Are these salaried advisors? In state/federal agencies I've worked with, advisory committees are just that. Offer opinion and advice, but in no way make policy. Might get their way paid to a gathering, but usually no pay.
Can they really "designate national historic or natural landmarks?" If so, they are a truly powerful bunch.
Have served on some, and it can be frustrating when suggestions are essentially ignored. In many instances those committees are established simply to give the impression that an organization is listening. Such committees can have some real value, however, if members are well connected or willing to communicate with Washington. Federal folks are essentially half citizens as they can not lobby or politic for their agencies or causes. Supportive advisors, however, can make things happen. Similarly, they can cause a lot of grief if an agency is not worthy of support.
Last edited by 1minute; 01/16/18.
