Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest seeks members for Resource Advisory Committee

WENATCHEE — The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is seeking eight volunteers to serve on the Wenatchee-Okanogan Resource Advisory Committee (RAC).

The 15-member committee provides recommendations for how Title II funds are allocated to projects in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and the Tonasket Ranger District of the Colville National Forest.

Title II funds are part of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act, which provides funding to counties for schools, roads, and other services. reviewed and recommended by a local Resource Advisory Committee.

These projects help maintain roads and trails, restore watersheds, enhance habitat, reduce invasive species, and otherwise benefit National Forest System lands. The RAC reviews project applications and recommends investments that support both local communities and public lands.

“Resource Advisory Committees are essential partners in helping us invest Secure Rural Schools Title II funds where they matter most. Their recommendations ensure projects reflect local priorities,” said Tara Umphries, Forest Supervisor.

The Forest Service is interested in applicants who represent one or more of the following interests or related fields: organized labor or non-timber forest product harvester groups, energy and mineral development or commercial or recreational fishing groups, dispersed recreational activities, archaeological and historical interests, nationally recognized environmental organizations, regionally or locally recognized environmental organizations, state-elected office, county or local-elected office, and Tribes within or adjacent to the area the RAC serves.

Committee members are nominated by the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and must be approved by the Secretary of Agriculture. Members must reside in Washington State and, to the extent practicable, within Okanogan, Chelan, Kittitas, or Yakima counties.

Members serve four-year terms and are expected to participate in RAC meetings, typically held two days per year in Wenatchee, Washington. While in-person participation is encouraged, virtual options are available.

More information about serving on the Wenatchee-Okanogan Resource Advisory Committee, Title II, and the Secure Rural Schools Act is available on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website. Those interested may also email Seth Kammer, Partnership Coordinator, at seth.kammer@usda.gov. Applications will be accepted through December 4, 2026.

“We’re grateful for the diverse perspectives RAC members bring, and we encourage anyone interested in supporting public lands and their communities to apply,” added Umphries.