Rural Encounter of a Virtual Kind

The Western Rural Development Center (WRDC) hosts a virtual open house on the Utah State University campus from 3 to 5 p.m. MST Thursday, Oct. 21. Through satellite and Internet technology, western university faculty, policy makers, community leaders and others who manage rural issues will connect with their counterparts in such remote communities as Mangilao, Guam, and Nome, Alaska.

 

The mission of the WRDC is to help communities identify key issues shaping the future of the West and organize resources and projects that respond to those issues. Such issues of concern for rural communities include economic viability, sustainable land use, adequate health care and education and shifting demographics.

 

“The realities of distance and the digital divide sometimes complicate these issues and make it more difficult for rural communities to integrate with strong resource networks,” said John Allen, WRDC director. “Our hope is that the virtual open house will be a time to discuss commonalities, share food and forge long-lasting relationships through face-to-face interaction that will result in enhanced opportunities for rural people and places.”

 

Special guests will give brief remarks, and booths will feature live, interactive feeds to communities on the outer fringes of the western region. The event is open to the public.

 

The WRDC is one of four regional rural development centers sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Others are at Mississippi State University (Southern Region), Iowa State University (North Central Region) and Pennsylvania State University (Northeast Region). Each center participates in rural development research and Extension projects within its region.

 

For more information about the WRDC, or to attend the virtual open house in person or through the Internet, e-mail wrdc@ext.usu.edu or call Carey Dufner at 435-797-9732.