Snohomish County is seeking volunteers for two important county committees-The Snohomish County Council on Aging and the Snohomish County Marine Resources Advisory Committee.

“The willingness of people to step forward and volunteer their time is a key part of what makes this community so great,” said Councilmember Dave Gossett. “We need people who are willing to work to improve life in Snohomish County.”

The Council on Aging is a 30 member advisory board that advises the county on issues impacting both seniors and younger persons with disabilities. Snohomish County manages federal, state and local funds to provide programs for these groups and regularly consults with the Council on Aging.

The terms are for three years, beginning January 1, 2011. The Council meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month (except December) from 9:30 a.m. to noon. If interested in applying, contact Joyce Frasu at Snohomish County’s Long Term Care & Aging Division at (425) 388-7377 or j.frasu@snoco.org. Applications are due Friday, September 17.

The Marine Resources Advisory Committee (MRC) works on issues affecting the marine environment. The MRC has four main areas of focus: education and outreach, Dungeness crab stewardship, marine water quality, and near-shore habitat stewardship. It works closely with the Snohomish County Shore Stewards and Beach Watchers programs.

“You don’t have to have a Phd. in marine biology to be a member,” noted Gossett. “Average citizens who are concerned about our environment and willing to learn about marine conservation are encouraged to apply.”

The MRC meets in Everett the third Wednesday of every month from 6:30-8:30 pm. Members should expect to spend roughly 15 hours per month on project planning and implementation tasks. If interested in applying, go to www.marine.surfacewater.info or contact Kathleen Herrmann at 425-388-6414 or kathleen.herrmann@snoco.org.