Arkansas Felsenthal NWR Fall Festival to be Held this Saturday

Now in its fourth year, the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge will host its fall festival on Saturday, Sept. 21 beginning at 10 a.m. The public is invited to come and explore the refuge’s unique recreation opportunities while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere during its annual festival. The festival will take place at the Old Beer Joint Access on Highway 82, west of the river bridge.

Complete with exhibitors, live demonstrations, food, crafts and much more, the festival will focus on a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities and provide hands-on activities to get connected with nature. While hunting and fishing remain the most popular pastimes within the refuge, this festival offers people a chance to enjoy other outdoor activities as well. Admission and activities are free for all and on-site parking is available.

Visitor Services Specialist Amanda Wilkinson said the event is turning into a tremendous success for both the community and the refuge. “It’s a day for people to come out, explore and take part in several outdoor recreational activities most of which can be done right here at Felsenthal NWR. Each year, our attendance numbers increase and our exhibitor interest spreads. It’s a free, fun day and we are excited to host this event,” she added.

The festival will showcase exhibitors such as the Arkansas Canoe Club, the Bartholomew Dutch Oven Society, Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources, Arkansaw Reenactors Association, Ashley County 4-H, The Nature Conservancy and many more. Activities through-out the grounds will include: archery, casting, BB shoot, canoeing, games, crafts, rock wall climbing, face painting, fish print t-shirts, water dog demos, living history and other events.

There will be an informal duck calling contest for all ages, raffles for some great prizes and a butterfly release at 11 a.m. A special thank you to the 2013 Festival Sponsors, State Senator Eddie Cheatham, Aaron’s of Crossett, B&B Woods and Water, Duck Calls by Mike Morton, Simmons of Bastrop and other donors for supporting the festival. A special thank you to the Friends of Felsenthal for their hard work and dedication.

For more information contact Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge, 870-364-3167.

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission plays an important role in keeping The Natural State true to its name. During the last 100 years, the agency has overseen the protection, conservation and preservation of various species of fish and wildlife in Arkansas. This is done through habitat management, fish stocking, hunting and fishing regulations, and a host of other programs.