4 minute read
THE NATURAL STATE GUIDE
A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion
We sit down to talk all things outdoors with Arkansas Game and Fish commissioner Anne Marie Doramus
GROWING UP, ANNE MARIE DORAMUS SPENT SUMMERS ON THE ARKANSAS RIVER AND FALL AND WINTER AT HER FAMILY’S DUCK CLUB NEAR STUTTGART.
“I have three older brothers, and I wanted to keep up with them,” says the Little Rock native. “I really took to the outdoors right off the bat. I liked the atmosphere and wanted to go every chance I got,” she adds.
Today, Anne Marie, who is a graduate of the University of Arkansas, spends her days as vice president of business development at Arkansas Bolt, a fastener and hardware distributor; however, the passion those childhood experiences stirred hasn’t waned. She continues to be an avid duck hunter (who enjoys having a workable dog) as well as a bass fisher and bow hunter, among other endeavors. “I have fun doing it, and the industry I work in is predominantly male, so hunting and fishing are often commonalities I get to share with clients,” she says.
While her love for the outdoors remains apparent, she never imagined being appointed an Arkansas Game and Fish commissioner. “When I got the call to go to Governor Hutchinon’s office it was unreal and unbelievable,” she says. “This is a highly soughtafter position, and it’s very humbling to me to be named one of the commissioners.” Anne Marie is now serving a seven-year term, which began in 2019 and marked the first time a woman was appointed to a full term with the AGFC. “I have been blown away by the women I’ve met and their interest in hunting and fishing. It’s pretty amazing to watch,” she says.
Commissioners are charged with conserving and enhancing fish and wildlife habitats as well as educating Arkansans on their use, and they play a vital role in continuing Arkansas’s legacy of outstanding outdoor attractions. “This is a constant learning experience for me. I’m not going to know everything, but I do want to do my best,” she says. She also notes that commissioners, herself included, want to be approachable and easy to reach for Arkansans’ questions as well as to share stories. “I love it when people reach out to share a photo of a fishing trip or the story of their niece harvesting her first deer. It makes it so worthwhile,” she says. Turn to page 49 for Anne Marie’s favorite ways to enjoy and explore Arkansas outdoors.
—Anne Marie Doramus
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4 Ways to Enjoy the Natural State
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just dipping your toe in the water, Anne Marie shares four ways to get outside in Arkansas
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1. JOIN THE GIRLS Want to learn more about how you can take part in all things outdoors? Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (known as BOW) is designed for women 18 and older who want to learn more about hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities in an encouraging group setting. “This is a nationwide program, but Arkansas has had great success with it,” Anne Marie says. “We have such a diverse landscape that there are lots of opportunities for education and for women to come together.” From courses on fly fishing and camping to deer processing and trailering skills, there’s no shortage of activities to expand your knowledge. Search “Becoming an Outdoors-Woman” at agfc.com to learn more.
2. EXPLORE A NATURE CENTER Touted as “part classroom, part museum, part playground,” the nine AGFC Nature and Education Centers around Arkansas are designed to help you experience the best of the Natural State. With locations from Springdale to Pine Bluff, there are easily accessible opportunities for you to join in on the fun (and learning!) in a variety of ways, from trails to hands-on activities and exhibits. Search “Nature and Education Centers” at agfc.com to learn more.
3. GRAB A FISHING POLE Young or old, there’s nothing quite like hooking a big one on your line. Within the central Arkansas area, there are more than 30 easy-to-access fishing holes, making it the perfect way to spend a few hours with your family. Anne Marie notes the trout waters are particularly great during the fall on the White River, the Little Red River, and on the Beaver Lake Tailwater. Remember a fishing license is required for those 16 and older; and if you’re harvesting trout, you’ll also need a trout permit. Learn more at agfc.com/fishing.
4. HIT THE TARGET WITH YOUTHS “We have one of the best shooting sports programs in the country for high schoolers and middle schoolers,” Anne Marie says, noting the popularity of both archery and trap shooting. The Arkansas National Archery in the Schools Program is for students as young as fourth grade up to high school seniors and aims to teach them a hobby they can enjoy for a lifetime. Learn more at agfc.com/anasp.
