Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin today announced a $1 million grant that will benefit workers in Logan, Boone and Mingo counties. Joined by Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Cabinet Secretary Randy Huffman, Gov. Tomblin presented a check to the Human Resource Development Foundation (HRDF) for a project that will employ West Virginians to clear trash and debris from the Guyandotte River and several tributaries.
“This project will provide West Virginians with the job opportunities that are badly needed in this region, which has been acutely impacted by the downturn in the coal industry. At the same time, we’re giving people the chance to help clean up and strengthen their communities,” said Gov. Tomblin. “Keeping our landscape clean and beautiful not only helps preserve our environment and protect public health, but it also attracts tourists and boosts our economy. This truly is a win-win for Southern West Virginia.”
Upon hearing of the HRDF’s goal to hire workers to clean up the Guyandotte River Watershed, DEP Cabinet Secretary Randy Huffman said he and his staff, “realized we had an opportunity to partner with a very worthwhile organization that does a lot of good for the environment, area communities and the state as a whole.”
In conjunction with the grant award, the Governor’s Office and DEP have organized a cleanup of the Guyandotte River in the Three Mile Curve area tomorrow (Sept. 24), from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Trash bags and gloves will be provided. Volunteers may register the day of the cleanup, starting at 8:30 a.m., at the Ralph R. Willis Career and Technical Center gazebo. Forms will be provided for anyone wishing to receive community service hours.
For more DEP news and information, visit www.dep.wv.gov.
