Manchin, Capito Announce $149K To Strengthen Agricultural Training At West Virginia University

Charleston, WV – U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $149,936 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to West Virginia University (WVU) for a future West Virginia farmers, ranchers and rural development professionals training program. This program will develop a Regional Food System Development Certificate at WVU to prepare the next generation of agriculture workers by expanding career and training opportunities.

“West Virginia’s farmers, ranchers and rural development professionals play a critical role in our state’s economy and provide nutritious, locally grown food for West Virginians. I’m pleased USDA is investing in WVU training programs to ensure future generations have the proper training and opportunities,” said Senator Manchin. “I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this investment and will continue to advocate for funding that supports West Virginia’s agriculture industry,”

“The future success of West Virginia’s growing agricultural economy depends on a capable and diverse workforce. This funding will deliver the support our students need to pursue a career in food and agricultural sciences, regardless of their background. This is an important step in providing our students in the Mountain State with the resources they need to work in a field they are passionate about, while simultaneously contributing to the development of our communities and agricultural systems,” Senator Capito said.