$537k in wildlife fines donated to schools by Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — More than $530,000 was awarded through grants by the Arkansas Economic Development of Commission Division of Rural Services to schools throughout the state, according to a news release.
$537,209 came from wildlife fines collected by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. AGFC does not use any money from wildlife violation fines in operating costs or capital expenditures.
Instead, the money is distributed to conservation districts and schools through grants that are focused on conservation education in the state.
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“The best way to prevent future violations is to instill a love of the resource in our future hunters, anglers and outdoors enthusiasts and teach them why it’s so important to follow the regulations,” AGFC Director Austin Booth said.
Schools in 67 of the state’s 75 counties received grants and 240 awards were made, according to Becca Caldwell, director of Rural Services for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.
AGFC Assistant Chief of Education JJ Gladden said the money has been a success for many schools, especially those in rural areas with limited budgets.
For a full list of recipients, visit ArkansasEDC.com.
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