LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission unanimously approved a special permit that outlines the rules for removing and collecting items from the lakebed of Lake Conway during its renovation.
According to AGFC Deputy Director Ben Batten removal of objects from Commission property is normally prohibited, but many people have expressed interest in collecting objects found on Lake Conway’s lakebed while it is drained. The new Item Removal Permit will enable curious Arkansans to enjoy this added benefit of the temporary drawdown without causing lasting damage to the property or disturbing historical artifacts.
“We’ve already seen a few people walking around on the lakebed since the water level has dropped and a Facebook group focused on the items people find during the renovation has gotten more than 4,000 members in a short amount of time,” Batten said.
The permit, which will be available at www.agfc.com/lakeconway within the next few days, must be printed and carried by anyone on the lakebed and outlines the rules for removal of objects on the lakebed. Permit holders may only access the lakebed between sunrise and sunset and may not use any motorized vehicles. Metal detectors are allowed, but only hand tools may be used to dig and any holes must be less than 3 feet wide and no more than 12 inches deep. No property or possessions may be left overnight and all disturbed areas must be filled and returned to their natural state before sundown each day. Any archeological, cultural or historical artifacts, including Native American artifacts may not be removed or disturbed in accordance with federal and state laws.
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