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Communities in West Virginia offer residents a welcoming atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and a strong sense of connection to nature and neighbors alike. From charming small towns to vibrant cities like Charleston and Morgantown, West Virginia communities provide friendly neighborhoods, excellent schools, and access to outdoor recreation right at your doorstep. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life, surrounded by the state’s beautiful mountains, rivers, and forests, as well as rich local culture, historic sites, and community events that bring people together.

 

With safe streets, local businesses, and a true spirit of Appalachian hospitality, living in West Virginia communities means enjoying a high quality of life and a supportive, tight-knit environment where everyone feels at home. Be sure to visit our Communities Travel Guide for information about communities in West Virginia.

A field of hemp in West Virginia greets the dawn.
Communities

West Virginia submits hemp plan to U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

by Clyde Craig

The West Virginia Department of Agriculture has submitted the state’s plan to regulate industrial hemp to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and officials are working toward the most business-friendly outcome possible. Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt said his office will continue to work with producers, who in 2019 produced a remarkably successful crop. “There is … Read more

Concord Charlie peers out from among a tendrils of ivy.
Communities

Walker named Grand Groundhog Watcher at Concord University

by David Sibray

Officials at Concord University have named Mountain Lion head football coach Dave Walker as Grand Groundhog Watcher for 2020, joining “Concord Charlie” in the spotlight during this year’s Groundhog Day Breakfast. According to tradition, if Charlie or any other apt groundhog sees his shadow on the morning of February 2, six more weeks of winter … Read more

A student trudges across University Avenue near Woodburn Circle in Morgantown in winter. (Fhoto illustration by David Sibray)
Communities

WVU reminds campus communities of winter weather procedures

by David Sibray

Officials at West Virginia University are reminding students, faculty, and staff that as temperatures fall and the possibility of inclement weather increases, they are expected to exercise caution and use personal judgment before venturing out. Maryanne Reed, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, promises that the safety of faculty and staff outweighs all other … Read more

A new agricultural program has been launched to help veterans engaging in agriculture.
Communities

W.Va. launches new farming assistance program for vets

by David Sibray

The West Virginia Department of Agriculture has launched a new agricultural training series for veterans in West Virginia, according to state Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt. The Veteran Education Training Series, also known as VETS, will host its first session “Boots-to-Business” at the West Virginia Small Farm Conference on February 20, though more classes will … Read more

Fraternity and sorority members show higher academic performance than West Virginia University students at large.
Communities

WVU fraternities and sororities maintain above-average GPAs

by Clyde Craig

Fraternity and sorority life might be perceived as a distraction, but West Virginia University has announced that members of such organizations show higher academic performance than students at large. The fall 2019 average for such students was 3.240 compared to 2.969, according to Matthew Richardson, director of the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life. “The … Read more

McMurran Hall at Shepherd University fronts East German Street in historic Shepherdstown, West Virginia.
Communities

Shepherd University develops Appalachian leadership institute

by David Sibray

The Shepherd University Center for Appalachian Studies and Communities is accepting applications from teachers and community leaders in Jefferson and Berkeley counties for a new community leadership institute. Titled “Voices from the Misty Mountains, Reclaiming Our Story for a New Appalachia,” the institute will take place will take place February 4-April 28 on Tuesdays from … Read more

Looking across the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia, mountain ranges recede into the distance. (Photo courtesy WVU)
Communities

WVU to unveil economic plan for Potomac highlands

by David Sibray

The five-county area comprising the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia could improve economically by embracing and promoting its regional identity, according to a new study published by three West Virginia University centers. After a year and a half of research, the plan, which recommends several strategic actions to promote economic prosperity in the region, will … Read more