Section 15-11-702 - FindingsThe General Assembly finds that:
(1) Arkansas is a state of natural cultural and scenic beauty, natural resources, and wildlife;(2) Enjoyment of the natural cultural and scenic beauty, the natural resources, and the observation of wildlife in Arkansas is a favorite pastime of many;(3) There will be a positive impact on the physical, intellectual, and emotional development of our youth through enhanced access to the state's natural resources and wildlife by establishing wildlife observation trails in local communities;(4) The potential for growth in the tourism sector of the economy through the development of wildlife observation trails is significant;(5) The growth of the economy through the development of wildlife observation trails is "green growth" that is good for the environment;(6) The development of wildlife observation trails is also good for encouraging and promoting a healthy lifestyle for our citizens;(7) Wildlife observation trails rank high among the list of local amenities that an industry desires when it considers locating within the state;(8) In permitted hunting and fishing areas of the state, the creation of wildlife observation trials can improve access to those activities; and(9) The Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism and the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission are interested in continuing a Wildlife Observation Trails Pilot Program to ignite interest in the natural cultural and scenic beauty and natural resources of Arkansas and to promote economic development in a healthy and environmentally sound manner.Amended by Act 2019, No. 910,§ 5649, eff. 7/1/2019.Acts 2009, No. 686, § 1; 2011, No. 1041, § 2.