LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders today announced the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and the Northwest Arkansas Council will be conducting a comprehensive water reclamation study for the purpose of informing the Arkansas Water Plan and guiding future wastewater infrastructure improvements and investments throughout Northwest Arkansas.
The study will be conducted by Hawkins-Weir Engineers, who will evaluate the current infrastructure in Northwest Arkansas and provide recommendations for improvements, as the population in Northwest Arkansas continues to grow.
“Arkansas is growing, and nowhere do we see that more than in Northwest Arkansas,” said Governor Sanders. “That growth brings opportunity but also new challenges, which is why my administration has stepped up with a complete review of the state water plan and administration of more than $2.6 billion in water system upgrades. This comprehensive study for our state’s fastest-growing region will add to those efforts and help ensure Arkansas can continue to welcome new residents with the resources they expect and need.”
“This partnership with the Northwest Arkansas Council reflects the collaboration needed to effectively and efficiently guide infrastructure investments in an area of rapid growth while ensuring availability of critical water resources for future generations,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward.
“Northwest Arkansas’s ability to grow depends on how we plan and invest in critical infrastructure,” said Nelson Peacock, President and CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Council. “This wastewater study is an essential first step to understand the region’s future needs. Some cities are already constrained by sewer capacity. Without a coordinated strategy, we risk stalled development, public health challenges, and higher costs across the state. By planning together, we can ensure every community has the capacity it needs to grow.”
“This study will help ensure that Northwest Arkansas communities can grow while protecting vital water resources,” said Chris Colclasure, Director of the Department’s Natural Resources Division. “By aligning regional planning with the state’s water priorities, we are creating a model for addressing infrastructure challenges across Arkansas.”
The study will cost $1,049,000 and consist of three phases: development, engagement, and implementation.
In 2023, Governor Sanders issued Executive Order 23-27, initiating a comprehensive review of and update to the Arkansas Water Plan, guiding the state’s management of water resources, water supply, water demand, water quality, and more.
Since taking office, Governor Sanders has prioritized strengthening Arkansas’ water infrastructure in every corner of the state, with more than $2.6 billion in state and federal funds invested in water projects across all 75 counties.
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