The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which includes the Methow Ranger District, is accepting proposals for forest improvement projects, funded by the Secure Rural Schools program, until April 19.
Over the past 20 years, almost $12 million has been allocated to projects in Okanogan, Chelan, Kittitas and Yakima Counties through Title II of the Secure Rural Schools Self-Determination Act, according to a U.S. Forest Service press release. Proposals can be submitted by volunteer organizations, interest groups, local governments and others.
Projects selected in the past have included trailhead relocation, noxious weed control projects, road stabilization, trail maintenance and construction of trail bridges, roadside brush cutting, relocation of campsites out of sensitive streamside areas, fire risk reduction, forest road resurfacing, enhancing wildlife habitat, rehabilitation of wetlands, toilet replacements and portable toilet rentals, litter and abandoned vehicle removal, herbicide treatments, culvert replacement and youth-oriented outdoor recreation project work.
Projects will be reviewed and recommended by the Forest’s citizen Resource Advisory Committee. Submission forms are available at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/okawen/rac (scroll to the bottom). Projects proposed on National Forest System lands should be coordinated with the local Ranger District office prior to submitting an application.
Send completed project submission forms to Robin DeMario, robin.demario@usda.gov. Hard copy submissions may be sent to DeMario at Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, 215 Melody Lane, Wenatchee, WA 98801. For more information, contact DeMario at (509) 664-9292.
