AFI Arkansas Conservation Booth, Black Bear Bonanza - Bentonville, AR

Event Start Date: 3/7/2026 9:00 AM

Event End Date: 3/7/2026 4:00 PM

Arkansas AFI is Hosting a Conservation Booth at the Black Bear Bonanza in Bentonville!

Why You Should Want to Attend:

The Armed Forces Initiative of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is dedicated to turning members of the military community into lifelong conservationists. Join Arkansas AFI at one of the premier outdoor conservation and hunting events in the southern United States — the Black Bear Bonanza at the Benton County Fairgrounds Auditorium Hosted by the Arkansas Chapter of BHA.

This is a great opportunity to learn about the incredible conservation success story of black bear reintroduction in Arkansas while connecting with AFI leaders who live the mission of public-land stewardship every day. Whether you’re a seasoned bear hunter, new outdoorsman, or simply passionate about wildlife conservation, you’ll find engaging conversations, conservation education, and a welcoming community at the AFI booth.

What It Is:

The AFI Conservation Booth at Black Bear Bonanza is an interactive outreach and education space where attendees can learn about wildlife restoration efforts, public land access, and AFI’s mission of building conservation leaders within the military community.

Attendees can expect to:

• Learn about Arkansas’s black bear restoration and conservation efforts

• Meet AFI leaders Dustin Spilman, the Western Region Manager for the AFI National Board, along with Stephen Lonon (Arkansas AFI), and Robert Land (Oklahoma AFI)

• Hear firsthand stories of public land bear hunting and conservation success

• Ask questions about BHA and the Armed Forces Initiative programs

• Purchase AFI merchandise to support veteran-led conservation work

• Participate in raffles and prize drawings

This event blends conservation education with community engagement in a fun, high-energy environment.

When Is It:

Saturday, March 7, 2026
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM CST

Where Is It:

Benton County Fairgrounds Auditorium
7640 SW Regional Airport Blvd
Bentonville, AR 72712

Who Can Attend:

• Open to everyone attending the Black Bear Bonanza

• Military-affiliated members, conservation supporters, hunters, anglers, and families

• Anyone interested in wildlife restoration, public lands, and ethical hunting

You do not need to be a BHA member to stop by (but we’d love to have you join the mission!).

Questions?

Contact Arkansas AFI, arafi@backcountryhunters.org