The annual appointment process provides the chance for new members to get involved, and for incumbent members to continue, providing the Councils with important continuity. There are two seats open in membership category one, which represents federal livestock grazing permit holders, timber industry representatives, commercial recreation interests, energy and mineral development interests, representatives of off-highway vehicle interest groups, and those interested in transportation and right of way matters. There is one seat open in category two, which includes members of national or regional environmental groups, wild horse and burro interest groups, archaeological and historic interests, and dispersed recreation interests. The council also has one seat open in category three, which includes elected officials, employees of state agencies responsible for natural resources, teachers involved in natural sciences, and the public at large. Appointments are made by the Secretary of the Interior.
Members serve three-year terms and are eligible for reappointment.
Members of the Central California Advisory Council must be California residents. Nominees' evaluations will be based on their education, training and experience, and their knowledge of the Council's area of jurisdiction. Nominees should have demonstrated a commitment to collaborative decision making and a willingness to work with disparate groups on natural resource issues.