MOUNTAIN HOME, Ark. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is preparing to temporarily adjust services at Bull Shoals and Norfork Lakes beginning May 12, 2025 because of staffing shortages and safety concerns. This proactive measure is for visitor safety and will allow USACE to focus resources on other priority areas.
To address these challenges, the district is prioritizing efforts to maintain safe, high-quality experiences for all guests. Existing staff will shift their focus to core recreation operations, ensuring that parks remain accessible and well-maintained.
The Mountain Home Project Office hours will be reduced to Tuesday and Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A temporary moratorium for Shoreline Use Permit requests, including dock and vegetative management permits, will be in effect until Oct. 1, 2025. This will allow the project office to refocus available staff to support the peak recreation season.
USACE has carefully evaluated all available options to align staffing levels with operational needs. Decisions took both short-term and long-term priorities into account.
As conditions change or additional resources become available, USACE will reassess and make the necessary adjustments.
The reduction in services will remain in effect until staffing levels improve and conditions allow for safe, sustainable operations. The Little Rock District appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation as it adapts to evolving needs.
Recreation information can be found on the Internet at www.swl.usace.army.mil, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/littlerockusace and on X at www.X.com/usacelittlerock.
Release no. 25-051