March 12, 2002
Contact: Sheri Bell 303.239.3670

BLM SEEKS ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking nominations to fill openings on three Resource Advisory Councils (RAC) in Colorado. The councils provide advice and recommendations to BLM on the use and management of 8.4 million acres of public lands in the state.

In 1995, BLM established councils in Colorado representing three geographic areas: Northwest, Southwest, and Front Range. The RACs enable citizens to have a meaningful say in how public lands are managed. Members give advice to BLM on the broad array of resource, social, and economic issues that confront land managers and local communities.

Colorado State Director Ann Morgan appreciates the contributions made by current and previous members. "They represent a broad array of backgrounds, interests, and experience. The councils have consistently made recommendations to BLM that have proven to be insightful, well-reasoned, and on target."

The councils operate on principles of collaboration and consensus. Members are sought who are committed to working together with other interests for the long term benefit of public lands and the people who enjoy and rely on them. Each council consists of 15 members, selectively balanced and representative of three general interest groups:

Group 1 - holders of federal grazing permits/leases; representatives of mining, timber, off-road vehicle use, and commercial recreation;

Group 2 - representatives of recognized national or regional environmental or resource conservation organizations; archeological and historical interests; wild horse and burro groups; and dispersed recreational activities;

Group 3 - state, county, or local elected officials; employees of state agencies responsible for management of natural resources, land or water; representatives of Indian tribes; academicians involved in natural sciences, and the public at large.

Qualifications for RAC membership are based on the nominee's:

• education, training, or experience to give informed, objective advice on an industry, discipline, or interest;
• experience or knowledge of the geographical area the council serves;
• demonstrated commitment to collaboration in seeking solution to resource management issues.

Council members must be residents of Colorado. Each year, one-third of the membership is up for renewal or replacement. Terms are for three years.

The Northwest RAC has two openings in Group One; one opening in Group Two; and two openings in Group Three.

The Southwest RAC has three openings in Group One; two openings in Group Two; and one opening in Group Three.

The Front Range RAC has one opening in Group One; two openings in Group Two; and two openings in Group Three.

BLM provides training on resource science and management issues to all council members. Members serve without monetary compensations, but are reimbursed for travel and per diem expenses.

Members are expected to attend RAC meetings called by the designated federal officer. Meetings usually occur no more often than every other month. Location of the meetings could vary throughout the state, and may include tours. Meetings will normally be held Monday through Friday, and may last more than one day.

Individuals may nominate themselves or others. Letters of reference from the interests or organizations the nominee wishes to represent must accompany the nomination form. Nominations will be accepted through April 22, 2002.

The State Director will consult with the Governor prior to forwarding the recommendations of the Secretary of the Interior for her final decision on appointments.

Nomination forms and additional information are available from the following:

BLM Northwest RAC, Attention: Larry Porter, e-mail larry_porter@co.blm.gov
2815 H Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81506 (Phone 970.244.3012)

BLM Southwest RAC, Attention: Larry Porter, e-mail larry_porter@co.blm.gov
2815 H Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81506 (Phone 970.244.3012)

BLM Front Range RAC, Attention: Ken Smith, e-mail ken_smith@co.blm.gov
3170 E. Main St., Cañon City, CO 81212 (Phone 719.269.8553)

BLM Colorado State Office, Attention: Sheri Bell, e-mail sheri_bell@co.blm.gov
2850 Youngfield Street, Lakewood, CO 80215 (Phone 303.239.3670)

You may also download the nomination form-which follows. However, you may not submit the form electronically. A dated, original signature is required. Please mail your completed form, along with letter(s) of reference to the appropriate BLM office listed above.

Resource Advisory Council Background Information Nomination Form

Name of council to be considered for: (Circle One)

Front Range Council

Northwest Council

Southwest Council

Nominee's Full Name:

Business Address:

 

Home Address:

 

Business Phone:

Home Phone:

Occupation/Title:

Education: (colleges, degrees, major field of study):

 

Career Highlights: Significant related experience, civic and professional activities, elected offices (if term expires, prior advisory committee experience or career achievements related to the interest to be represented). Attach additional pages as necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Education, training and/or experience:

Experience or knowledge of the council's geographic area of jurisdiction:

Experience in working with disparate groups to achieve collaborative solutions (e.g., civic organizations, planning commissions, school boards):

Indicate Specific Area of Interest to be Represented:

I hold a Federal grazing permit, or other land use permit within the area for which the RAC is organized

I represent energy and mineral development interests

I represent commercial timber industry interests

I represent transportation or rights-of-way, off-highway vehicle use, or commercial recreation interests

I represent a nationally or regionally recognized environmental organization

I represent archaeological and historic interests

I represent dispersed recreation interests

I represent wild horse and burro groups

I hold State elected office

I hold county, or local elected office

I am an employee of a State agency responsible for management of natural resources

I am an academician involved in natural sciences

I represent Indian tribes 

I represent the public-at-large

Indicate any BLM permits, leases or licenses that you hold:

Attach Letters of References from interests or organizations to be represented (required):

Nominated by:

Name Address, and Phone Number:

Privacy Act Statement: The authority to request this information is contained in 5 U.S.C. 301, the Federal Advisory Committee Act, and Part 1784 of Title 43, Code of Federal Regulations. It is used by the appointment officer to determine education, training, and experience related to possible service on a Resource Advisory Council of the Bureau of Land Management. If you are appointed as an advisor, the information will be retained by the appointing official as long as you serve. Otherwise, it will be destroyed 2 years after termination of your membership or returned (if requested) following announcement of the Council appointments. Completion of this form is voluntary. However, failure to complete any or all items will inhibit fair evaluation of your qualifications, and could result in you (or your nominee) not receiving full consideration for appointment.

Signature:

Date: