SPRINGDALE — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, will host a free one-day workshop for anyone interested in learning about wildlife rehabilitation and the rules concerning rehabilitating native animals in Arkansas at 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. May 21 at the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center. This workshop was originally planned for February but had to be postponed due to inclement weather.
“The workshop was originally filled up, and we’ve sent notice to everyone who had previously registered, but there likely will be some spaces open that others may want to fill,” Dr. Jenn Ballard, state wildlife veterinarian for the AGFC, said. “The workshop is not only for current rehabilitators to learn new techniques and protocols, but for any individuals who are interested in becoming a registered rehabber in Arkansas. Wildlife rehabilitators are independent volunteers who don’t receive any pay or compensation for their work, but we can offer them professional assistance and facilitate training to help them fulfill their passion.”
Certification from the AGFC is required to rehabilitate native mammals, reptiles or amphibians in the state. Other species, such as eagles, hawks, waterfowl and songbirds, require special training and certification at the federal level. This workshop will cover which species may be rehabilitated as well as the bigger picture of how wildlife rehabilitation can support conservation in Arkansas.
In addition to presentations, two speakers from the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council will discuss basic principles of wildlife rehabilitation and a few topics of interest to rehabbers.
Registration is limited to the first 40 people who sign up through the AGFC’s event calendar at https://www.register-ed.com/events/view/182413. Lunch will be provided, thanks to the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation who has teamed up to partner with the IWRC and AGFC to host the event.
Visit https://www.register-ed.com/events/view/182413 to register for this workshop. Additional resources about wildlife rehabilitation are available at www.agfc.com/rehab.
About the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center: This 32,000-square foot facility on 61 acres is the newest place to learn about the natural world and outdoor recreation in Northwest Arkansas. It is the ninth nature center developed by the AGFC with the help of the Amendment 75 Conservation Sales Fund. Learn more about the Ozark Highlands Nature Center at www.agfc.com/ozarkhighlands or follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JBJHFOHNC.