Committee accepting proposals

The Mineral County Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) will begin accepting project proposals this month for implementation in 2011 or 2012. Projects must provide benefit to National Forest System lands and ecosystems within Mineral County. The RAC will allocate approximately $110,000 in project funding during this process.

The application deadline for project proposals is February 28, 2011 at 4 p.m. Application packets for submitting a project are available at the Superior Ranger District office. Packets may be picked up there, or mailed/e-mailed to applicants. Please contact the Superior Ranger District Office at (406) 822-4233 for details.  All project proposals must be submitted to the Superior Ranger District office. Project proponents will be invited to present their proposal to one of several upcoming RAC meetings.

Established under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS Act) of 2000, the Mineral County Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) has authority to recommend how Title II funds should be spent. Projects that qualify for Title II funding may occur on federal or non-federal land but must show a direct benefit to National Forest System lands.

The Act specifies that project objectives may include: roads, trails, infrastructure maintenance or obliteration; soil productivity improvement; improvements in forest ecosystem health; watershed restoration and maintenance; maintenance and improvement of wildlife and fish habitat; control of noxious and exotic weeds, and re-establishment of native species. At least 50 percent of all Title II funds must be used for projects that are primarily dedicated to road maintenance, decommissioning, or obliteration; or restoration of streams and watersheds.

The first RAC meeting for 2011 will be January 27th at 6:00 p.m. at the Superior Ranger District.