Salem, Ore. -- A committee advising Oregon Department of Forestry staff on forest operations, projects and activities is currently seeking applications to fill two vacancies.

Formed in 2001, the State Forests Advisory Committee provides input on the implementation of forest management plans in northwest and southwest Oregon. The committee represents a diverse range of forestry interests and serves as a forum to discuss agency opportunities for achieving forest management goals in these areas.

The committee specifically covers issues related to ODF district Annual Operations Plans, best practices for balancing a range of forest benefits, strategies for improving public outreach and participation, and other technical forest management topics.

The two new members will serve three-year terms beginning in April 2018. There is one vacancy for a position representing the environmental community and a vacancy in a non-affiliated position.

"This is an opportunity for Oregonians to get involved in today's forestry conversation and provide insight and perspectives on how we are implementing the forest management plans. We look forward to hosting a diverse and experienced committee in the coming months," said Andy White, Northwest Oregon Area Director for the Oregon Department of Forestry.

SFAC members attend three meetings per year and a summer field tour, and agendas are usually scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

To apply, complete a questionnaire (http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Working/Documents/SFACApplicationQuestionnaire2018.pdf) by March 19 and submit to April Davis at the Oregon Department of Forestry by email to april.r.davis@oregon.gov or mail to 801 Gales Creek Rd., Forest Grove, OR 97116.

For specific questions about the committee, please contact Andy White at 503-359-7496 or andrew.t.white@oregon.gov. Additional SFAC background information can be found here (http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Board/Pages/SFAC.aspx).