Recreation Economy Growing in Giles County

Giles County, VA – The recreation economy is growing and expanding in Giles County. The county is one of only ten communities across the country to participate in the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the EPA, “[t]he Recreation Economy for Rural Communities planning assistance program helps communities identify strategies to grow their outdoor recreation economy and revitalize their Main Streets.”

Giles County was one of the ten inaugural communities selected to participate in this project, which started in 2019. Here is how the EPA described the Giles County project:

“Giles County, Virginia, worked with the USDA Forest Service to manage and use Cascades Falls and other natural assets to attract residents and visitors to downtown Pembroke, Narrows, and other communities in the county.”

Watch this video to learn more about Giles County’s project for the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program:

Watch the video directly on YouTube here.

Learn more about the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities Program here.

Explore Giles County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

Photo credit: Photo by Alissa Moody.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.