The Great American Eclipse is coming to Newton County on April 8. A large number of visitors are anticipated to arrive days before the event to get a choice viewing space. Some property owners are considering opening their pastures or meadows for camping. The Arkansas Department of Health has issued a number of suggestions pertaining to outdoor gatherings.
These were shared with members of the Newton County Local Emergency Planning Committee Monday, Feb. 12, during the group's regular meeting. The committee will be meeting twice in April, Monday, April 1, to discuss what preparations the county needs to make before the eclipse, and again on Monday, April 15, to review how the county performed during the eclipse and taking note of what worked and what did not. Lessons learned may be used to cope with unplanned emergency situations in the future.
In addition, The Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment has produced a flyer urging communities to plan for an influx of travelers. It has made recommendations for land owners, service station operators and for solid waste management following the event.
