The First National River Celebrates 40th Anniversary

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Buffalo National River

First posted on 05-24-2012

Floating the Buffalo River has been favorite pastime for many generations; however, the 1960’s brought a proposed change that would affect the natural beauty of the river, and its cultural heritage. Two dam sites were identified on the Buffalo which prompted conservation groups to organize and voice their concerns for keeping the river natural.In 1972, Congressman John Paul Hammerschmidt proposed a bill, later signed by President Nixon, which placed Buffalo River under the care of the National Park Service to keep the river free-flowing.

To pay tribute to its historical creation, Buffalo National River celebrated its 40th anniversary with two media days organized by community leaders, concessioners, local chambers of commerce, and representatives from the Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism at Tyler Bend Visitor Center and campground pavilion. The two day event kicked-off May 16th with a tour of the Tyler Bend Visitor Center and a barbeque.

On the following day, the media were treated to breakfast and horseback riding before presentations and an address by the keynote speaker, former Congressman John Paul Hammerschmidt. Hammerschmidt was recognized with letters from Congressmen Womack and Crawford and a proclamation from Governor Mike Beebe for his efforts in protecting the river. He later gave his personal insight regarding the continual need to protect Buffalo National River for future generations.

When the speakers concluded their presentations, the audience enjoyed viewing exhibits and a canoe trip sponsored by park concessioners.