Department of Natural Resources Seeking Applications for #Colorado Forest Health Council

Here’s the release from the Colorado Department of Natural Resources (Chris Arend):

The Colorado Department of Natural Resources is seeking applicants to serve on the Colorado Forest Health Council (Council), a volunteer stakeholder body whose role is to provide a collaborative forum to advise the Governor, through the Executive Director of the Department of Natural Resources, and the Colorado General Assembly, on issues, opportunities, and threats to Colorado’s forests.

“Colorado’s forests face unique challenges including climate change, year-round wildfire risk, and population growth. The reconstituted Council, now at the Department of Natural Resources and with increased diverse membership, will have the opportunity to help shape our State’s forest management and wildfire risk management policies and priorities for the future. I encourage interested Coloradans to apply,” said Dan Gibbs, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Natural Resources.

The Council was reconstituted during the Colorado 2021 Legislative Session through SB21-237, and will consist of 26 members, including two state legislators, 18 seats from all corners of Colorado appointed by Governor Polis, along with other agency representatives.

Applications are due August 16, with the Governor’s seat selections due September 2. The Council will meet multiple times per year for half- or full-day meetings with virtual attendance options, with meeting frequency and schedule confirmed by the new council. Applicants should anticipate at least 5 hours of Council-related business per month.

Please note that the council may still be listed under its old name, the “Forest Health Advisory Council,” but will be updated shortly to its new name, the “Colorado Forest Health Council”. Applications submitted under the council’s old name will still be fully considered.