CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) – West Virginia University Parkersburg (WVUP) has been awarded funding through the West Virginia Department of Agriculture’s Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) Program to expand its capacity to serve local farmers and strengthen the region’s food supply chain. The grant will be formally presented to WVU Parkersburg on Tuesday, June 24, at 9:00 a.m. at The Riverhawk Farm. Members of the media are encouraged to attend.
The grant will establish Riverhawk Farm into a regional agricultural hub. Planned improvements include the installation of certified produce and dairy processing equipment, expanded cold storage facilities, and honey processing capabilities. These upgrades will give beginning and established producers access to critical infrastructure needed to diversify their product lines, extend the shelf life of seasonal goods, and reach institutional buyers such as schools and hospitals.
“This funding empowers local producers by connecting them with the resources they need to grow their businesses and reach new markets,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt. “By investing in infrastructure at places like WVUP, we’re building a more resilient and self-sufficient food system for West Virginia.”
In total, 11 projects were funded statewide. The RFSI initiative is focused on strengthening middle-of-the-supply-chain activities—like processing, aggregation, and distribution—to support farmers and food businesses. The WVDA will provide technical assistance and supply chain support to ensure the long-term success of these projects.
“We are grateful to have received RFSI grant funding, which will enhance our ability to support local producers and strengthen The Riverhawk Farm’s role as the Agricultural Hub of the Mid-Ohio Valley,” said John Riggs, Director of Agriculture, WVU Parkersburg. “This opportunity is made possible through the support of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Jay-Bee Oil & Gas, Mike and Brenda Miller, Hall Drilling, Perkins Supply, and all our dedicated partners and supporters in agricultural education. Their commitment continues to drive innovation and advance agriculture offerings across our region.”
For more information on the RFSI Program, visit agriculture.wv.gov.
