News in Brief:
– USDA invests $144 million in rural development projects, benefiting 56 initiatives across various states and Puerto Rico.
– Key projects include solar power integration for farms, improved emergency services infrastructure, and resilience initiatives post-natural disasters.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) continues its commitment to rural America with a fresh wave of economic development investments totaling $144 million in Rural Partners Network (RPN) communities. These investments aim to bolster infrastructure and clean energy initiatives in historically underserved areas.
The network, launched two years ago, has been instrumental in fostering collaboration between local communities and federal agencies. This partnership has yielded over $1 billion in funding for approximately 4,700 economic development projects, empowering rural and Tribal communities across the nation.
Tangible benefits for local farmers
The latest funding allocation will see 56 projects receiving support, with a focus on addressing immediate needs and fostering long-term economic growth. Among the initiatives, several projects stand out for their direct impact on local farmers and communities.
- Solar Power for Sustainable Farming: Georgia Cold Storage Inc. plans to harness solar energy with a $322,550 grant, benefiting a poultry farm in Blakely, Georgia. This move is projected to save significant costs and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources, directly impacting local farmers.
- Enhancing Emergency Services: Laona Rescue Unit Inc. in Forest County, Wisconsin, is set to benefit from a $2 million grant to construct a new emergency services station. This infrastructure upgrade will improve response times and service quality, vital for supporting rural agricultural communities.
- Ensuring Resilience in Puerto Rico: Acueducto Rural Palmarito Cintron Inc. will utilise a $226,000 grant to acquire a backup electrical generator, crucial for ensuring uninterrupted water supply during emergencies. This initiative addresses the lingering impact of natural disasters like Hurricane Maria on local farmers and residents.
A Nationwide Endeavor
The funding extends to communities across Alaska, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Puerto Rico, with additional benefits reaching South Carolina. The RPN program, now active in 36 community networks, continues to receive support from various federal agencies, reflecting a concerted effort to uplift rural America.
