The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) has introduced “Generation Conservation,” a new initiative designed to immerse students in outdoor education and conservation efforts.
This program aims to integrate nature-based learning into classrooms across the state, providing students with opportunities to develop outdoor skills and environmental awareness.
A highlight of the initiative is a two-day summit scheduled for November 5–6 at the Hot Springs Convention Center and Bank OZK Arena.
The event will feature a variety of competitions and activities, including wildlife and plant identification, conservation-themed quiz bowls, archery, and a cadet fitness challenge inspired by game wardens.
Students will also have the chance to engage in STEM-related projects, such as developing apps for online maps and participating in debates on conservation topics.
AGFC Education Chief Mary Beth Hatch emphasized the program’s goal to make outdoor education accessible to all students, regardless of their location.
“We want to ensure that Arkansas students know that The Natural State has every resource available to offer them outdoor education opportunities, no matter what their ZIP code is,” Hatch said.
She also noted that the program could serve as a foundation for schools to incorporate conservation science into their existing STEM curricula.
In addition to student activities, the summit will offer professional development opportunities for educators. Teachers and administrators will have access to AGFC’s conservation-based curricula and can earn professional development credits by participating in the event.
This dual approach aims to equip both students and educators with the tools needed to foster a deeper connection with the natural environment.
To support the program, former AGFC Commissioner Bobby Martin and his family have established the Bobby L. Martin Generation Conservation Endowment Fund.
The fund aims to provide financial assistance for scholarships, teacher stipends, STEM equipment, and travel grants, ensuring that schools across Arkansas can participate in the initiative.