Anyone with an idea for improving national forestland can apply to the Mount Baker Ranger District for project money. The application deadline is Friday, Aug. 24.

Past proposals have included road work, habitat restoration, weather data collection and youth recreation.

The money is compensation to communities that collect less in taxes because of the federal lands in their jurisdictions. The relevant federal law guarantees funding for schools and roads, and supports natural resource projects.

Skagit and Whatcom counties historically receive most of the money available to the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. For 2013, $297,000 is available in the two counties.

Application forms and more details, including where to send completed forms, are online at fs.usda.gov/goto/mbs/rac.

Reach RALPH SCHWARTZ at ralph.schwartz@bellinghamherald.com or call 360-715-2266.