Conservationist/Businesswoman/ Mother
As the first woman appointed to a full-term as commissioner of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, a term that ended in June, Anne Marie Doramus has made history in more ways than one. Known as a tireless community servant and, through her family’s company Arkansas Bolt Co., a member of the business community, she is most passionate about conserving Arkansas’ wild spaces. She enjoys the wilds as often as possible with her husband, Joe, and daughters Liza and Olivia.
What did it mean to you to be the first woman appointed to the AGFC for a full term?
It meant a great deal to me. I am proud to have represented one of hunting and fishing’s fastest-growing demographics, and I hope my service inspires more women and young people to get outdoors.
What was accomplished during your time as a commissioner that you Are most proud of?
I am proud to have been part of a commission that launched and advanced so many important conservation initiatives. If I had to choose three, they would be the restoration of Lake Conway, the green tree reservoir renovations and Generation Conservation. Each represents an investment in the future of Arkansas conservation — our habitat, our wildlife and the next generation of Arkansans who will care for them.
You are a lifelong Arkansas outdoorswoman. What did your AGFC service reveal to you about Arkansas’ outdoors?
Just how much opportunity we have in the Natural State. We are incredibly fortunate to have access to so many different types of public land, rivers, lakes and streams. Serving on the commission gave me an even greater appreciation for the diversity of Arkansas’s landscape and the work that goes into protecting and managing those places for everyone to enjoy.
How can we increase the level of outdoor participation by women in Arkansas?
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has fantastic education programs, and our Becoming an Outdoors Woman program is a great place to start. I encourage women to visit the AGFC website or one of our nature centers to learn more.
I also encourage them to visit their local outdoors stores. The people who work there possess a wealth of knowledge and are often more than willing to help point you in the right direction. Sometimes all it takes is having someone show you where to begin.
How has becoming a mother deepened your view of the outdoors?
Becoming a mother is the greatest title I have, and it has given conservation an even deeper meaning. I grew up loving the outdoors, but now I look at these wild places and wild things through the eyes of my girls. I want them to grow up with the same opportunities I had — to see wildlife, explore the woods, hunt and fish, and simply enjoy being outside.
My girls and I already spend quite a bit of time outdoors, whether we’re walking through the neighborhood pointing out birds and trees or they’re riding along with me while I put out game cameras. I’ve learned that their appreciation for the outdoors starts with those little experiences. If I can teach them to love it, hopefully one day, they’ll want to protect it too.
The monthly “Diamonds” feature shares the lives and views of a diverse roster of proud Arkansans who are doing amazing things and are outstanding representatives of the Natural State. To nominate someone, email dwain@aymag.com.
