Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment

06/17/2026

Inviting Arkansas recently featured Scott Ausbrooks, our State Geologist and Director of the Office of the State Geologist at the Department of Energy & Environment.

Scott’s journey from an early fascination with geology to leading statewide geological initiatives reflects a lifelong commitment to science and public service. His academic foundation at University of Arkansas at Little Rock, combined with decades of applied experience, continues to advance Arkansas’ understanding of its natural resources.

Proud to see his story highlighted! Read more: https://invitingarkansas.com/about-town/ua-little-rock-leader-scott-ausbrooks/

Scott Ausbrooks Director of the Office of the State Geologist and State Geologist B.S. Geology | B.S. Surveying & Land Information Systems 2001   A friend and fellow Marine who was a student at UA Little Rock knew about my interest in the earth sciences. He encouraged me…Scott Ausbrooks Director ...

06/08/2026

The Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment was pleased to welcome AIPRO and educators from across the state to our North Little Rock headquarters for the 2026 Arkansas Energy Rocks! Teacher Energy Education Workshop.

AIPRO led an outstanding two‑day program, and our E&E subject‑matter experts were proud to contribute sessions on Arkansas' geology, environmental quality, and oil and gas regulation. Teachers also participated in hands‑on activities and toured Flywheel Energy’s Damascus facilities to see natural gas operations up close.

We appreciate AIPRO’s leadership in advancing energy literacy and were glad to support the workshop by providing both space and expertise. We’re grateful for the opportunity to support Arkansas educators!

🎥 Watch our video recap

06/05/2026

🔥 Thinking about burning that pile of yard waste? Before you light that match, take a beat.

Burning leaves and branches might seem convenient, but smoke, safety risks, and air quality issues can turn it into a real problem. And remember — burning household trash like plastics or treated wood is illegal and releases harmful chemicals that can trigger asthma, headaches, and other health issues.

Visit our website: https://www.adeq.state.ar.us/air/compliance/yardwaste.aspx

🎥 Watch our latest Inside E&E video to learn more.
https://youtu.be/xs20OOpUsRE

🔥 Thinking about burning that pile of yard waste? Before you light ...

05/26/2026

The progress demonstrated by Standard Lithium and Smackover Lithium reflects years of technical work and a strong commitment to the Natural State. As the nation’s leading lithium project, it highlights Arkansas’s leadership in building a secure and responsible domestic lithium supply chain. With lithium playing an increasingly vital role in national energy and security priorities, Arkansas remains committed to supporting responsible development and strengthening America’s energy future.

05/25/2026

Today we pause to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. E&E offices are closed in observance of Memorial Day.

05/14/2026

EPA continues cooperative federalism with our state partners as we assembled more than 50 officials across 12 agencies in 5 states for our quarterly meeting in Austin, TX. Special thanks to Chairman Wright and the Railroad Commission of Texas for hosting us at your offices. Together we can better protect our environment and public health while growing the economy.

Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment
Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality
Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy
New Mexico Environment Department
Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department
Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality
Oklahoma Corporation Commission
Oklahoma Water Resources Board
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Railroad Commission of Texas
Texas Water Development Board
Texas Oil and Gas Association

05/09/2026

Remediation efforts continue in Fort Smith. You can stay up to date on the latest local efforts at fortsmithcleanup.com.

Additionally, the EPA has published a comprehensive StoryMap detailing the site’s status and the environmental strategies being deployed: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/bf9e021c2df04ba99b268af019ce9275

Fort Smith, AR

04/30/2026

🌟 Arkansas on the Rise: Energy Spotlight

The EPA’s South Central Region notes that Arkansas has more than 5 million tons of lithium in the Smackover brines. Arkansas is quickly becoming a national leader in lithium production, strengthening the Natural State’s role in America’s energy future.

Arkansas also ranks second in the nation for residential natural gas prices, giving families some of the most affordable energy costs in the country.

👇 Check out more fast facts below and see how Arkansas is powering progress.

04/27/2026

Better together! 💚 Last week, 34 of our amazing staff members spent their time volunteering for Earth Day cleanups across the state.

Check out the highlights from our teams at:
📍 Creekmore Park (Fort Smith) City of Fort Smith, Arkansas
📍 Big Dam Bridge (Little Rock)
📍 Oil and Gas Commission (El Dorado)

We love our local communities and are happy to do our part to keep them clean.

View the recap of the day!

04/24/2026

Happy Arbor Day! 🌳 Trees are the lungs of our planet—they clean our air, provide shade, and support wildlife. If you can, plant a tree today, or donate to a reforestation project!