2018-05-23 Meeting with Gina Owens, US Forest ServiceMeeting with Gina Owens, U.S. Forest Service
May 23, 2018
10:04 a.m.
Present: Commissioner Fund, Commissioner Jackson, Commissioner Stamper, U.S. Forest Service Forest
Supervisor Gina Owens and U.S. Forest Service Community Engagement Staff Officer Tracy Calizon,
Jonathan Meyer (10:59 a.m.)
Recorder: Rieva Lester
U.S. Forest Service Forest Supervisor Gina Owens and U.S.
Forest Service Community Engagement Staff Officer Tracy
Calizon discussed their experience.
Gina said the Forest Service wants to discuss Resource
Advisory Committees (RACs) for Secure Rural Schools.
Gina said the Forest Service is considering consolidating the
north (Lewis County) and south (Skamania, Cowlitz, Klickitat
and Yakima counties) RACs. She said the move would increase
efficiency, streamline efforts and ease recruitment troubles
She said she would have to recruit 46 applicants to fill both
RACs separately.
Gina said the new charter allows the RACs to provide advice and counsel to the Forest Service on
recreation fees. She noted that state fees have not increased in pace with cost increases.
Tracy said a national-level charter is being renewed for RACs across the U.S.
Gina said the proposed merger would not affect Lewis County’s Title II money.
Gina said she has met with Skamania County, which has offered support contingent on funding and
representation.
Commissioner Stamper said he supports the idea but fears that some in Packwood may not.
Gina said fees haven’t increased in 12 years, despite cost of living increases and inflation.
Gina and Tracy discussed the need for the north and south RACs to band together to improve the
region’s future.
Gina said she would like to hear the BOCC’s stance by month’s end.
Commissioner Stamper said he would visit Packwood to discuss the proposal.
TO-DO LIST / RECAP
BOCC: Contact Gina Owens and
Tracy Calizon and let them know
BOCC’s stance on the potential
merger.
Gina Owens and Tracy Calizon:
Determine current RAC
membership.
Tracy said the consolidation of the RACs would dissolve the existing RACs and create a new one,
meaning current members of each would have to reapply.
Gina and Tracy said Lewis and Skamania counties are the two big players.
Gina said the combined RAC would have 15 members and three alternatives.
Gina said the north end has some ATV trails.
Commissioner Jackson left at 10:57 a.m.
Gina said the Cowlitz Basin ORV Club has asked to expand the use area.
Jonathan Meyer joined at 10:59 a.m.
Meeting ended at 11:03 a.m.