David Pryor, former Governor of Arkansas and member of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, is considered one of the Big Three in the history of Arkansas politics. Pryor’s years serving at the state and federal levels resulted in landmark achievements in conservation, advancing the outdoors experience enjoyed today throughout Arkansas.
Mark Karnes, The Ross Foundation: Directing the foundation’s land management program for its 60,000 diverse acres of timber land, Karnes has helped protect unique sections of the forest and, working in partnership with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, developed acres for use as a wildlife management area and other recreational activities.
Every worthwhile effort in our society has been sparked by visionary men and women who were not satisfied with the status quo but sought a better answer or way. Such a person was John M. Olin inventor, industrialist, philanthropist, sportsman, conservationist, and champion of private enterprise1. He came along when hunting was emerging from a household necessity into an outdoor sport.
Simon worked for The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in Arkansas for 26 years and served as the Arkansas Director for 19 years. He also helped to develop the Arkansas Prescribed Fire Course with Martin Blaney at the AGFC
A former Arkansas Game and Fish commissioner, Hinkle served 14 years on the board of the National Wild Turkey Federation, ultimately serving as president of the national chapter of the organization. During that time, he worked for the expansion and improvement of habitat throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada through various NWTF initiatives.
Owner and former president of Xpress Boats, an enterprise with a family-run beginning, he revolutionized the way fishing and hunting boats were made. Herndon set new standards in strength and durability in boats for outdoors enthusiasts.
Longtime owner of Gaston’s White River Resort, Gaston has been in the forefront of Arkansas’ world-acclaimed trout fishing activities more than 35 years, with a leading role in promotion of tourism for all the state as well as his home area.
Jerry Fisk is a master bladesmith and internationally recognized artist. A contributing editor of Blade Magazine, Jerry’s list of accomplishments and awards for his craft is long and his work can be found in museums around the world. He serves as advisor to the Arkansas Department of Heritage, is a member of the Bladesmith Hall of Fame and was named a National Living Treasure by the University of North Carolina at Williamsburg’s Museum of World Cultures. He and his wife, Lorraine, live in Nashville, Arkansas.
George Dunklin is a past AGFC Commissioner, the current Ducks Unlimited President, and lifelong conservationist. A third generation rice farmer, George is a strong advocate for rice agriculture in the region. He has followed his family tradition of farming, hunting and conservation. A Pine Bluff native, he has three grown daughters with his wife, Livia and lives in Stuttgart.
Joel Campora, AGFC Wildlife Officer First Class, alongside Sherriff Cody Carpenter responded to a 911 call during overnight flashfloods in 2013. Both officers lost their lives in the line of duty attempting to save two Y City victims trapped in their home by severe floodwaters. A wildlife officer since 2007, Joel considered a life as a game warden “a dream.” Originally from Mena, he was a member of the AGFC Dive Team and the Disaster Response Team. Joel is survived by his wife Rebecca and their two daughters.