State recruiting members to serve on the Recreation and Conservation Funding Board

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office is recruiting for two new members for its Recreation and Conservation Funding Board, which awards grants to improve parks, trails, boating amenities and access to shorelines. It also awards grants to conserve working lands, such as farms and forests, and to protect pristine wildlife and natural areas.

During the course of a two-year budget cycle, the board will distribute more than $140 million in grant funding.

“This board supports a huge investment in Washington’s quality of life,” said Governor Jay Inslee, who will select the board’s new members. “If you’ve hiked a backcountry trail, thrown a ball around at your neighborhood park, or simply appreciated Washington’s breathtaking natural beauty – you’ve experienced first-hand this board’s impact for everyone who lives in or visits our state.”

Supported by the state’s Recreation and Conservation Office, the board oversees nearly a dozen state and federal grant programs, awarding grants to cities, counties, tribal governments, nonprofits, state agencies and others. The board sets the policies and criteria to ensure projects meet state, local and national priorities and approves projects for funding.

“Tasked with giving out grants to improve what makes Washington so great, this board is truly one of the best volunteer jobs in state government,” said Kaleen Cottingham, director of the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. “If you’ve been wanting to make a big impact on our state’s outdoors, this is an incredible opportunity to make a difference.”

In addition, the board adopts plans that establish statewide priorities for outdoor recreation and completes studies on a range of topics including public ownership of lands and recreation trends.

To qualify, applicants must have a demonstrated interest in, and a general knowledge of, outdoor recreation and conservation in Washington state. Appointed members will serve three-year terms beginning in January 2020.

Citizen members are reimbursed for travel expenses and receive a small stipend for attending meetings.

To apply, submit an electronic application via the Governor’s Boards and Commissions Web site at: http://www.governor.wa.gov/boards-commissions/board-and-commissions/apply-serve-board-or-commission-0.

It is recommended that applicants also attach a resume and a letter of interest. Applications should be submitted by November 1, 2019.

Created in 1964, the Recreation and Conservation Office provides statewide leadership and funding to protect and improve the best of Washington’s natural and outdoor recreation resources.