There are many areas where the Fish and Wildlife Service can benefit by obtaining advice from members of the public.  It is important that we adhere to the requirements established by FACA and the guidelines provided by GSA.  Not doing so could result in the Service being prohibited from utilizing any reports or other material originating from the advisory group.
 

FACA specifies the process for establishing, operating, overseeing, and terminating advisory committees, task forces, boards, and commissions. The Act encourages the use of open meetings, public involvement, chartering, and reporting.

The Service has 16 active advisory committees:   11 created by statute and 5 discretionary. For information on a particular committee, please contact the Designated Federal Officer or coordinator..

The Division of Policy and Directives Management serves as the liaison with the Department on all FACA activities and provides advice and guidance on FACA requirements. Part 107 of the Fish and Wildlife Service Manual contains guidance on advisory committee management. For general information on FACA, including laws, regulations, General Service Administration (GSA) guidelines, copies of annual reports, and training information, visit GSA's FACA Website

• What is an advisory committee?
• What is not an advisory committee?
• Who approves the establishment of of an advisory committee and appoints members?
• What is required before an advisory committee can meet?
• What does a charter contain and how often is it renewed?
• Is it necessary to maintain meeting minutes?
• Do advisory committee meetings have to be open to the public?