For Release: March 5, 2004
Contact: John Dearing (916) 978-4622 or John Scull (916) 985-4474
CCal-04-15

BLM HAS OPENINGS ON CENTRAL CALIFORNIA RESOURCE ADVISORY COUNCIL

The Bureau of Land Management is seeking nominations for membership on the Central California Resource Advisory Council (RAC), a citizen panel that provides advice to the agency's managers. Nominations will be accepted until Monday, April 19.

There are two openings in membership category one, which includes federal livestock grazing permit holders, and those representing timber, minerals, energy, transportation and rights-of-way interests.

There is one opening in category two, where members represent wild horse and burro interest groups, history and archaeology interests, environmental groups or dispersed recreation interests.

One full-term opening in membership category three is available, which includes the public-at-large, elected officials, the academic sector, tribal interests, and state agencies responsible for natural resource management.

"The Council is invaluable in providing insight and advice to our Central California managers," said BLM California State Director Mike Pool. "This annual appointment process provides the opportunity for new members to become involved, and for current members to continue their service."

The Central California council works with BLM managers in Folsom, Hollister, Bakersfield and Bishop, providing advice on management of public lands in Central California.

Nomination forms are available from BLM offices in Bakersfield, (661) 391-6000; Hollister, (831) 630-5000, Bishop, (760) 872-4881 or Folsom, (916) 985-4474. They are also available online at www.ca.blm.gov/news/rac.html.

Completed forms and supporting letters should be sent to:

Bureau of Land Management
63 Natoma Street
Folsom, CA 95630
Attention: Advisory Council Nominations.

Nominees will be evaluated on their experience, education, and training, and their knowledge of the area served by the RAC. They should have a commitment to collaborative decision making, and a willingness to work with disparate groups to address natural resource issues. Meetings are usually held quarterly. Members are appointed by the Secretary of the Interior to serve three-year terms without salary, but are reimbursed for expenses. They are eligible for reappointment. Members of the Central California council must be residents of California.

For more information, contact John Scull (916) 985-4474.

-BLM-

California State Office - 2800 Cottage Way - Sacramento, California 95825