QUINCY, Calif., January 14, 2016 – Plumas National Forest officials are seeking to fill 15 seats on a federal advisory committee (RAC) responsible for selected projects on federal land within Plumas County.
“RACs are a great way for interested local community members to engage in a public lands dialogue and recommend resource projects funded by this legislation,” said Acting Forest Supervisor Daniel Lovato.
Once appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, the RAC will review projects to recommend for funding consideration by the Plumas National Forest Supervisor. Just under $500,000 will be available for projects to be initiated by September 2017 and funding obligated by September 2018.
RACs were established as a provision of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000. By law the four-year term, 15-member committee is composed of a wide representation of national forest interests organized into the three categories. An additional member is also appointed as a replacement should a committee member leave for any reason.
RAC projects must have broad community-based support with objectives that may include, but are not limited to, road, trail and infrastructure maintenance or obliteration; soil productivity improvements; improvements in forest ecosystem health; watershed restoration and maintenance; restoration, maintenance and improvement of wildlife and fish habitat; control of noxious and exotic weeds; hazardous fuels reduction; and reintroduction of native species.
Projects must be on public land but can occur on private land if it can be demonstrated that there is a benefit to public land resources.
Applicants can apply for the Plumas RAC membership by contacting Lee Anne Schramel, public affairs officer, (530) 283-7850. Applicants must complete a cover letter, interest form and an FBI background check form prior to being considered for the committee. Information about the Secure Rural Schools legislation and RACs may be found at: http://fs.usda.gov/main/pts/home .
