ELKINS, W.Va. – Monongahela National Forest is seeking West Virginia residents interested in serving on the West Virginia Resource Advisory Committee. The committee reviews and recommends projects for Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act Title II funding.
Each member of the 15-person committee represents a specific interest group, serves a 4-year term, and is appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture (or designee). Members serve without compensation but may be allowed travel expenses and per diem for attendance at meetings.
Once a quorum is secured, the committee will review project proposals submitted by local communities, non-profit organizations, state and local governments, and USDA Forest Service staff. The committee then recommends projects for funding to Designated Federal Officer Jack Tribble for final approval. The committee generally meets up to six times a year, every other year.
Past Title II projects have included, but were not limited to, recreation site and trail improvements, wildlife habitat improvement, new interpretive signs, and noxious weed treatments. A call for 2022 Title II project proposals will be made soon.
To be considered, potential members must fill out an interest sheet and background information form. These documents can be found on the West Virginia Resource Advisory Committee webpage at https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/ mnf/workingtogether/ advisorycommittees. Or contact Julie Fosbender, Committee Coordinator, at julie.fosbender@usda.gov or 304-635-4446 for more information and to receive an application package. Be sure to return your application materials to Julie no later than Friday, June 24, 2022.
Additional information about the Secure Rural Schools program can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/ working-with-us/secure-rural- schools.
