Washington Advisors Needed 2008

Organization:

BLM

BLM Office:

Oregon/Washington State Office

Media Contact:

Pam Robbins

There are five openings for people to advise and recommend management strategies for federal lands in Eastern Washington. The Eastern Washington Resource Advisory Council (RAC) focuses on public land planning and issues on lands administered by the BLM and the US Forest Service east of the Cascade Range. BLM Oregon State Director Ed Shepard said, “With the great demands on public lands and resources, we need interested citizens to serve on these RACs. Many people rely on the health and productivity of those lands for their work and play. The RAC has been effective partners in resolving on-the-ground issues because the members care about these lands and the quality of life in the Evergreen State." Nominations for these key advisors will be accepted through April 14, 2008. The Federal Advisory Committee Act requires RACs to be balanced and represent the variety of interests concerned with public land management. Expired terms this year include representatives of: energy and minerals, transportation/rights-of-way, commercial recreation and/or off-highway vehicle users (OHV), local and regional environmental groups, and archaeological or historical interests. Washington residents may apply or be nominated by others, and current members may be renominated. Nominations must include a completed background information nomination form, letter(s) of reference from the interest category to be represented, and any other information that demonstrates the nominee's qualifications. Nominees will be evaluated based on their experience working with the interest area they choose to represent, and their knowledge of the Council's geographic area. Nominees must also have demonstrated a commitment to collaborative resource decision-making. Council members are unpaid, but are reimbursed for travel and per diem expenses. RACs usually meet quarterly within their geographic area. Appointees serve a three year term. For a nomination form or additional information, please contact Pam Robbins, Bureau of Land Management (pam_robbins @ or.blm.gov), P.O. Box 2965, Portland, Oregon, (503) 808-6306, or the BLM Spokane District Office, (509) 536-1200.


The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.