Oklahoma
Invasive black carp confirmed in Oklahoma after turning up in McCurtain County pond
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KOKH) — An invasive fish species has been found in Oklahoma.
On Tuesday, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife confirmed the first invasive black carp was found in the state.
Black carp are large fish native to East Asia that were imported to the United States in the 1970s as a control agent for snail pests in agricultural ponds.
The fish escaped captivity and made it to the Mississippi River basin, where they have wreaked havoc for decades, consuming and vying for habitat with native species.
ODWC confirmed the first report of a black carp was found within a private pond in McCurtain County.
Carp feed on mussels and snails and have the potential to “seriously impact” an already imperiled native mussel species, according to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife.
The importation and possession of black carp is illegal in Oklahoma.
If you catch a black carp, ODWC said you need to kill it, keep it on ice, and report it to them.
Oklahoma
Bryant DE Samuel Nelson commits to Oklahoma | Whole Hog Sports
Oklahoma
Oklahoma House designates April 2026 as Library Month in Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma House of Representatives has approved House Resolution 1054, designating April 2026 as Library Month in Oklahoma.
The resolution was filed by Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa, and recognizes the role libraries play in supporting education, workforce development, access to technology and community engagement across the state.
April 29 was also observed as Library Day at the Capitol, hosted by McCane in partnership with the Oklahoma Libraries Association and the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. The event provided an opportunity for residents, library professionals and lawmakers to connect and discuss the impact of library services.
“I am so excited to host the first ever Library Day at the Capitol to help advocate for our libraries and library staff,” McCane said. “Together, we can ensure that libraries continue to thrive and serve as vital resources for generations to come.”
State officials emphasized that libraries serve as critical community resources, offering educational programming, workforce support and access to information. They also highlighted libraries as “third places,” providing spaces for community interaction outside of home and work.
Library representatives from across Oklahoma participated in the event, showcasing programs such as early literacy initiatives and STEM education opportunities, particularly in rural areas.
Officials said the designation and event aim to raise awareness of the role libraries play in improving literacy, supporting communities and expanding access to resources statewide.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma Senate District 38 candidate Barry Christian reported missing in Beckham County
SAYRE, Okla. (KOKH) — The Beckham County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public to be on the lookout for Barry Christian, who went missing on Tuesday.
The Sheriff’s Office said Christian’s last known contact was yesterday, after he failed to appear for a scheduled meeting, and his current whereabouts are unknown.
Christian is described as a 54-year-old white male, approximately 6 ft tall and 230 lbs with blue eyes and grey hair.
Authorities said Christian is believed to be driving a charcoal gray 2024 Ram pickup.
Oklahoma Senate District 38 candidate Barry Christian reported missing in Beckham County
If you have any information on Christian’s whereabouts, please contact your local law enforcement agency immediately or call the Sayre Police Department at 580-928-2122.
Christian is currently a candidate for Oklahoma Senate District 38.
Christian is currently running for a seat in the Oklahoma Senate.
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