On behalf of the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) commitment to strengthening rural economies, USDA Rural Development Oregon State Director Vicki Walker announced new data highlighting USDA investments in rural Oregon. This data summarizes specific USDA investments in rural Oregon’s businesses, manufacturing, energy, water and other infrastructure development. It also outlines how USDA is helping rural Oregon 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 Oregonians" said Walker. "USDA has made dedicated investments in manufacturing, energy and small businesses in rural Oregon. 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 vigorous and strong in rural Oregon."
In Oregon, USDA has made investments to help 396 rural businesses thrive and grow, including $277.7 million in rural manufacturing investments alone. Rural manufacturing supports 26,184 jobs in Oregon. In addition, USDA has helped 16,493 families purchase or repair homes and has invested $135.1 million to support efficient water support, treatment and storage facilities, and wastewater treatment systems. This investment has improved the health of thousands of rural Oregon who now have access to clean water and reliable sanitation.
The new report also highlights a newly announced USDA Rural Development grant to Sustainable Northwest to help create rural jobs and restore ecosystems by expanding commercial markets for Western Juniper. This grant continues a series of USDA Rural Development investments with Sustainable Northwest to create economic opportunity while addressing environmental concerns in the Northwest’s Dry Forest Zone.
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.