SAGUACHE COUNTY—The Saguache 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 Rio Grande and Gunnison National Forests and other nearby lands in Saguache County. Currently, the RAC has more than $510,000 to spend on projects this year. These funds are made available to the counties through the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (Title II). The RAC is funded annually until 2011 with slightly declining amounts each year.

The RAC works closely with the Forest Service representatives to recommend projects that will benefit forest health, fish, wildlife, soils, watersheds and other resources; maintain roads, trails, and other infrastructure; and/or control noxious weeds. Projects must be developed in coordination with the local Forest Service District Ranger and County representatives to ensure that the proposals are implementable and appropriate on national forest lands.

RAC projects must be located on National Forest System Lands or other nearby lands in Saguache County. Proposed projects must benefit the resources on the National Forests and must go through an environmental analysis as required by the National Environmental Policy Act. Projects can be completed by Forest Service personnel, through partnership agreements or by open-bid contracting with individuals and corporations. Federal procurement and contracting regulations are required.

RAC project proposal forms and instructions are available at Forest Service offices in Saguache, Gunnison, and Monte Vista or on the Rio Grande National Forest website at www.fs.fed.us/r2/riogrande. Proposals received after August 30 will be considered during the next review cycle. Some of the criteria that the RAC is considering to evaluate proposals include: how the project meets Title II requirements; incorporation of partnerships and financing leveraging; County and Forest Service support and collaboration in the proposal; accomplishments on the land to benefit wildlife, forest health, erosion control, control of noxious weeds, stream and watershed health; cost effectiveness; and complete information and descriptions with cost estimates and ready-to-implement proposals.

The RAC will begin reviewing projects for possible funding at their next meeting currently planned for October 6. The public is welcome to attend the RAC meetings. For more information on the Committee or to learn more about proposing projects please contact any of the following people: Andrew Archuleta, RAC Designated Federal Officer, at 719-655-6115; Mike Blakeman, RAC Coordinator, at 719-852-6212.