Committee approves resolution recognizing waterfowl and habitat value

The Senate Agriculture, Forestry & Economic Development Committee moved to pass House Concurrent Resolution 1014, which recognizes the value of waterfowl and waterfowl habitat to Arkansas's economy, recreation and heritage.

Sponsor Representative Peterson told the committee the three-page resolution celebrates duck hunters and supports efforts to boost waterfowl habitat and the associated economic activity. When asked whether the resolution was connected to a separate proposal to increase license fees tied to a public-private partnership between Game and Fish and Ducks Unlimited, Peterson said it was not: "This is strictly to celebrate duck hunting," he said.

A senator asked for a clarification on a geographic reference in the resolution (a river name), and participants located the watercourse through several counties. No members of the public signed up to speak for or against the resolution.

The committee approved the resolution by voice vote, and the sponsor thanked members for their support. The measure proceeds to further consideration as a nonbinding expression of the legislature's view.