Forest now taking applications for RAC projects
The Flathead National Forest on behalf of the Flathead County Resource Advisory Committee, is now accepting new project proposals. The application deadline is Feb. 19 and the committee has approximately $200,000 in project funding to award. Funding and administration for the Flathead County Resource Advisory Committee is provided under the authority of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self–Determination Act. Last year’s submissions funded under this authority included projects like weed spraying, lake and stream monitoring, dust abatement, signage, education events, and vault toilets.
The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act funds activities that benefit Federal lands and resources in the benefiting county. The funds are designed to make investments in public lands and create additional employment opportunities through projects that improve the maintenance of existing infrastructure, implement stewardship objectives that enhance forest ecosystems, and restore and improve land health and water quality. These projects are also designed to improve cooperative relationships among the people that use and care for public lands and the agencies that manage these lands.
Individuals are encouraged to submit their proposals as soon as possible. It is the responsibility of the proponent to coordinate with Forest Service staff and all other partners prior to submitting the proposal to ensure it is complete and meets the intent of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act. Please visit the Forest’s website for the application.
To submit a final project proposal, or for more information or details about how to submit an application, contact Flathead National Forest Resource Advisory Committee Coordinator Janette Turk at (406) 758-5335 or janette.turk@usda.gov.
The Flathead County Resource Advisory Committee will meet to hear proposals and make funding recommendations by quorum vote. Meeting dates have not been finalized. The Advisory Committee is comprised of a group of local citizens.