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Ducks Unlimited (DU) volunteers, board members and conservation leaders from the Arkansas Game and Fish and Governor Huckabee Sanders gathered in Little Rock to celebrate George and Livia Dunklin for their steadfast commitment to conservation.   

George Dunklin’s contributions to Ducks Unlimited are both vast and deeply rooted in a lifetime of service to wetlands and waterfowl. As a former DU President, longtime Board Member, Policy Committee Chairman, and trustee of Wetlands America Trust, George has championed conservation efforts across the continent with unwavering dedication. Yet his heart has always remained in Arkansas. There, he has been a tireless advocate for preserving greentree reservoirs and advancing rice stewardship. Work that has safeguarded some of the state’s most critical waterfowl habitat while supporting the agricultural traditions that define the Arkansas Delta. His leadership has left a lasting imprint on the landscape and on the people who care for it.  

“George embodies the very best of Ducks Unlimited,” said Adam Putnam, DU Chief Executive Officer. “His passion for the Natural State's wetlands and his commitment to the people who depend on them have shaped conservation in ways that will be felt for generations. George doesn’t just support the mission; he lives it every day.”   

A constant companion and partner in purpose, Livia Dunklin was also honored at the event for her profound influence on conservation in Arkansas. Livia’s steadfast support, leadership, and quiet strength have touched countless lives. Whether through her dedicated volunteer work or her hands-on involvement alongside George at the 5 Oaks Ag and Research Center, she has been an anchor in the conservation community. Her commitment has amplified George’s work, strengthened the mission they share, and helped shape a legacy of stewardship that reaches far beyond their own footprints.  

Reflecting on the night, Governor Huckabee Sanders commented. “Honored to celebrate George Dunklin, a national leader in conservation and one of Arkansas’ best! Rooted in faith, family, and stewardship, George embodies the Natural State. Thanks to him and Ducks Unlimited, Arkansas’ fields, forests, and flyways will endure for generations.”  

The evening’s festivities included a video highlighting George and Livia’s lives and their impact on conservation in Arkansas, live and silent auctions and a check presentation from Johnny Morris and Bass Pro Shops announcing a $1 million commitment to Ducks Unlimited, to be paid over the next 5 years. This is part of the Bass Pro Shops | Cabela’s Outdoor Fund support.