The Mountain Ascent

We hope these stories of positive change achieved through community action move you to get involved in your own community!

Remember to help us spread the good news by sharing The Mountain Ascent with your friends and family inside and outside of the region and by encouraging them to subscribe.

And please share your news from Southwest Virginia that makes you feel inspired and we’ll try to include it in a future issue.

Southwest Virginia Plans to Build Around Diversity, Sustainability, and Creativity

Groups and individuals across the region are working towards a new, sustainable economic story for Southwest Virginia by focusing on recreation, agriculture, entrepreneurship, clean energy and mine land reclamation.

Aquaculture Company Invests $228 Million for Southwest Virginia Facility

The company Pure Salmon has invested in the “largest vertically integrated indoor aquaculture facility," named Project Jonah. The company plans to build the facility on the border of Tazewell and Russell counties and is projected to provide more than 200 jobs for Southwest Virginians.

Programs Supporting Local Tourism Receive $40,000 in Scott County, Gate City

The funds will go toward tourism initiatives to increase visitation at recreation spots such as the Devil’s Bathtub, Little Stony Falls, and the Clinch River.

VCEDA Board Approves $1 Million Renewable Energy Fund

Coalfield Employment Enhancement Tax Credit funds will be used to support Southwest Virginia’s economic transition to renewable energy and new industry in the region. The decision received praise across the region from the Solar Workgroup of Southwest Virginia, Appalachian Council for Innovation and Ascent Virginia.

Events

Job Opportunities

12/05, 12/16, 12/19 Virtual Event: Solar Letter Writing Parties

12/08 Virtual Event: The Clinch Coalition's Virtual Holiday Gathering

12/11 Webinar: Soil Farming, Pollinator Habitat, and Engaging with Community

12/15 Virtual Event: Appalachian Voices Membership Meeting

12/15 Webinar: Coal Reclamation and Bankruptcies on Post-SMCRA Mines

Appalachian Sustainable Development — Regional Sales and Marketing Manager

Appalshop — General Manager, Development Coordinator, Operations Director

Norton Rescue Squad — Two Part-Time EMTs

Highlander Center — Education Team Member for Economics & Governance Program

We Want to Hear From You!

The Solar Workgroup of Southwest Virginia is dedicated to advancing solar energy in Southwest Virginia by advocating for state legislation that will bring solar jobs to our region. In order to understand what you would like to see in your community, we are asking what you think we should focus on and how you would like to participate in the 2021 Virginia General Assembly session.

Let Us Know!

816 Park Avenue NW | Norton, Virginia