[Kristi Schroeder]
PLACERVILLE, Calif. – The El Dorado County Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is accepting proposals for projects to benefit federal lands in El Dorado County. The due date is April 15, 2022. To be eligible, projects must benefit lands in the Eldorado National Forest or Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit lands.
Applications are welcome for projects that have broad-based support and objectives that may include, but are not limited to: road, trail, and infrastructure maintenance or obliteration; soil productivity improvement; improvements in ecosystem health; watershed restoration and maintenance; restoration, maintenance and improvement of wildlife and fish habitat; control of noxious and exotic weeds; and reestablishment of native grasses. At least 50% of the funds must be used for projects that are primarily dedicated to road maintenance, decommissioning, or obliteration; or restoration of streams and watersheds.
Currently, approximately $118,000 is projected to be available for eligible projects.
The RAC is a 15-member committee representing diverse views and partners and is appointed by the Secretary of the United States Department of Agricultural to provide advice and recommend funding projects consistent with the Title II of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act 2000 (reauthorized in November 2021). Funds may be used for creating 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.
Applications, instructions, project evaluation criteria, and other information are found on the
El Dorado County RAC website. A letter of support from the local District Ranger or other federal representative is required with the application.
Completed project application package should be submitted electronically to:
SM.FS.ElDoradoRAC@usda.gov **Note: updated email address**
- Application deadline: April 15, 2022 (by 4:30 pm)
The RAC committee will recommend eligible projects to the appropriate Designated Federal Official.
Applicants with questions on submitting a project can contact Kristi Schroeder, kristi.schroeder@usda.gov.
Please visit the following websites for more information on the Secure Rural Schools program and Resource Advisory Committees (RACs):
- USDA Forest Service – Secure Rural Schools Program
- El Dorado County RAC / Eldorado National Forest website