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Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Wednesday, July 3, 2024. 

You’ll be seeing stars at the new cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest…the new Multimodal Transit Center is taking shape in Martinsburg…and learn how you can earn a degree in advanced manufacturing AND graduate debt-free…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WBOY-TV – The new stargazing cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest will be open for reservations beginning Aug. 1.

The five cabins under construction are located along Coopers Rock’s main ridge between the main overlook and Ravens Rock. The cabins will be equipped with telescopes and specific places for the best stargazing. They are the first of their kind in West Virginia.

Seven more cabins are being built in addition to the five that are already at the site.

In addition to the cabins, Coopers Rock has also upgraded its camping options with 25 new modern RV sites, new laundry and firewood facilities and wastewater improvements.

For more information or to book your lodging, visit www.wvstateparks.com.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/news/local/monongalia-and-preston/coopers-rock-stargazing-cabins-opening-this-fall/

#2 – From MARTINSBURG JOURNAL – The once-only-dreamed-about Eastern Panhandle Multimodal Transit Center is becoming a reality, according to Eastern Panhandle Transit Authority Executive Director Elaine Bartoldson.

The project has been in the planning for approximately nine years, Bartoldson told a large crowd gathered recently for the groundbreaking ceremony in Martinsburg.

This new project will help address rising rider demand and will provide a modern, purpose-built, consolidated maintenance and storage facility, as well as a more centrally located and ADA-compliant transfer center and administrative offices to serve EPTA’s growing customer base.

Funding for the project came from three federal grants, including the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program.

Read more:

https://www.journal-news.net/journal-news/multimodal-transit-center-coming-to-fruition-after-nearly-a-decade-of-planning/article_8850155e-af76-570b-8507-086b1eb27b25.html

#3 – From PCDA – Would you like to earn a degree in advanced manufacturing AND graduate debt-free?

Programs like WV Invests and BridgeValley’s ASCEND programs allow students to graduate completely debt-free, including tuition, fees, books, and other associated educational expenses. Work three days a week and attend class two days a week. You’ll earn a real wage with the potential for periodic pay increases.

Graduates are eligible to continue their employment with their sponsoring manufacturer, moving into a full-time position with benefits.

Learn more:

https://pcda.org/fame-usa/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

“Go Wild” with your yard, save money AND help native wildlife; the WVDNR shows you how…discover the hidden world beneath a freshwater ecosystem with a snorkeling session at Seneca Rocks…and plan a kayaking adventure in North Central West Virginia…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WBOY-TV – The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has a program that encourages residents to “go wild” with their yards.

The Wild Yards Program is part of the WVDNR’s Wildlife Diversity Program that recognizes backyard landscapers for creating and maintaining wildlife habitats. The program provides guidance and a sign you can put in your yard to signify that you are part of the statewide network.

Why should you do it? Wild yards need less maintenance. It saves money AND makes money by increasing your property value. 

By adding native plants and simple things like feeders, birdbaths, nest boxes, fruit trees or other sources of food, you can increase your daily wildlife encounters. Studies show that contact with nature can improve your mood, cognition and health.

To learn more and receive a Wild Yards manual, visit WVDNR online.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/4-reasons-why-the-wvdnr-says-you-should-let-your-yard-go-wild/

#2 – From LOOT PRESS – Discover the hidden world beneath the surface of a freshwater ecosystem and gain a new appreciation for the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Join the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center staff at Monongahela National Forest for exciting river snorkeling programs every Tuesday and Thursday until September 5, 2024.

“Don’t let the idea of snorkeling in the North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac River surprise you. You’re invited to join us in uncovering the unseen world of this vibrant ecosystem,” said Mandy Harmon, Assistant Discovery Center Director.

Space is limited, so pre-registration is necessary. To register and find out more, contact Justin Lee at [email protected] or call the Discovery Center at 304-567-2627.

Read more:

https://www.lootpress.com/explore-snorkeling-at-seneca-rocks-discovery-center/

#3 – From WV NEWS – North Central West Virginia is emerging as a premier destination for kayaking enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of experiences amid its rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers. The region’s natural beauty and varied waterways cater to kayakers of all skill levels. 

