PUBLIC LANDS -- Individuals, non-profit organizations and local governments are invited by the Colville National Forest to submit applications for projects ranging from weed control to road and facilities improvements.

Officials have $638,000 available for this year’s projects to improve the 1.1-million acre forest in northeastern Washington and boost the economies of Ferry, Pend Oreille and Stevens counties.

"Projects must be on or benefit National Forest System Lands by enhancing forest ecosystems, restoring land health and water quality, or improving the maintenance of existing roads or facilities," said Franklin Pemberton, forest spokesman.

"Some past projects include culvert replacement to help fish passage, campground road maintenance to prevent erosion, forest thinning to reduce fire danger and improve forest health, soil stabilization to protect roads and streams and noxious weeds control projects.

"These projects will not only improve the health of our watersheds, but can create jobs and improve the economic conditions in our local communities,” said Rodney Smoldon, Colville National Forest Supervisor.

Project applications must be received by March 9.

Contact Pemberton, the Colville Resource Advisory Committee Coordinator, (509) 684-7177,  email fpemberton@fs.fed.us