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USDA Celebrates Earth Day in Ripley

Name
Lisa Sharp
City
Ripley
Release Date

USDA Rural Development State Director Bobby Lewis joined with local residents and government officials today in Ripley to make a presentation to the City of Ripley in honor of Earth Day.

The theme for Earth Day 2015 is “It’s Our Turn to Lead” and USDA’s investments of more than $112 million in loans and grants for water and wastewater improvements and $2 million in funding for more efficient energy usage demonstrate USDA’s continued leadership on environmental issues.

Earth Day is observed annually on April 22 to raise awareness about the role each person can play to protect vital natural resources and safeguard the environment.  This year, Rural Development will host events across the country highlighting both newly funded projects as well as past Earth Day projects.

Among the projects funded this year, the City of Ripley received funds to support Phase 1 of the City’s wastewater system improvements project.  The City is the recipient of $4,291,000 in loan funds and $1,003,000 in grant funds to support a project which consists of replacing existing pump stations, replacing force mains, and replacing or rehabilitating existing gravity lines and manholes.

USDA Rural Development State Director Bobby Lewis said, “Our agency is pleased to join with the City of Ripley today as we celebrate Earth Day.”  He went on to say, “Earth Day reminds us of the critical role that USDA can play to help protect our environment while safeguarding our nation’s natural resources.”  Mr. Lewis added, “Today we celebrate not only Earth Day, but the commitment and dedication of everyone associated with the City of Ripley and the residents of this wonderful community.”

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural areas.