Whether you prefer thrilling whitewater adventures or serene paddles on calm lakes, you’ll find some great places to get in the water here. Check out some of the top kayaking spots in the region, including the Cheat River, Tygart Valley River, Stonewall Jackson Lake and more.

Visit www.wvtourism.com for additional information on kayaking destinations in Almost Heaven.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/north-central-west-virginia-a-kayakers-paradise/article_a9f303e2-2ef3-11ef-88f5-33b68604549d.html

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is July 1, 2024.

The WV National Guard gets funding to establish a food production hub in Charleston…Allegheny Trail stewards celebrate 50 years with group hikes, trail work and more…and you’ll be seeing stars at these dark sky locations in Almost Heaven…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV NEWS – A business center planned for Charleston aims to provide new resources to entrepreneurs in the culinary sector.

The United States Small Business Administration is granting the West Virginia National Guard $595,000 to establish a small business hub with a specific emphasis on food production and innovation.

The new center will have office areas, recipe design spaces and a test kitchen.

Adjutant General for the State of West Virginia William Crane said the new funding will allow the National Guard to expand current entrepreneurial resources within the state’s veteran community and beyond.

The hub will find good company in Charleston, a city already home to multiple other small business incubators — like the University of Charleston Downtown Innovation Hub and the West Virginia Small Business Development Center.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/new-food-entrepreneurship-hub-slated-for-charleston-west-virginia/article_55dcfb24-3096-11ef-9a31-7f2bffa18897.html

#2 – From BACKPACKER – The 311 mile Allegheny Trail might be one of the most breathtaking long trails in the United States. The scenic footpath stretches from the Pennsylvania border to the Virginia border, connecting to the Appalachian Trail at Peter’s Mountain in Monroe County.

It’s a great trek any year, but 2024 is special. That’s because in September, the trail’s primary stewardship organization, the West Virginia Scenic Trail Association, is turning 50, and the nonprofit is going all out to celebrate. Hikers who hit the trail this year will have their pick of events, group hikes, fitness challenges, and community trail-work days to choose from.

Fall is the best time to visit, says trail hikers. Not only do you have beautiful fall foliage, it’s also peak time for migrating raptors. Check out the story at Backpacker.com to learn more about Allegheny Trail events, including the 50th Anniversary Bash.

Read more:

https://www.backpacker.com/trips/trips-by-state/west-virginia-trails/why-this-is-the-year-to-hike-west-virginias-allegheny-trail/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER – Located entirely within the Appalachian Mountains, West Virginia includes some of the darkest regions of the night sky in the eastern U.S.

Based on dark-sky data, the most significant areas of dark skies in West Virginia occur where populations are lowest or are least concentrated and where mountain walls shut out light from cities and light sources such as surface mines and gas wells.

You’ll find some great stargazing places at Calhoun County Park in Calhoun County, in the Monongahela National Forest in Pocahontas, Randolph and Pendleton counties, and in the Eastern Panhandle west of Cacapon Mountain.

Check out Dark Sky Adventures at wvtourism.com to learn more and plan your stargazing adventure. 

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2024/06/16/where-are-darkest-night-skies-in-west-virginia/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Sunday, June 30, 2024. 

Download your summer bucket list, check off your adventures in Almost Heaven and you might win a fall getaway from WV Tourism...Sprouse Building Products delivers quality vinyl windows in #YesWV…and escape the heat with a hike on a shaded trail or near water where you can take a cooling dip…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TOURISM – Summer is the perfect time to meet all of your adventure goals. Check off our summer bucket list for the chance to win a fall getaway in Almost Heaven. You’ll never run out of fun things to do in West Virginia. Take a road trip. Visit a natural wonder. Plan a water excursion. Dine at a local restaurant. 

Visit wvtourism.com to download your bucket list and build your own unique itinerary. Everyone who completes a bucket list will be entered into Tourism’s fall getaway sweepstakes. 

Learn more:

https://wvtourism.com/summer-bucket-list/

#2 – From WV COMMERCE – Since 1991, Sprouse Building Products has quietly manufactured and delivered quality vinyl windows to more than 10 states from the small town of Paden City, West Virginia. The company traces its roots to Sprouse Aluminum Products founded by Norman and Beverly Sprouse in 1972 and Omega Window Systems founded by Jeff and Cecelia Sprouse in 1985.

