Environmental Talks in Arkansas: What You Need to Know

The first big gathering for eco‑issues happens on Feb. 20 at Hendrix College, inside Worsham Hall. The yearly Environmental Policy Summit is now in its tenth year. A host of local groups, from the Arkansas Climate League to the Sierra Club, back this event. The program will run from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m. and will cover energy policy, especially how electricity moves through the grid and wind power rules. The keynote is a highlight. Two Hendrix professors, Dr. Carmen Merrick and Dr. Jennifer Penner, will talk about how spending time outdoors affects mental health. This research is new and ties nature to everyday wellbeing. Attendees will include activists, lawmakers, teachers, and experts.The next meeting is on Mar. 6 in Fairfield Bay. The Arkansas Environmental Education Association will host the Outdoor Education Conference. This year’s theme is “Legacy of the Land: 30 Years of Learning, Leading, and Preserving Arkansas. ” The group is celebrating its 30th anniversary next year. The conference is aimed at a wide range of educators and leaders. Classroom teachers, outdoor guides, professors, and natural resource workers can all join. Sessions cover topics like the Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative, forming partnerships, and adding environmental lessons to school plans. Teachers can earn professional development credits approved by the state. Both events offer chances to learn, network, and influence policy. They bring together people who care about the planet from many backgrounds. Whether you’re a student, a legislator, or someone who loves nature, these meetings give you tools and ideas to help Arkansas stay green.