbacks, highlighting rising risks from waterborne threats like Vibrio vulnificus and renewed livestock disease concerns. Flood Resilience: Trumann leaders met after severe storms to reduce future flood risks, focusing on clearing drainage ditches so water can move out faster and not back up into homes and streets. Food & Water Safety: Arkansas is among states affected by a FDA shampoo recall tied to microbial contamination, underscoring ongoing consumer safety watch. Energy & Environment: The U.S. Army conditionally selected Titan Mining to build graphite processing at Anniston Army Depot and Pine Bluff Arsenal, aiming to reduce reliance on China for a key battery and defense supply chain. Local Governance & Infrastructure: Sheridan received a grant to plan downtown sidewalk improvements, with surveying and design steps before any public maintenance changes.

Flood Resilience in Northeast Arkansas: Trumann leaders met with state reps and residents after last week’s flash flooding (9–10 inches of rain) to push practical fixes like clearing drainage ditches to keep water moving and reduce future backups. Attorney General & Child Safety Online: Arkansas AG Tim Griffin sued major tech platforms over alleged failures to protect minors, including Roblox/Discord and Snapchat, as the debate over online safeguards keeps heating up. Heat and Public Health: A national look at extreme heat warns that humidity can make conditions far more dangerous than temperature alone, with guidance on how to stay safe during heat waves. Arkansas Water, Waste, and Pollution Bonds: S&P and Moody’s affirmed Arkansas’ strong credit ratings, citing governance, reserves, and investment—alongside proposed 2026 water and pollution abatement bond plans. Wildlife Protection Plan: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued a biological opinion tied to Arkansas’ bat conservation strategy for Indiana bats and northern long-eared bats under the Endangered Species Act. Food and Water Safety: The FDA announced a shampoo recall for microbial contamination affecting shipments that include Arkansas. Local Environment & Infrastructure: Sheridan received a $101,048 grant to plan downtown sidewalk improvements, including surveying and design that could reshape how public infrastructure is maintained.

Heat Safety: A major heat dome is building across the eastern U.S., with dangerously hot, humid conditions expected to hit places including Little Rock and Memphis—health experts urge hydration, shade, and extra care for kids and older adults. Wildlife & Safety: Fort Smith police report at least 10 black bear sightings over the weekend and ask residents not to approach or feed bears; Arkansas bear experts say encounters are rare but attractants should be removed. Arkansas Environment Watch: ADEQ and Jarvis Tree Service reached a consent order over alleged air-permit violations tied to an air curtain incinerator in Heber Springs, with a $3,000 civil penalty. Critical Minerals on Military Land: The U.S. Army is moving to process graphite, lithium, boron and rare earths on bases including Pine Bluff Arsenal in Arkansas, aiming to reduce foreign dependence. Local Outdoors: Arkansas Game and Fish is partnering with anglers to collect striped bass carcasses for Beaver Lake research, plus free boater education and a kids fishing camp. Community: Johnson County 4-H hosted Ozark District O-Rama with events spanning forestry, wildlife, poultry, and environmental stewardship.

Arkansas Wildlife Safety: Fort Smith police say at least 10 black bear sightings were reported over the weekend and urge residents not to approach or feed bears, calling the nonemergency line to report sightings. Outdoor Education: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is partnering with anglers to collect striped bass carcasses for Beaver Lake research, and it’s also running a Reel Kids fishing camp (July 7-9) plus a free boater education course at the Janet Huckabee River Valley Nature Center (July 20-21). Heat & Water Stress: A Midwest heatwave is forcing summer camp and outdoor activity cancellations, with extreme heat and humidity spreading east—another reminder for Arkansans to plan for cooling and hydration during peak conditions. Conservation Science: Researchers studying the Fayetteville Shale in northwest Arkansas say rare 3D shark fossils were preserved in a low-oxygen, highly acidic seafloor that protected cartilage, offering clues for finding similar fossils elsewhere. Animal Health Preparedness: The University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture will host a July 2 webinar on New World screwworm—no confirmed cases in Arkansas so far, but prevention and public awareness are the focus. Industrial Growth (Environment Angle): Hybar says it raised $1.1 billion to expand its Osceola scrap-recycling rebar mini mill with a second mill expected to boost output while using advanced technology.

Heat and power strain: A new report warns average U.S. summer electricity costs could jump to about $792, with Arkansas in the West South Central region expected to see some of the biggest cooling bill increases as heat and humidity push air conditioners harder. Climate extremes: The National Weather Service is also flagging a dangerous July 4 heatwave across much of the central and eastern U.S., while parts of Montana and Idaho face rare June snow. Local industry and environment: Hybar says it will open a second scrap-based rebar mini mill in Osceola after raising $1.1B, aiming for about 1.3 million tons of rebar annually—more steel demand tied to energy and materials impacts. Clean water misinformation fight: Anti-abortion groups are urging the EPA to review mifepristone as a water contaminant, despite scientists saying there’s no solid proof of environmental harm. Arkansas maternal health: Arkansas’ first certified community-based doula marks progress toward a Medicaid/insurance reimbursement pathway for doulas supporting rural families. Waste and growth pressure: A Northwest Arkansas regional plan highlights a looming landfill capacity crunch as the area races toward 1 million residents.

