SALEM, Ore—The application deadline for persons interested in serving on the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Access and Habitat Board as landowner representatives has been extended to Nov. 2. Two positions are currently available.

The Access and Habitat Program was created by the 1993 Oregon Legislature to form partnerships with private landowners to improve wildlife habitat and increase hunting access on private lands by awarding grants for projects that accomplish these goals.

The Access and Habitat Board is made up of seven citizen volunteers — three landowner representatives, three hunter representatives and one public-at-large representative — who review and recommend wildlife habitat improvement and hunter access projects for funding to the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission. The program is funded by a $2 surcharge included in hunting license fees.

Board members, who are appointed to four-year terms by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, meet three or four times each year in various communities throughout the state to review project funding applications, hear public testimony and act as liaisons between the program and the public.

Those with an interest and experience in hunting, forestry, farming, ranching and/or wildlife conservation are encouraged to apply.

To request an application and instructions for applying, contact Access and Habitat Program coordinator Matt Keenan, (503) 947-6087. Applications may also be downloaded from the ODFW Website at www.dfw.state.or.us/AH/get_involved.asp.