Learn more about why Sprouse Windows and Doors says #YesWV.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYVe3NKUcMY

#3 – From WBOY-TV – Want to take advantage of the outdoors but worried about the heat? Check out a  few of the hiking trails in West Virginia that offer a little bit of a break from the high temperatures West Virginia has been stuck in for the past week.

Head to Audra State Park for a shaded hike and a cooling dip in the Middle Fork River. The Alum Creek and Cave Trail has both water access and cave-like overhangs to keep it cool. 

One of the best ways to beat the heat is to go to West Virginia’s higher elevations. Snowshoe Mountain has lots of trails to take advantage of, but the lake trail also has water access, which can also help keep you cool.

Visit wvtourism.com or wvstateparks.com to learn more about hiking trails in Almost Heaven. 

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/west-virginia-hiking-trails-that-are-bearable-when-its-really-hot/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Saturday, June 29, 2024.

The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta returns next week, bringing great music, food and fun…Enjoy a concert from your couch with Mountain State Music…and Hillbilly Hotdogs’ owner shares the secret to her success…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From CHARLESTON REGATTA – Save the date! The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta returns to the Capital City July 3-7. The event kicks off with the Wheelwash Beer Festival. Enjoy carnival games and rides, great food, live music and more. Check out charlestonregatta.com for updates. 

Learn more:

https://charlestonregatta.com/

#2 – From MOUNTAIN STATE MUSIC – The daily304 and Folklore Music Exchange are proud to present Mountain State Music Concert from the Folklore Stage in Charleston, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. This week’s guests include Kindred Valley and Noah Freeman! 

Check it out on YouTube. It’s a concert from your couch! Sit back, relax, and enjoy LIVE music from West Virginia.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/live/xcKq4ZQHmOY?si=ofD5zEZv5zeQ69--

#3 – From DAILY304 –  Hillbilly Hotdogs in Lesage, West Virginia is a creative culinary destination that has captured national attention. Crave West Virginia talks to owner Sharie Knight about the inspiration behind her unique recipes and why she says her customers can be credited for the restaurant's success. 

From zany décor to mouthwatering hotdogs...you will not be disappointed by this one-of-a-kind roadside restaurant. Check out the video and visit Hillbillyhotdogs.com to learn more about these delicious dogs. 

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=UuSd2dWImw49-C7M&v=Zv_hFlK25z8&feature=youtu.be

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Friday, June 28, 2024.

The History Project explores the life of Francis H. Pierpont, West Virginia’s founding father…Morgantown’s Safe UV creates jobs and healthier spaces in their community with assistance from the WV EDA…and WV’s thriving elk population continues to grow…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From THE HISTORY PROJECT – Considered the “Father of West Virginia,” Francis H. Pierpont was the man needed for the difficult task of gaining the state’s independence from Virginia and entrusted by Lincoln to restore that state to order after the Civil War; the West Virginian who would be Governor of Virginia.

Tune into “The History Project” to learn more about West Virginia’s founding father who shaped the destiny of the Mountain State and the Old Dominion.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fc46gDH8jKs

#2 – From EDA.GOV– Safe UV, based out of Morgantown, are creating jobs and healthier spaces in their community. Made up of WVU alumni, the company manufactures germicidal, ultra-violet lamps – a new product to a relatively new industry. 

It’s not easy, however, to secure funding for the physical capital necessary for UV lamp manufacturing. With help from the West Virginia Economic Development Authority, Safe UV can create more and more manufacturing and technology jobs for their community.

Learn more:

https://eda.wv.gov/this-manufacturer-saw-the-need-for-disinfection-technology-and-got-to-work-with-help-from-wveda/

#3 – From WV COMMERCE – West Virginia's elk herd is thriving thanks to sound management practices, native births and a series of elk transports and releases, which has brought the state's elk population to more than 140.

In the fall, you’ll have a chance to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat with the WVDNR’s elk management tours starting at Chief Logan Lodge. 

