Archived News

Morgantown, W.Va. – There’s a growing movement in West Virginia, and at the forefront are females who are breaking out of typical gender roles. They’re leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs, and they make up a growing population of women who own farms and manage all aspects of an agricultural operation.

The trend isn’t confined to West Virginia. In fact, close to 970,000 women now run 31 percent of the nation’s farms. Even more impressive is the fact that West Virginia’s women-run farms have a substantial economic impact on the state – to the tune of more than $62 million.

West Virginians are no strangers to resiliency.

Through tragic flooding in southern counties and challenging economic times, the state’s people have a way of bouncing back.

Morgantown, W.Va.— Back-to-school time can be exciting for parents and students alike. With so many things to prepare for, shopping for school items might seem overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be, according to West Virginia University Extension Service experts.

David Roberts, WVU Extension agent for Lincoln and Boone counties, says it all starts with planning ahead.

Morgantown, W.Va. – Floods have far reaching effects that extend past the immediate damage and danger that high water presents at the crest stage. In addition to the clean-up efforts afterwards, there are agricultural considerations for the home gardener and farmer with livestock.

The West Virginia University Extension Service has resources available and residents affected by flooding can get in touch with their local WVU Extension Service office for additional information about how to handle their land, plants and animals after a flood event.

Morgantown, W.Va.—Registration is now open for the 4th Annual Rush Run 5K run/walk, held Friday, Aug. 18, 7 p.m. at Hazel Ruby McQuain Amphitheater at the Wharf District in Morgantown.

Organized by Monongalia County 4-H Teen Leaders, a program of West Virginia University Extension Service’s 4-H unit, the race was created in memory of West Virginia 4-H’er Sydney Rush, who died following a tragic car accident in September 2013.

Morgantown, W.Va.— West Virginia youths at select schools, day care centers and community events can shop for fresh produce through the West Virginia University Extension Service Kids Koupons program during National Farmers Market Week, celebrated Aug. 6 to 12. 

Thanks to a grant from the Eye Foundation of America, the school-based farmers market voucher program offers kids buying power by providing them with “kids koupons” to spend on fruits and vegetables available at school farmers markets.

Morgantown, W.Va.— Fairgoers can play games and activities at West Virginia University exhibits, learn about WVU Extension programs and celebrate WVU’s 150th birthday at the State Fair of West Virginia, Aug. 10-19 in Fairlea, West Virginia.

The WVU Building is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the exception of Thursday, August 10 when the building opens at 2 p.m. (official start of the State Fair) and the final day of the fair when the building closes at 5 p.m.

Morgantown, W.Va. – At the heart of the West Virginia University Extension Service is a passion for the state and its people. That statement also holds true for Tara Curtis, the new director of communications and marketing for the University’s main outreach arm, bringing more than 20 years of public relations, communications and marketing experience to the unit.

Not only is she a Mountaineer through and through in regards to her work experience and academic career, but she’s also acutely aware of Extension’s mission as she spent part of her youth growing up in West Virginia 4-H programs.

Morgantown, W.Va. – There’s a lot of talk about ticks in the news and on social media this year after a milder than usual winter and increasing public attention to Lyme disease and Powassan virus. However, these parasitic pests are common in West Virginia and an integrated control approach can help homeowners protect themselves and their family.

According to Daniel Frank, former West Virginia University Extension entomology specialist, West Virginia has three species of ticks that are frequently encountered. These include the American dog tick, the blacklegged or deer tick, and the lone star tick.

Morgantown, W.Va. – Firefighters across the state will soon be able to better handle a variety of emergency situations as the West Virginia University Fire Service Extension expands their footprint by bringing new, mobile equipment and training to volunteer units in rural communities.

According to Mark Lambert, director of the Fire Service Extension, the ability to reach more firefighters directly in their communities addresses a critical, unique training need for the majority of West Virginia.