Extreme Heat & Power Costs: A new report warns summer electricity bills could average about $792 nationwide, with hotter weather driving higher cooling demand—especially in the South and West South Central region that includes Arkansas. Heatwave Watch: The National Weather Service is flagging a dangerous, humid heatwave across much of the central and eastern U.S. ahead of the Fourth of July, with many areas seeing highs near or above 100°F and limited overnight relief. Arkansas Education & Energy Efficiency: Arkansas State University faculty earned ACUE Effective Teaching certification, while a separate school-energy story highlights SWEPCO incentives supporting energy-efficient upgrades for a new high school. Data Centers & Local Taxes: Coverage notes Arkansas data centers are poised to get major property tax breaks, potentially wiping out more than half of expected revenue for communities. Clean Water Claims: Anti-abortion advocates are pushing the EPA to review mifepristone as a water contaminant, despite scientists saying there’s no solid environmental harm. Local Environment & Community: A Paragould storm-drain rescue used a hot dog to lure a soaked puppy to safety, and Arkansas’s Pride events continued across the state with community support.

School Vouchers Fight: Eureka Springs Sen. Fred Love says he’d halt Arkansas’ school voucher program by executive order if elected, arguing the state should reinvest the money into public schools—though supporters warn legal challenges are likely. Air Quality Clash: In South Memphis, residents and researchers are disputing a neighborhood pollution report, with health officials questioning PurpleAir-based findings while advocates say the real problem is the lack of close-by monitoring near industrial sites. Data Center Tax Breaks: A new look at planned Arkansas data centers finds property tax abatements could wipe out more than half of expected local revenue, even as projects like a proposed Google site promise millions in potential taxes. Clean Water Funding: EPA brownfields grants are headed to Crossett and Russellville for downtown cleanup work. Wildlife & Habitat: Wyoming approved a $21M fish hatchery expansion to boost sportfish production, including walleye, aiming for long-term stability. Heat Watch: A July 4 heat dome forecast puts Arkansas and much of the South at elevated health risk from dangerous temperatures. Local Pride & Inclusion: Fayetteville’s Pride Festival and nearby business displays highlight community support as Pride Month winds down.

Data Centers & Taxes: Planned multi-billion-dollar data centers in Arkansas, including a proposed Google site at the Port of Little Rock, are set to receive property tax abatements that could cut potential local revenue by more than half, raising questions about who really pays for growth. Air Quality Trust Clash: In South Memphis, residents and researchers are disputing a neighborhood pollution report, with health officials challenging the monitoring approach while advocates say the lack of close-by monitoring has left communities exposed. Heat Risk: A July 4 heat dome forecast points to dangerous, unusually hot conditions across much of the South and parts of Arkansas, with overnight lows staying high. Wildlife & Habitat: A Paragould storm-drain rescue used a hot dog to lure a soaked puppy to safety, while broader coverage highlights how habitat loss and light pollution threaten fireflies. Clean Water Funding: The EPA announced over $25 million in grants aimed at improving drinking water infrastructure in small and rural communities, including PFAS and lead-related fixes. Local Green Learning: Arkansas State Parks is partnering with Apple Seeds to create a Central Arkansas teaching farm at Pinnacle Mountain State Park to expand hands-on learning for thousands of students. Steel Recycling Expansion: Hybar broke ground on a $1.1 billion scrap-metal recycling rebar mill in Osceola, aiming to boost production capacity and expand “sustainable steel” output.

Heat & Health: A July 4 heat dome could push temperatures into the high 90s and low 100s across 30+ states, including Arkansas, with warm overnight lows limiting relief and raising health risks for people spending time outdoors. Water & PFAS Funding: The U.S. EPA announced more than $25 million for small and rural drinking-water upgrades, including help to address PFAS, lead sources, and local contamination challenges. Local Conservation & Education: Arkansas State Parks is partnering with Apple Seeds to build a Central Arkansas Teaching Farm at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, aiming to reach thousands of students with hands-on growing and cooking programs. Forestry Cost-Share: Arkansas is accepting applications for Southern Pine Beetle Prevention and Southeast Arkansas Hardwood Reforestation programs, with funding support for landowners through Aug. 14. Wildlife & Habitat: Firefly tourism is booming worldwide, but habitat loss, light pollution, and pesticides are putting fireflies at risk—raising concerns about dimmer summer nights ahead. Local Industry & Recycling: Hybar broke ground on a $1.1 billion expansion scrap-metal recycling steel rebar mill in Osceola, targeting about 1.3 million tons of annual capacity. Farm Bill Momentum: Sen. John Boozman released a Farm Bill 2.0 discussion draft, and conservation groups say it could help align farm policy with modern wildlife and land needs.

Farm Bill momentum in Arkansas: U.S. Sen. John Boozman (R-AR) released a “Farm Bill 2.0” discussion draft, drawing praise from conservation and ag leaders who say it updates programs for modern farm and wildlife needs. Drinking water funding: The EPA announced more than $25 million in grants to help small and rural communities upgrade drinking water systems, tackle PFAS, and remove lead sources. Arkansas teaching farm: Arkansas State Parks is partnering with Apple Seeds to build a Central Arkansas Teaching Farm near Pinnacle Mountain State Park, aiming to reach thousands of students with hands-on growing and cooking programs. Local industry expansion: Hybar broke ground on a $1.1 billion second scrap-metal recycling steel rebar mill in Osceola, targeting about 1.3 million tons of annual capacity. Air quality watch: Saharan dust is expected to reach the Houston area and may spread toward Louisiana and possibly Arkansas, with warnings about reduced air quality and allergy impacts. Wildlife and habitat: Colorado partners reintroduced boreal toad tadpoles into a historic breeding site to support biodiversity recovery.