The Allegheny National Forest is seeking volunteers to serve on the Allegheny Resource Advisory Committee overseeing Elk, Forest, McKean, and Warren counties.

The Resource Advisory Committee reviews and recommends projects that benefit National Forest resources using funding designated by the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act of 2000.

This legislation sets aside funding for projects that improve watershed function and promote community economic development, including critical funding for schools, roads, and other municipal services. Typically, the Allegheny Resource Advisory Committee meets twice a year to review and make recommendations on submitted project proposals.

By law, the four-year term committee is composed of a balanced and broad representation of National Forest-related interests. The Resource Advisory Committee has 9 to 15 members, each assigned to represent one of the following categories:

Category A: organized labor or non-timber forest product harvester groups; developed outdoor recreation, off-highway vehicle users, or commercial recreation activities; energy and mineral development interests; commercial or recreational fishing interests; commercial timber industry; holders of Federal grazing or other land use permits, and representatives of nonindustrial private forest landowners, within the area for which the committee is organized.

Category B: nationally recognized environmental organizations; regionally or locally recognized environmental organizations; dispersed recreational activities; archaeological and historical interests; nationally or regionally recognized wild horse and burro interest groups, wildlife or hunting organizations, and watershed associations.

Category C: holder of State, county or local elected office; representatives of American Indian tribes within or adjacent to the area for which the committee is organized; school officials or teachers; the affected public at large.

Members must reside within Pennsylvania and, to the extent practicable, provide local representation in each category.

To apply, please submit the Form AD-755 and a resume (optional) by email to Dale.Readus@usda.gov, or by mail to ATTN: Dale Readus, 4 Farm Colony Drive, Warren, PA 16365. Applications must be received on or before Aug. 27, 2026.