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David Sibray

David Sibray is the founder, publisher and editor-in-chief of West Virginia Explorer, a news and travel magazine devoted to the state’s history, tourism, outdoor recreation and economic development. For more information, he may be reached at 304-575-7390 or at editor@wvexplorer.com
The study represents the most comprehensive economic impact assessment ever conducted for the university and its affiliated health system. (WVU Photo)
Communities

Study finds WVU and its health system account for 17% of West Virginia’s economy

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — West Virginia University and the WVU Health System together generate $14.3 billion in annual economic impact in West Virginia, accounting for approximately 17% of the state’s gross domestic product, according to a newly released independent study. The analysis, conducted by national consulting firm Tripp Umbach, found the combined operations at the university … Read more

Outdoor economy in West Virginia: In West Virginia, where natural assets are abundant but traditional industries have declined, outdoor recreation offers a development model that is place-based, scalable, and difficult to outsource.
Communities

West Virginia hosts outdoor economy summit as communities rethink economics

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — For many West Virginia communities, outdoor recreation is no longer a quality-of-life extra. It’s the new economic infrastructure that’s attracting private investment, supporting small businesses, and helping retain and attract a workforce. That shift in thinking is the driving force behind the inaugural West Virginia Outdoor Economy Summit, which will bring civic … Read more

Ready sites: Funding will support early-stage site development, enabling companies to move more quickly when deciding where to locate new facilities in the Mountain State.
Communities

Morrisey awards $2.1 million for business-ready sites in 23 W.Va. counties

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Ahead of the start of the 2026 legislative session, Gov. Patrick Morrisey has awarded $2.1 million in grants aimed at preparing “business-ready” development sites across 23 counties in West Virginia. In an announcement released Monday from Charleston, the governor said the funding will support early-stage site development, enabling companies to move more … Read more

Experts at West Virginia University say tick diseases are on the rise as encounters with humans increase. (WVU Extension Photo)
Communities

Ticks on the rise in West Virginia: WVU experts warn of Lyme, alpha-gal risks

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Two West Virginia University experts are warning residents and visitors that ticks are more prevalent than ever, and encounters with them are increasingly causing serious health risks. According to Timothy Driscoll, an associate professor of biology in the university’s Eberly College of Arts and Sciences in Morgantown, changing environmental conditions are driving … Read more