LCRA is taking applications through Sept. 29 for volunteer positions on six new regional councils which will provide a twoway communication link between LCRA and communities on issues, projects and activities affecting the region.

The councils will replace the lake and river advisory panels that have served the lower Colorado River basin for 13 years. In comparison, council members will represent more counties and will consider a broader range of issues, including growth and the increasing demand for water, electricity and recreational space. Members also will share information with community groups.

"These regional councils will require a new level of commitment by the members and LCRA," said LCRA Public Affairs Manager Gail Oliver. "We're excited about working with these new councils to enhance communication between LCRA and communities."

Members will serve two- or four-year terms and attend at least six two-hour meetings a year. The six councils and the counties that members will represent include:

San Saba/Llano Regional Council: Hamilton, Kimble, Lampasas, Llano, Mason, McCulloch, Menard, Mills and San Saba counties.

Pedernales Regional Council: Bandera, Blanco, Comal, Gillespie, Kendall and Kerr counties.

Buchanan/Inks Regional Council: Burnet and Llano counties.

LBJ/Marble Falls Regional Council: Burnet and Llano counties.

Travis/Austin Regional Council: Travis, Hays and Williamson. counties

Colorado/Wharton/Matagorda Regional Council: Colorado, Wharton, Matagorda and Lavaca (Hallettsville only) counties.

An application review team will consider whether the applicant is well-informed of community needs, interests and viewpoints, and willing to devote the time and energy it will take to attend all scheduled meetings and share information with their communities.

The groups will represent diverse interests, including property ownership, community leadership, recreation, the environment and agriculture.

LCRA will select the members of the six regional councils and notify all applicants after the selections are made.

Individuals can learn more about the new regional councils and apply for a volunteer position at www.lcra.org/regionalcouncils.

Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. Sept. 29. For more information, contact Natalie Wilkinson Dailey at (800) 776- 5272, ext. 7564, or Regional. Councils@lcra.org.