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=I5wrEp7etGgvENwA&v=JXGDexT1qto&feature=youtu.be

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Thursday, June 27, 2024.

Complete your summer bucket list for a chance to win a fall getaway in Almost Heaven…Get your tickets for Generation WV’s Summer Soiree featuring a catered meal by 1010 Bridge and award-winning Chef Paul Smith…and Mountain Stage takes its show on the road to Clarksburg in August…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TOURISM – Summer is the perfect time to meet all of your adventure goals in Almost Heaven, from waterfall wandering to local dining. Check off items on WV Tourism’s summer bucket list for the chance to win a fall getaway!

Visit wvtourism.com to download your bucket list and build your own unique itinerary. 

Learn more:

https://wvtourism.com/summer-bucket-list/

#2 – From GENERATION WV –  Generation WV presents Summer Night Soiree. Join us for an evening to recognize notable West Virginians who embody our mission of equipping young West Virginians with the key skills and career opportunities they need to thrive in the Mountain State.

The event takes place Saturday, August 24, at J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works in Malden. The dinner will be catered by 1010 Bridge, under the guidance of 2024 James Beard Award-Winner for Best Chef, Paul Smith. Tickets are on sale now!

Learn more:

https://generationwv.org/support/summer-night-soiree/

#3 – From MOUNTAIN STAGE – On August 18, Mountain Stage Radio Show hits the road for an appearance at Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center in Clarksburg. Guest artists include Paul Thorn, Raul Midon, Wood Box Heroes and more. 

Get your tickets today!

Learn more:

https://mountainstage.org/event/paul-thorn-raul-midon-wood-box-heroes-and-more-on-mountain-stage/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Wednesday, June 26, 2024.

A Greenbrier County barrel maker expands production with help from Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center in building a skilled workforce…The Charleston Area Alliance reveals plans for its new LIFT Center -- that’s “learning, innovation, food, and technology -- on Charleston’s East End…and employers, learn how you can find the perfect match for your job opening through Generation WV’s talent recruitment service…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From MAMC – The Great Barrel Company employs 235 individuals at its cooperage and stave mills in Greenbrier County. Men and women work in tandem with advanced technology to produce barrels from plentiful, sustainable, tight-grained Appalachian white oak. The products serve the Kentucky bourbon industry.

Plant Manager Bryan Lucas said the company expects plans to ramp up production to 225,000 barrels this year and 250,000 by 2025. But to do so requires employees with the necessary skills.

To bridge the skills gap, Great Barrel recently turned to the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center for assistance. MAMC operates Apprenticeship Works, the National Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship Partnership, which helps such manufacturers as Great Barrel develop the talent they need through a grow-your-own approach.

Read more:

https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/barrel-manufacturer-infuses-ancient-art-with-high-tech/

#2 – From METRO NEWS – The 120-year-old Kanawha Manufacturing Company on Charleston’s East End is about to undergo a monumental $20 million transformation into a modernized innovation center.

The Charleston Area Alliance plans to reuse existing manufacturing space in the former warehouse by renovating it and converting it into a 55,000 square foot multi-use facility for workforce development, renewable and alternative energy production, and a commercial food hub. The new facility will be called the LIFT Center– the learning, innovation, food, and technology center.

Marshall University Economic Workforce Development Vice President Brandon Dennison said there is enough space for a total of five tenants to occupy the facility and so far there are three confirmed ones, organizations and programs that will conduct the aforementioned services.

Read more:

https://wvmetronews.com/2024/06/16/charleston-area-alliance-meets-to-provide-community-with-update-on-new-20-million-lift-center-project-coming-to-charlestons-east-end/

#3 – From GENERATION WV – Generation West Virginia’s talent recruitment service helps employers find top talent by offering a streamlined approach to staffing and recruitment in West Virginia.

Here’s how it works: Set up a meeting to discuss hiring needs. GWV uses its recruiting resources and vast network to find at least 3 to 5 qualified candidates, vets them and helps you set up interviews. Find your ideal candidate faster and easier!

Learn more:

https://generationwv.org/programs/career-connector/hire-talent/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is June 25, 2024.

