MISSOULA, MT, Feb. 13—The Missoula Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is now accepting project proposals for 2023. The project submission deadline is 5:00 p.m. MST on May 12, 2023. Funding and administration for the Missoula RAC is provided under the authority of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self–Determination Act.
Last year, the Missoula RAC funded seven projects under this authority that included fish habitat restoration, avalanche education, a river ambassador program, road maintenance, trails improvement and management, and Front Country Rangers.
The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act funds activities that benefit federal lands and resources in Missoula County. The Title II funds are designed to make investments in public lands and create additional employment opportunities through projects that improve the maintenance of existing infrastructure, implement stewardship objectives that enhance forest ecosystems, and restore and improve land health and water quality. These projects are also designed to improve cooperative relationships among the people that use and care for public lands and the agencies that manage these lands. At least 50% of all funds must be used for projects primarily dedicated to restoring streams and watersheds, and road maintenance, decommissioning, or removal.
Individuals are encouraged to submit their proposals as soon as possible. It is the responsibility of the project proponent to coordinate with Forest Service staff and all other partners prior to submitting the proposal to ensure it is complete and meets the intent of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act. Please visit the Forest’s Resource Advisory Committee website for the application and more information.
The Missoula Resource Advisory Committee will meet in the summer of 2023 to hear proposals and make funding recommendations. Meeting dates have not yet been finalized. The RAC is comprised of a group of local citizens. For more information or details on submitting a project proposal, contact Rachel Santospirito, Missoula RAC Coordinator, at Rachel.Santospirito@usda.gov.
