KAMIAH, Idaho, April 08, 2024—Do you have a passion for public lands and want to make
a positive impact in north central Idaho communities? If so, we want you to apply for one of
nine open positions on the North Central Idaho Resource Advisory Committee (RAC).
According to Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests Supervisor Cheryl Probert, the Resource
Advisory Committee is a valuable partner because it is comprised of people who care deeply
about their community and bring a diversity of experiences and perspectives. The group works
collaboratively to review and recommend restoration and enhancement projects for lands within
north central Idaho.
“The projects that have been recommended by the Resource Advisory Committee result in
positive environmental impacts as well as contribute to local communities and economies,”
Probert stated. “We sincerely value those individuals who give up their time to serve.”
The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 authorized payments
to counties based on revenue generated from land uses and activities on national forest system
lands. It also established 15-person Resource Advisory Committees, appointed by the Secretary
of Agriculture, to evaluate and recommend projects that are on, or benefit federal lands.
The committees, by design, are inclusive and diverse. Membership is segmented into three
distinct categories—labor and industry; environmental and dispersed recreation; and elected
officials, education, tribal and citizens. Each category has five subcategories.
North Central RAC members must reside within the State of Idaho, and ideally are familiar with
national forest system lands and issues within Clearwater, Idaho, Latah, Lewis and Nez Perce
Counties. Committee members typically attend two-four meetings per year and serve four-year
terms. While time is not compensated, travel expenses typically are.
Individuals with an interest in serving are encouraged to learn more at the Forests’ website
(https://rb.gy/7l3jnw) where they can find a Membership Interest Form and an AD-755
application. Questions and/or completed forms can be emailed to sm.fs.npclwrac@usda.gov.
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by May 15.
The Forest currently has more than $670,000 in funds for the RAC to allocate. “Citizens from
this area are very service-minded,” Probert said.” “We look forward to a timely and robust
response to our call for volunteers so we can resume this important work in the near future.”