The catalog of problems where we live is long and its causes are deep. However, we are not asset-less.
In addition to strong rail and highway connectivity and centrality to the East Coast, Northeast, and Midwest, our region is also out of the way of major weather events such as hurricanes and tornadoes. Moreover, McDowell County, WV, in particular, already has significant rail freight passing through, and many local buildings and site still have rail access. McDowell County also still sits on 100,000+ inhabitant worth of infrastructure, with much real estate, lots, buildings, and other assets ready to be repurpose.
EDGE is promoting asset-based research to ascertain upgrowth capacity in natural resources beyond minerals, and, which can be utilized and expanded sustainably.
In particular, partnerships between West Virginia State University and EDGE are exploring tree stock capacity through tree surveys and drones for a local cottage industry in tree syrups. EDGE is also seeking to expand this surveying to tree stock capacity for expanding honey production.
