RELEASE: REP. HILL’S AMENDMENT TO PERSERVE THE LITTLE RED RIVER PASSES THE HOUSE

This week, Rep. French Hill's amendment to highlight the Little Red River's application to the Sustainable Rivers Program passed the House unanimously. Rep. Hill introduced an amendment to H.R. 4553, the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026, which provides critical funding to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Energy through September 30, 2026.

Rep. Hill said, "The Little Red River is a world-class trout fishery and a cornerstone of Arkansas's outdoor recreation economy. My amendment ensures its application to the Sustainable Rivers Program receives the full and fair consideration it deserves so future generations of Arkansans can enjoy this treasure of the Natural State, just as I have."

Ben Batten, Deputy Director, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, said, "The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's commissioners and leadership are appreciative of Congressman Hill's support of this work on the Little Red River. This is an incredibly valuable resource for the state, and we hope that this project will help us better protect and support the fishery in the future."

Mark Saviers, Board Chair, The Nature Conservancy Arkansas, said, "We greatly appreciate Congressman Hill's leadership and strong support for the Sustainable Rivers Program that helps strengthen our waterways by enhancing fish and wildlife habitat while advancing conservation and outdoor recreation. Through this partnership between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and The Nature Conservancy, we've already seen success on the Cossatot, Black, and Fourche La Fave rivers, and we look forward to continuing this work to ensure our rivers serve both people and nature."

Ed Drilling, President, The Little Red River Foundation, said, "Thank you Congressman Hill for your efforts to obtain this SRP designation for the Little Red River. This will mean a great deal for the fishery and the economies of Cleburne and White Counties."

Background:

Rep. Hill's amendment highlights funding to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Operations and Maintenance account that supports the Sustainable Rivers Program (SRP).

As the Natural State, Arkansas welcomes millions of visitors each year to enjoy its rivers, lakes, and natural beauty. Recreational fishing alone contributes an estimated $1.2 billion and 10,000 jobs to the state's economy. The Little Red River, home to a thriving wild brown trout population, offers more than 25 miles of premier trout fishing and held the world record for brown trout until 2009.

Its inclusion in the SRP would allow the Corps to study water trends and implement stewardship practices to strengthen fisheries and improve long-term river management.