Jim Doran, Exec. Director

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate release. For more info contact: Jim Doran (509) 997-2295.

The Colville Community Forestry Coalition will present a Grants Workshop on January 9^th, 2004, at the Chewelah Peak Learning Center. The Workshop is specifically targeted to those organizations in Northeastern Washington that intend to submit a grant application to the National Fire Plan funding program. The deadline for submitting applications is February 13, 2004. The purpose of the Workshop is to “coordinate” applications rather than “compete” with other applicants and to avoid fatal duplication. This Workshop will also be helpful for Rural Community Assistance grant applicants.

The focus of the National Fire Plan is the reduction of threats to human settlements from wildfire. Cooperation between the agencies, the local Fire Districts, the County, private landowners and non-profit organizations, like the Colville Community Forestry Coalition, can bring significant funding to the region for fuels reduction and Community Fire Plans.

The Workshop begins at 10:00 a.m. and runs through 3:30 p.m. on Friday January 9^th. However, the space will remain available after the Workshop for those who wish to sit and discuss their specific applications and collaborate with other applicants. Representatives from the granting agencies will also be present for consultation after their formal presentations.

There is no charge for the Workshop. Lunch will cost $6.00. Dormitory lodging is available at $13.00 for the night.

The Chewelah Peak Learning Center is located 10 miles East of Chewelah on the Flowery Trail Road. At the top of the pass follow the signs to the Learning Center on the North side of the road.

The Workshop is co-sponsored by the Colville Community Forestry Coalition, the WSU Extension Office, the US Forest Service, the WA – DNR and the Chewelah Peak Learning Center (509) 935-7400.