LIBBY, Mont. September 17, 2019 – The Lincoln Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is seeking proposals for projects that would enhance forest ecosystems or restore and improve land health and water quality on the Kootenai National Forest. Over 973,000 have been allocated to RAC projects over the past two years. These funds are made available to Lincoln County through the Secure Rural Schools and Self-determination Act. The Act was reauthorized in April 2018 and funds for the approved project proposals are available to be implemented in 2017-18.

The Secure Rural Schools and Self-determination Act provides funding for a variety of activities that benefit federal lands and resources. Title II projects fund work such as watershed restoration, noxious weed abatement, thinning trees, fuels reduction, enhancing recreation sites, and maintaining roads and trails. Individuals, non-profit organizations, and local governments can submit Title II project applications.

Proposal ideas should be directed to each district ranger that the project proposal resides: Rexford/Fortine Ranger District, Three Rivers Ranger District, and the Libby Ranger District. The Rangers will review proposals to determine if their project proposal will meet the requirements and intent of the Act. Project application forms and information regarding the Secure Rural Schools Act are available at http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/pts/home. The deadline for project proposal submission is October 8, 2019.

There will be a meet and greet meeting on October 22, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Libby. There will be a voting meeting on November 20, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Libby to prioritize project proposals. The submitted projects will be considered for the 2019 project year funding with implementation in 2020-21. The public is always welcome to attend the RAC meetings.

For more information on the Committee or to learn more about the RAC, please contact RAC coordinator Katie Andreessen at 406-283-7781.