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MORGANTOWN - On behalf of the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) commitment to strengthening rural economies, USDA Rural Development State Director for West Virginia Bobby Lewis announced new data highlighting USDA investments in rural West Virginia. This data summarizes specific USDA investments in rural West Virginia's businesses, manufacturing, energy, water and other infrastructure development. It also outlines how USDA is helping rural West Virginia attract businesses and families by investing in housing and broadband. This information is part of USDA's national "Made in Rural America" report illustrating the impact of USDA investments in rural America.
"Supporting our rural communities benefits all West Virginians," said State Director Bobby Lewis. "USDA has made dedicated investments in manufacturing, energy and small businesses in rural West Virginia. At the same time, we are bringing reliable services like water, housing and broadband to make these same communities attract and retain a talented workforce. This data shows that the entrepreneurial spirit is strong in rural West Virginia."
In West Virginia, USDA has made investments to help 103 rural businesses thrive and grow, including $18.8 million investment in rural manufacturing alone. Rural manufacturing supports 18,657 in West Virginia. In addition, USDA has helped 10,892 families purchase or repair homes and has invested $292.4 million to support efficient water system, treatment and storage facilities, and wastewater treatment systems. This investment has improved the health of thousands of rural West Virginians who now have access to clean water and reliable sanitation.
More information is available at www.usda.gov/opportunity
The "Made in Rural America" report reflects USDA's efforts to strengthen the "four pillars" of a new economy in rural America by developing a robust bio-based economy; promoting exports and production agriculture fueled by increased productivity and research; encouraging conservation including land management, stewardship and outdoor recreational opportunities; and building a strong local and regional food system to harness entrepreneurial innovation and help small and medium-sized family farms succeed in rural America.
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