Putting the Natural in Natural State
Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04)
Each fall, Arkansas’ natural beauty is on full display, highlighting the majesty of our rolling hills, rivers, and forests. This week, with cooler temperatures and changing leaves, Arkansans are eager to get outside and explore. Whether it’s hiking a trail in the Ozark Mountains, cruising the Scenic 7 Byway, or just taking in the beauty of the Arkansas Grand Canyon, there’s something for everyone in the Natural State.
This week, I was grateful for the opportunity to get outside and explore the Fourth District. As an avid outdoorsman, there’s nothing quite like getting up on a chilly, early morning to spot some wild elk in Boxley Valley before spending the afternoon hiking along trails that lead to incredible views like Hawksbill Crag, where miles and miles of leaves in every shade of amber can be seen.
My love for the great outdoors and Arkansas’ abundant recreation opportunities are why I am proud to have been able to introduce the EXPLORE Act, which is now law. This legislation expands access and improvements to outdoor recreation and infrastructure. Specifically, it supports rural towns across Arkansas and America that act as gateway communities to beloved campsites, trailheads, bike trails, and more. By doing so, it helps these local communities address the housing shortages and outdated infrastructure that often directly result from heavy volumes of tourists.
Beyond ensuring our local communities are equipped with the resources they need to host an abundance of visitors, this law also works to restore campgrounds, protect rock climbing locations, create long-distance bike trails, increase broadband connectivity, and improve accessibility for our service members, veterans, children, and visitors with disabilities.
Growing up in Arkansas gave me a great appreciation for our natural heritage. It’s a goal of mine in Congress to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the same wonder and beauty here in our own backyard and across the country. October is one of the most beautiful months of the year for the Natural State, and my hope is that every Arkansan can find time to get outside and explore this beautiful state we all have the privilege to call our home.