Yes, keeping roadkill in Arkansas is legal under specific conditions outlined by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). The state permits salvage of certain wildlife species if reported within 24 hours and obtained legally, aligning with AGFC’s 2024-2026 wildlife management directives. Permissible species include deer, turkey, and squirrels, provided the carcass is intact and not diseased. Violations risk misdemeanor charges under Arkansas Code § 18-1-102.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Arkansas
- Species Eligibility: Only legally salvageable species (e.g., white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, eastern gray squirrel) may be kept. Protected or endangered species (e.g., black bears, bobcats) are strictly prohibited under AGFC Rule 14.11.
- Reporting Requirement: The carcass must be reported to the AGFC within 24 hours via their online portal or local conservation officer. Failure to report constitutes illegal possession under AGFC Policy Memo 2024-03.
- Possession Limits: A maximum of two salvaged deer or turkey carcasses per person per year is enforced. Squirrels have no limit but require documentation for annual harvest reporting.
Local jurisdictions (e.g., Arkansas Department of Transportation) may impose additional restrictions on roadside retrieval. Always verify county-specific ordinances, as some (e.g., Pulaski County) require permits for off-highway salvage operations. Non-compliance may result in confiscation or citations under Arkansas Code § 27-23-105.