The Deschutes-Ochoco Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is soliciting proposals for funding under Title II of the Secure Rural Schools Act. Project proposals will be accepted through July 31, 2024. Forms and instructions on submitting project proposals can be found on the Deschutes-Ochoco Resource Advisory Committee website: fs.usda.gov/detail/deschutes/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=fseprd1027685.
Projects are considered for Title II funding if they make additional investments in, and create employment opportunities through:
- Improvement of existing infrastructure maintenance;
- Implementation of stewardship objectives that enhance forest ecosystems; and
- Restoration and improvement of land health and water quality.
By law, Title II projects must provide direct or indirect benefits to natural resources on National Forest lands. Previous projects have accomplished watershed restoration, stream stabilization, invasive plant treatments, native plant reestablishment, wildlife and fish habitat improvements, enhanced soil productivity, and road maintenance.
Individuals and organizations are encouraged to submit project proposals as early as possible. It is the responsibility of the proponent to coordinate with Forest Service staff and partner agencies to ensure that the proposal is complete and meets the intent of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act. To ensure project viability and consistency with SRS requirements, the proposals must also be pre-approved by the district ranger or forest supervisor where the project resides before being submitted.
The Deschutes-Ochoco RAC, which represents a wide variety of citizen interests, will review all proposals, and recommend projects for funding. Proponents will be notified of the RAC meeting schedule and are encouraged to attend the meetings, which are open to the public, to present on their project and answer questions. Additional information about the Secure Rural Schools Act can be found at fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/secure-rural-schools.
For those interested in volunteering as a RAC member, there are two current vacancies that can be filled by those representing one of the following interest groups:
- Organized labor or non-timber forest product harvest groups
- Energy and mineral development, or commercial or recreational fishing interests
- Commercial timber industry.
- Federal grazing permits or other land use permit holders or represent nonindustrial private forest landowners within the area for which the committee is organized.
- State elected office (or a designee).
- American Indian tribes within or adjacent to the area for which the committee is organized.
- Area school officials or teachers.
- Affected public-at-large.
Application information and forms can be found at fs.usda.gov/detail/deschutes/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=fseprd1027677.
Questions can be directed to Alex Enna, Deschutes-Ochoco Resource Advisory Committee Coordinator, at alexander.enna@usda.gov.
