Public Input Sought for New Buffalo National River Management Plan

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The National Park Service has begun developing a new River Management Plan for Buffalo National River in Arkansas. The plan will update the river's 1983 management guidelines and seek public input on strategies to enhance visitor experiences, manage recreational use, and guide facility development while protecting the river's natural and cultural qualities.

Why it matters

Buffalo National River is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, drawing millions of visitors each year. Developing a new long-term management plan will help ensure the river's natural resources are protected while still providing opportunities for meaningful visitor experiences along the river corridor.

The details

The new River Management Plan will provide a framework for future decisions supporting a range of river-based recreational opportunities and visitor experiences. Park officials are seeking public feedback on preliminary management strategies, including ideas related to enhancing visitor experiences, managing recreational use, and guiding facility development.

• The public engagement period lasts through April 10, 2026.
• In-person open house meetings are scheduled for March 16, 17, and 19, 2026.
• A virtual public meeting is scheduled for March 31, 2026.

What’s next

The National Park Service will use public input gathered during the engagement period to develop a draft River Management Plan, which will then be released for additional public review and comment.