Shepherdstown gears up for its annual Contemporary American Theater Festival…Tamarack’s Ripple Program aims to bring more funding to the arts…and a Logan resident helps launch a global independent game development studio…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WMYW – Artistic Director Peggy McKowen shares how we can discover the ultimate theater experience in Shepherdstown this July at the Contemporary American Theater Festival.

Each summer, the festival offers bold, new plays, allowing audiences to experience the entire season in just two days. Shepherdstown also hosts historic sites, cultural events, and unique boutiques, providing a charming and elegant atmosphere for visitors making it a place the whole family can enjoy - indoors and out! 

Tune in to What Makes You Wonderful podcast to hear McKowen deliver the scoop on this award-winning festival.

Listen now:

https://daily304.libsyn.com/wmyw-and-the-contemporary-american-theater-festival-2024

#2 – From DOMINION POST –  In January, the Tamarack Foundation for the Arts jump started its Ripple Program within the Morgantown community, designed to bring $10,000 to the local community to initiate two artistic projects. 

Over the past five months, a group of dedicated community members worked together to brainstorm and bring impactful creative projects to life, receiving additional support from the Visit Mountaineer Country Conventions and Visitors Bureau and the Main Street Morgantown Affiliate Program. 

Since its beginning in the Morgantown community in early 2024, the Ripple Program has supported seven events specifically designed and created to uplift our local artisans. 

Read more:

https://www.dominionpost.com/2024/06/13/tamarack-foundation-creates-ripple-effect-for-local-events/

#3 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – Two industry veterans officially launched a global independent game development studio in Logan recently.

Aaron Chambers, a native of Logan and former executive for PlayStation and Twitch, and Simone Di Gravio, a former leader at Epic Games, are the co-founders of PlayKigai, an international collective of game developers and digital artists spanning the United States and Europe.

Chambers, who works remotely from Logan and Di Gravio, who works remotely from Milan, Italy, have branded PlayKigai a “forever remote” company in an attempt to attract the best talent possible. Their goal is to grow their contract staff to 8 to 12 people in the next quarter.

Chambers believes the studio’s approach will create opportunities for aspiring young developers who don’t want to leave their local communities to grow their careers. 

Read more:

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/business/my-hometown-former-playstation-epic-games-leaders-launch-game-studio-in-logan/article_ce73a2c5-f8d1-575d-8bd6-be98d5a1a961.html

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Monday, June 24, 2024 

It’s sweet news for one agricultural industry in West Virginia as maple syrup production experiences a notable increase…Anglers, before you head to the rivers and streams, check out some helpful fishing info from WVDNR…and The History Project addresses the 80-year anniversary of the deadly Shinnston tornado…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV NEWS – Maple syrup production in West Virginia is experiencing a notable increase, according to a recent release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In 2023, the state produced approximately 11,000 gallons of sweet maple syrup, a figure that rose to around 12,000 gallons in 2024. 

Sales data for 2024 will be published in June 2025 as part of the Crop Production Report. To learn more about maple syrup production in the Mountain State, visit West Virginia Maple Syrup Producers Association at wvmspa.org.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/west-virginias-maple-syrup-production-on-the-rise/article_86bfb4ee-290b-11ef-af64-4b0f32b4caf3.html

#2 – From WVDNR – Anglers, take note. West Virginia is known as the Mountain State, and the unique topography gives the state an abundance of rivers and streams. With waters ranging from small headwater brook trout streams to raging whitewater rivers to large, navigable rivers, West Virginia offers many opportunities for fishing and boating.

To learn more about fishing and boating access, visit the WVDNR Interactive Fishing Map.

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/lands-waters/rivers-and-streams/

#3 – From THE HISTORY PROJECT– With its steep topography, residents in West Virginia are typically more concerned with floods than tornadoes, but in 1944, the Appalachian tornado outbreak unleashed fury upon the mountains, leaving destruction and death in its wake. A category F-4 storm tested the resilience of Shinnston and the surrounding area.

Tune into The History Project to learn about that fateful day on June 23, 1944, when West Virginia’s worst tornado erased the state’s sense of immunity from such storms.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=M8_VV0Ker9SR_uot&v=UQbUaxTF4-s&feature=youtu.be

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.