Public Encouraged to Submit Applications for Ottawa National Forest Project Fund

IRONWOOD, MI - Tuesday, February 1, 2011 – The Gogebic Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is seeking applications for projects that would enhance forest ecosystems or restore and improve land health and water quality on the Ottawa National Forest and other nearby lands in Gogebic County. Project proposals are due by March 31, 2011.

According to Acting Ottawa Forest Supervisor Keith Lannom, “The Gogebic RAC will make recommendations on how to spend nearly $175,000 of Title II funds.” This federal government funding is made available to Gogebic County through the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (Public Law 110-343.)

The Gogebic RAC will work closely with the Ottawa to recommend projects that will benefit forest health, fish, wildlife, soils, watersheds and other resources; maintain roads, trails, and other infrastructure; or control noxious weeds.

Project applications must be submitted electronically (e-mail to lklaus@fs.fed.us) or mailed hard copy to Ottawa Forest Headquarters, Attn: Lisa Klaus, E6248 US Hwy. 2, Ironwood, MI 49938. Project application forms are available at the Ottawa National Forest web site ( www.fs.usda.gov/ottawa) or from the Ottawa National Forest’s Ironwood office. Instructions for completing the required Title II form also are available online. The Gogebic RAC will begin reviewing projects for possible funding during their Spring meeting. The public is welcome to attend RAC meetings.

For more information on the Gogebic RAC, or to learn more about proposing projects, please contact RAC Coordinator Lisa Klaus at 906-932-1330, ext. 328 or go on line to www.fs.fed.us/srs.

The Gogebic RAC recently reviewed previously submitted Title II project proposals and made recommendations to the Forest Service on 10 proposals. Final determination on selected projects is the responsibility of the Forest Service. An announcement on those projects is expected soon.