ROLLA, Mo., —Mark Twain National Forest is recruiting people to serve on the Eleven Point Resource Advisory Committee (RAC). This committee was established by the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act. The USDA Forest Service is seeking 15 individuals, representing a wide range of Forest connections, to volunteer to serve on this meaningful committee.
More information about the Secure Rural Schools Self-Determination Act, the Eleven Point RAC, and how to apply can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/main/mtnf/workingtogether/advisorycommittees.
Completed application packets should be submitted prior to December 30, 2024, by email to sm.fs.r9mt11srsrac@usda.gov or a hardcopy can be mailed to Michael Crump, Deputy Forest Supervisor, 401 Fairgrounds Rd., Rolla, MO 65401.
The Eleven Point RAC was established to improve collaborative relationships among people who use and care for national forests and provide advice and recommendations to the USDA Forest Service concerning projects and funding consistent with Title II. Serving on this committee provides a great experience to connect with others that care about their public lands, and an opportunity to help guide natural resource improvements. In recent years, the Eleven Point RAC approved 8 projects aimed at watershed restoration, stream stabilization, wildlife and fish habitat improvements, reduced sedimentation in waterways, trail rehab, and road maintenance. These projects support Mark Twain National Forest’s goals of restoring Missouri’s natural communities and maintaining a healthy and productive forest for future generations.
Committee selections will be made so that members represent a balanced perspective across a variety of interest areas. Members can represent recreation users, environmental organizations, elected officials, tribal representatives, school officials, natural resource industries, and many other Forest connections. RAC members must reside within the State of Missouri, and emphasis is given to residents within the 29 counties containing Mark Twain National Forest lands. Nominees will be evaluated based on their education, training, their experience working with the interest area they represent, their knowledge of the geographic area, their commitment to collaborative resource decision-making, and their contribution to the balance and diversity of the RAC. Selected candidates will serve a 4-year term. RAC business is normally conducted during 2 or 3 meetings per year, lasting 1 to 2 hours each, and are typically held at the Forest’s headquarters in Rolla.
Any questions about serving on the RAC can be sent to the Forest’s Partnership Coordinator, Kimberly Houf, at Kimberly.houf@usda.gov or 573-261-9714.