Polk County Pulse

01/10/2026

The Fresh Perspectives reception at the Mena Art Gallery. The reception goes until 3 p.m. If you can’t make it today, the exhibit runs through Feb. 7.

01/09/2026

Our region of the state should see little, if any, rainfall or threatening weather. We will see temperatures drop with the lows falling to around or just below freezing Sunday and Monday morning.

01/08/2026

The Mena Art Gallery has a new exhibit on display featuring gallery members. The free exhibit, known as Fresh Perspectives, welcomes the new year with recent art from members. It showcases a variety of art styles available for public viewing until Feb. 7.

The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Visit them at 607 Mena St. in downtown Mena.

01/08/2026

These storms passed through the Fort Smith and Fayetteville area about a half hour ago. I wouldn't be surprised if they don't move through the River Valley area. If you're heading up through Russellville or even to Central Arkansas, be on the lookout for severe weather.

01/08/2026

Wind gusts will be a major issue for the state today. Oklahoma is seeing some tornado watches and warnings.

Showers and thunderstorms will be possible this afternoon and evening as a cold front pushes across the state. Damaging winds will be the main threat although a tornado or two cannot be ruled out.

01/07/2026

Five free online webinars this month, beginning Jan. 13,on avian flu for poultry owners.

The strain of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza continues to infect poultry in Arkansas and across the country.

Dr. Dustan Clark, extension poultry health veterinarian, will lead a series of five free online webinars this month, beginning Jan. 13, to help poultry owners better protect their flocks.

Read more: https://bit.ly/hpai-webinars
Sign up for trainings: https://www.uaex.uada.edu/avian-flu

01/07/2026

Students, interested in becoming an FBI Agent? Check this out.

Little Rock is accepting applications for the 2026 Future Agents in Training (FAIT) Program.

More information, including how to apply, can be found at https://ow.ly/LbuG50XS9kw. Applications are due by January 16.

Questions? Contact [email protected].

01/06/2026

Polk County Poll workers needed
Any registered voter who is interested in becoming a poll worker may contact the Polk County Clerk’s Office for more information. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Feel free to stop by the office at 507 Church Ave. in Mena to pick up an application or call 479-394-8123 with any questions.

01/06/2026

UADA Polk County Cooperative Extension has a private pesticide applicator training class coming up.

Reminder!!! We will be offering a Pesticide Applicator Training class on Thursday, January 15. Please register by 1/13. See details on flyer.

01/05/2026

Ward Lake Trails Temporary Closure Begins January 5, 2026
The Ward Lake Trails will be temporarily closed beginning January 5, 2026, to allow for expansion of the trail system. This project will improve connectivity between Queen Wilhelmina State Park, the National Forest Service, and the Ward Lake Trails.

We know these trails are well used and loved by our community, and it was not a decision made lightly. However, the closure is necessary to ensure public safety while construction crews complete the work.

While Ward Lake Trails are closed, the public is encouraged to use alternative options. Trails at Queen Wilhelmina State Park have recently been upgraded, and trails around the Visitor Information Center will remain open.

Thank you for your patience as we work to improve outdoor access and connectivity for our community.

12/31/2025

Burn Bans across Arkansas as well as a link to the moderate and high risk wildfire danger.