Our Work Begins With the River
From scientific research to community partnerships, the Little Red River Foundation works to understand, protect, and improve the river's health for generations to come.
Protecting the River. Preserving Its Future
Protecting the Little Red River requires more than appreciation for its beauty. It takes research, informed decisions, strong partnerships, and a community committed to its future.
The Little Red River Foundation advocates for science-based water management below Greers Ferry Dam to help protect the river's trout fishery, local communities, and future generations.
Why The Little Red River Needs Protection?
The Little Red River is a living ecosystem shaped by water flows, temperature, and aquatic habitat. Changes in these conditions can affect trout populations, wildlife, and the communities that depend on the river.
Protecting the Little Red River begins with understanding these challenges and recognizing why long-term conservation matters.
What Research Helps Us Understand?
Effective conservation begins with reliable information.
By studying trout populations, spawning behavior, movement, and habitat conditions, researchers can better understand how the river is changing and what its fishery needs to thrive.
Scientific findings help inform discussions about fisheries management and long-term river health.
What Is the Sustainable Rivers Program?
The Sustainable Rivers Program is a national partnership between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and The Nature Conservancy. It brings together scientists, water managers, and local stakeholders to study how existing dams can be operated in ways that better support river ecosystems while continuing to meet authorized needs such as flood protection, power generation, and water supply.
For the Little Red River, participation could create a science-based path to evaluating the timing and amount of water released below Greers Ferry Dam. The goal is better conditions for trout, aquatic insects, spawning habitat, and the overall health of the river - without promising a particular flow change before the necessary studies are completed.
How the Foundation Is Moving This Forward
Since 2024, the Foundation has worked to bring the Little Red River's needs to the attention of federal officials, state agencies, and conservation partners. Our efforts have included:
Working directly with Congressman French Hill and his staff to raise the river's profile and seek full consideration for SRP.
Engaging the offices of Senator John Boozman and Senator Tom Cotton as we pursue support for the program and its funding.
Meeting and communicating with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and The Nature Conservancy about the river's needs and possible next steps.
Coordinating with Trout Unlimited Chapter 722, Arkansas Fly Fishers, Mid-South Fly Fishers, and other river advocates to strengthen public understanding and support.
Explaining to decision-makers that a healthier river protects not only the fishery but also guides, local businesses, tourism, property owners, and surrounding communities.
A Milestone and Work Still Ahead
In September 2025, Congressman Hill announced that the U.S. House had unanimously approved his amendment highlighting the Little Red River's application to the Sustainable Rivers Program. It was an important public recognition of the river's value and the case for further study.
That step was not the same as securing final project funding or completing SRP implementation. The Foundation has continued advocating for adequate national SRP funding and for the Little Red to advance through the Corps' review and project process. We will keep supporters informed as decisions are made.
Why Your Support Matters
Improving a river does not happen through one meeting or one letter. It takes sustained relationships, careful research, cooperation among agencies, and a clear voice for the people who care about the Little Red. The Foundation is a volunteer-led nonprofit helping provide that voice.
You can help. A contribution to the Little Red River Foundation supports our ongoing advocacy, conservation partnerships, and work to protect the fishery. Join us as a donor or supporter, follow our updates, and share the importance of this effort with others who value the river.
LRRF Contributes $30,000 to UAPB Research
The Little Red River Foundation supports research at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), including work led by Dr. Steve Lochmann examining brown trout diets, movement, spawning, and population changes.
These studies help researchers better understand the challenges facing the Little Red River's trout fishery and provide valuable information to guide future conservation efforts.
RESEARCH AT UAPB
Water Management & Conservation
HEALTHY FLOWS, HEALTHY HABITAT
Water releases from Greers Ferry Dam play an important role in shaping conditions along the Little Red River.
Changes in water flow can affect water temperature, aquatic habitat, trout populations, and recreational opportunities.
The Little Red River Foundation advocates for improved river flow management and supports efforts to protect the conditions needed for a healthy, sustainable fishery.
Explore research and reporting that help explain the science behind the Little Red River's trout fishery.
Research & Educational Sources
