MENA, Ark. – A memorandum of understanding to begin an exploratory phase of a trail expansion project will be signed at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13, at the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain in Mena. The memorandum, which will be signed by representatives of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, the Ouachita National Forest, the Arkansas Parks and Recreation Foundation, and the city of Mena, will outline the group’s intent to cooperate to explore expanding trail opportunities within and adjacent to Queen Wilhelmina State Park, the Ouachita National Forest and the city of Mena.
If pursued and realized, the trail expansion would represent a significant enhancement of outdoor recreation activities and tourism attractions in the area.
On hand to sign the memorandum will be Stacy Hurst, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism; Felipe Cano, acting deputy forest supervisor for the Ouachita National Forest; Suzanne Grobmyer, executive director of the Arkansas Parks and Recreation Foundation; and Seth Smith, mayor of Mena. The signors and Shea Lewis, director of Arkansas State Parks, will be on hand after the signing to answer questions from members of the media.
For media inquiries, contact Jeff LeMaster, chief of communications of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, at jeff.lemaster@arkansas.gov, or call 501-324-9611.
Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Stacy Hurst serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.
