USDA assists West Virginia businesses

10/18/2011

Four rural development projects in West Virginia will receive a combined $3.15 million from the United States Department of Agriculture, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin and Jay Rockafeller announced today.

The USDA funds will go toward helping farmers improve energy efficiency and expand local businesses.

"Investments in our rural communities, whether in the form of expanding electricity, support for our farmers or for local businesses, are investments in the people of our state and commitments to building a better future," said Senator Rockefeller.

According to The Associated Press, the funding includes a $3 million loan for the Harrison Rural Electrification Association, which provides electrical service for 640 consumers in seven counties. With the USDA loan, the company will build 39 miles of electrical line and make improvements to 18 miles of existing line.

Furthermore, the Braxton County Development Authority received a $50,000 Rural Business Enterprise Grant to help companies assess potential job sites. At least 40 jobs are expected to be created from the grant.

Lastly, the Appalachian Offroad MC will obtain slightly more than $70,000 to go toward its renewable energy practices, and Mock's Greenhouse and Landscaping will get just over $28,000 to install energy reduction tools.