(a) There is created a program to be known as the “Wildlife Recreation Facilities Pilot Program”.
(b) The program shall be developed, implemented, and administered by the Rural Services Division of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission with the assistance of the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission.
(c) The purpose of the program is to:
(1) Create better access to outdoor wildlife recreational activities for Arkansans;
(2) Attract tourists for the enjoyment and utilization of wildlife sports, including hunting and fishing;
(3) Ignite interest in the wildlife resources and nature appreciation activities of Arkansas; and
(4) Promote economic development in the state through the use and enjoyment of the state's abundant wildlife resources.
(d) The division and the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission agree to work cooperatively to establish criteria and recommendations for wildlife recreation facilities, including without limitation the development of community ponds, shooting ranges, community fishing, and access areas for fishing for the enjoyment of the wildlife resources of the state by our citizens and visitors to the state who are attracted to Arkansas's abundant wildlife resources.
(e) The division and the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission agree to develop plans and review the needs and requirements for the construction and development of wildlife recreation facilities under the program.
(f) The division, with the assistance and advice of the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission, shall establish criteria for the wildlife recreation facilities by the promulgation of rules in accordance with the Arkansas Administrative Procedure Act, § 25-15-201 et seq., for the development of wildlife recreation facilities in the program.