The Buffalo National River Celebrates 50 Years

About the Show:What do you do with 95,000 Acres and 135+ miles of a river? You create the Buffalo National River and Park. The first National River in the United States was established in 1972. You hear the expression, “Are you going to float the Buffalo?”. You may not fully understand that question for the uninitiated, but for many locals here in Northwest Arkansas, that question takes on a different meaning. Most of the Spring is the best time to float the Buffalo but just about any time of year is a great time to visit this majestic area that covers five rural counties and feeds the White River, which ends at the mighty Mississippi.  We sat down with Terrie Martindale, Board President of the Buffalo National River Partners, and Cassie Branstetter, a U. S. Park Ranger. We discussed the history of the Buffalo National River and the role that the Buffalo National River Partners play as a steward in making sure that the Buffalo National River Park is pristine for all to enjoy.  All of this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Cassie BranstetterEmail Terrie MartindaleWebsite for The Buffalo National River PartnersThe Buffalo National River Partners on InstagramThe Buffalo National River Partners on FacebookWebsite for The Buffalo National RiverThe Buffalo National River on FacebookThe Buffalo National River on InstagramThe Buffalo National River on TwitterInternational Dark Sky Association This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at [email protected] With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:Winetopia 2026Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026