Arizona State Parks Seeks Advisory Committee Volunteers

The Arizona State Parks Board is seeking recreation, historic preservation & environmental enthusiasts to serve in an advisory capacity. The term begins January 1st, 2007.

Currently there are 14 openings for 4 advisory boards, including the Arizona State Committee on Trails (ASCOT), the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC), the Natural Areas Program Advisory Committee (NAPAC), & the Off-Highway Vehicle Advisory Group (OHVAG).

The Arizona State Committee on Trails (ASCOT) represents non-motorized trail interests & serves in an advisory capacity to the Arizona State Parks Board. The overall mission of the Arizona Trails Program is to promote, develop, & preserve non-motorized trail opportunities throughout the state. Parks staff works with the ASCOT to: 1) advance & promote non-motorized trail use; 2) provide technical assistance; 3) promote trail management & development; & 4) provide trails-related info & education opportunities throughout Arizona.

The Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC) serves in an advisory capacity to the Parks Board & 1) assists in developing guidance for the historic preservation component of the Arizona Heritage Fund; 2) assists in the development of the Historic Preservation Plan & annual Action Plans; 3) reviews & comments on staff recommendations to the Parks Board on Arizona Heritage Fund Historic Preservation grant applications, grant policies, & funding priorities; & 4) performs other duties as requested by the Parks Board.

The Natural Areas Program Advisory Committee (NAPAC) serves in an advisory capacity providing scientific expertise to the Parks Board on natural area issues & 1) evaluates & recommends natural areas for potential acquisition; and 2) provides management plan review.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Advisory Group (OHVAG) serves in an advisory capacity to the Parks Board. The mission of the Arizona Off-Highway Vehicle Program is to: develop & enhance statewide off-highway vehicle opportunities & to develop education programs that promote resource protection, social responsibility, & interagency cooperation.

The deadline for submitting an application for any of the advisory committees is 5 p.m. on Friday, September 29th. More information about each of the committees & an application can be found on the Arizona State Parks website under Partnerships at www.azstateparks.com or call toll-free (800) 285-3703.