OEDC Today

“Edwards gained quite the reputation in the trail building community and is known for the care and effort he places into design, with special attention to sustainability and working with the topography of the land. He brings this knowledge, experience, and creativity with him as he seeks to reimagine trails in West Virginia that will shape the state’s communities for years to come. ”

“Danny Twilley, Ph.D. and assistant dean of the WVU Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative, explains to host Sheila Hyland how this talent and retention program helps the state through supporting remote professionals and their families who relocate to the state in pursuit of a high quality, outdoor lifestyle.”

“As far as trail-building, the primary effort this season has gone into the beginning stages of a several-mile shared-use trail system on WVU property at West Run—trails that will open officially in the spring. The Smith OEDC hired the International Mountain Biking Association’s Trail Solutions team and Appalachian Dirt out of Thomas to do the grading and initial cut-in, which prepared the surface for finishing work by volunteers.”

“Smith, a former Intuit CEO, wrote in an email that “philanthropy can serve as a catalyst to innovate” and that he provided the money because he believes it’s important to help cities take a risk on new efforts like Ascend WV.”

“'Science Adventure School is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the sixth-graders of West Virginia,' said Midland Trail Middle School teachers Ashlie Petitt and Kennedy Moore. 'These students can learn through outdoor experiences that are unique to our area.'”

18 new bikes are available through Youth Cycling Coalition programs 

“We’d have those people living here, paying taxes and contributing to the community, as well as creating demand for restaurants and bars and other venues. It could be a super cool boost to the area and create momentum for many of our towns.”

"The outdoor economy can provide opportunities for locals and visitors to the state through sustainable economic development, education and workforce development, opportunities to enhance health and wellness, and further support conservation and stewardship efforts."

"In our annual contest we placed 32 schools against each other in a bracket-style competition and received a flood of online voting from fans of their favorite schools. The colleges were chosen based on academic curricula, outdoor clubs, commitment to environmental initiatives, and, of course, access to adventure. Ultimately two winners—West Virginia University and WVU Institute of Technology—tied for the top prize."