Rep. French Hill’s bill, H.R. 1612, known as the Flatside Wilderness Additions Act, has successfully passed the House of Representatives through a voice vote. The legislation aims to expand the Flatside Wilderness Area in central Arkansas by approximately 2,200 acres.
The bill is a continuation of efforts that began with the 1984 Arkansas Wilderness Act and represents a bipartisan commitment to conserving Arkansas’s natural landscapes for future generations. Rep. Hill stated, “For over 40 years, Arkansas leaders have worked to secure the future of the Flatside Wilderness. My legislation completes that vision.”
Hill expressed pride in completing what former Sen. Dale Bumpers and his predecessor, Rep. Ed Bethune, started decades ago and acknowledged support from Governor Sanders and local leaders.
In 2019, Hill previously succeeded in adding 640 acres to the Flatside Wilderness Area under legislation signed by President Trump. The current expansion proposal is based on recommendations from a U.S. Forest Service study directed by Congress that same year.
The Flatside Wilderness Area is part of the Ouachita National Forest, spanning central Arkansas into eastern Oklahoma and is noted for its rugged terrain and views attracting hikers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Governor Sarah Sanders endorsed the bill saying it complements her administration’s Natural State Initiative aimed at boosting tourism and outdoor activities while preserving natural beauty.
Chris Racey from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission thanked Congressman Hill for his efforts to expand wild lands, while Anders Reynolds from the Southern Environmental Law Center praised Hill’s leadership on this bill.
Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde highlighted benefits such as enhanced access to recreation and tourism while preserving scenic beauty. Perry County Judge Larry Blackmon also supported the expansion citing its attraction for visitors nationwide.
Brian Thompson of the Ozark Society welcomed additions like Cedar Creek Watershed lands for long-term protection, while Jill Gottesman from The Wilderness Society emphasized improvements in protection and manageability of wilderness areas due to this expansion.
