Local projects sought for federal resource funding
The Daily Inter Lake
The Flathead National Forest is revving up for another round of projects to be selected by a local Resource Advisory Committee.
Congress recently reauthorized the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act, providing counties with funding through 2011.
The Flathead County committee will receive $300,000 for a variety of projects to be carried in cooperation with the Flathead National Forest.
The committee is soliciting project proposals for 2009, with suggestions due by Feb. 9.
About 50 percent of the funding is expected to go toward road, trail and watershed restoration projects.
Previous projects include forest thinning and tree-planting work; road and trail improvements; noxious weed control; recreation restoration and maintenance; education and outreach; and fish and wildlife habitat enhancement.
"Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that provide economic benefit to the community, create partnerships, have public visibility and contribute to overall forest health, visitor enjoyment and the educational value of public lands," a press release stated.
The committee is made up of 15 community members with a diverse representation, including outdoor recreation, the wood products industry and environmental organizations along with local school and elected officials.
Project proposals can be submitted by calling Denise Germann, the Flathead Forest's public affairs officer, at 758-5252 or on the Flathead Forest Web site at: