Veneman appoints new members to the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council

Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman today announced the selection of three members to USDA's National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council (NUCFAC). There are two new members and one reappointed member. Their terms begin immediately and will continue until Dec. 31, 2005.

The two new appointments to the 15-member council are Brenda Allen, assistant professor/extension specialist of urban forestry, Auburn University, Tuskegee, Ala., and Joseph A. Wilson, executive director, Greening Milwaukee, Franklin, Wis. One member has been reappointed to serve a second term: Ann Bates, executive director, Idaho Nursery Association, Idaho Falls, Idaho. 

"I am pleased that these appointees have agreed to provide their valuable expertise and advice to USDA for the management of these important resources," said Veneman. The council advises the Secretary on the care and management of trees, forests and related natural resources in urban and community settings. The council also works with federal and state agencies and other partners to share information and technical assistance. In addition, the council makes recommendations to USDA's Forest Service on competitive cost-share grants that advance the science and practice of urban forestry.