Circular emblem with a blue water wave motif and the association name, conveying a professional maritime identity. Arkansas Waterways Association
(870) 672-1425
Advocating for Arkansas Waterways Since 1995

The Arkansas Waterways Association maintains a growing collection of resources designed to support members, stakeholders, and anyone interested in the vitality of the state's river systems. These materials cover a wide range of topics relevant to waterway commerce, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure development. Whether you are a seasoned industry professional or a newcomer eager to learn, the available resources aim to provide practical knowledge and guidance. The association continues to develop new content in response to emerging needs and member feedback, ensuring that the information remains timely and useful for all who depend on Arkansas waterways for transportation, recreation, and economic activity.

Educational materials form a core part of the resources offered through the association. These include informational guides that explain the role of Arkansas rivers in regional and national supply chains, as well as materials that highlight the environmental importance of maintaining healthy waterway ecosystems. Members can access summaries of relevant legislation, policy updates, and best practices for port and terminal operations. The association also collaborates with industry experts to produce white papers and reports that delve into specific challenges and opportunities facing the waterway community, helping members stay informed and prepared.

For those seeking to deepen their understanding of waterway advocacy and management, the association provides access to archived presentations and workshop materials from past conferences and events. These resources capture the insights of leaders who have shaped waterway policy and development across the region. Topics range from navigation improvements and dredging needs to workforce development and safety standards. By preserving and sharing this knowledge, the association ensures that valuable expertise remains available to current and future generations of waterway advocates, supporting informed decision-making at every level.

The association also curates links and references to external sources of data and analysis relevant to Arkansas waterways. These include government agency reports, river level monitoring tools, and economic impact studies that quantify the value of waterborne commerce. Such resources help members build stronger cases when communicating with policymakers, community leaders, and the public. The ability to reference authoritative data strengthens the collective voice of the waterway community and supports the association's mission to advocate effectively for the long-term viability of Arkansas ports, terminals, and river systems.

Membership in the Arkansas Waterways Association unlocks additional resource benefits, including direct access to staff expertise and a network of peers facing similar challenges. Members are encouraged to share their own experiences and materials, contributing to a collaborative knowledge base that benefits the entire community. The association regularly highlights member-contributed resources through its communications, fostering a culture of shared learning and mutual support. This ongoing exchange of ideas and information helps ensure that Arkansas remains a leader in waterway advocacy and that its rivers continue to serve as vital economic and ecological assets.

Arkansas Waterways Association on Facebook

Stay connected with the latest updates, discussions, and community engagement through the official AWA Facebook group. Members and stakeholders share news, event announcements, and advocacy efforts.

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2019 AWA Conference Information

The 2019 Arkansas Waterways Conference was held on November 7th at 9 a.m. in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Conference materials and speaker details were made available through the association's news page.

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Rivers of Arkansas

Learn about the five major rivers represented by the Arkansas Waterways Association: the Arkansas River, Mississippi River, Red River, Ouachita River, and White River. Each plays a vital role in the region's transportation and economy.

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Contact the Association

For inquiries about membership, advocacy, or general information, reach out to Executive Director Melanie Baden. The association welcomes engagement from stakeholders across Arkansas's waterway community.

Phone: (870) 672-1425

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