Lesser Known NRV Hiking Trails Featured in The Roanoke Times

Lesser Known NRV Hiking Trails Featured in The Roanoke Times

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New River Valley, VA – Want to escape outdoors for a hike during the COVID-19 pandemic? The Roanoke Times recently featured an article on lesser known hiking trails in Virginia’s New River Valley.

More and more people are heading outdoors this summer. The Outdoor Industry Association recently found that in April, May, and June of 2020, national hiking participation was up 8.4% compared to those same months in 2019. Because of this increased interest, some of the better-known trails in the region are crowded with hikers. Lesser known trails are a great option for those looking to physically distance while still enjoying the outdoor amenities and natural beauty of Virginia’s New River Valley.

Here’s a list of the trails featured in the article:

  • Gatewood Reservoir Park, Pulaski
  • Harvey Lee Price Trail, Prices Fork
  • Mary Draper Ingles Trail, Glen Lyn
  • Narrows Mill Creek, Narrows
  • Ellett Valley Nature Trail, Blacksburg

    • Read the full article, including more details about each of the trails, from the Roanoke Times here.

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    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.

    FastForward Prepares NRV Workforce for Jobs in Manufacturing

    FastForward Prepares NRV Workforce for Jobs in Manufacturing

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    Pulaski County, VA – New River Community College (NRCC)’s FastForward Program was highlighted in an article in the July 2020 issue of Valley Business Front. The program is run by NRCC’s Office of Workforce Development and is designed to help individuals in Virginia’s New River Valley prepare and train for in-demand careers.

    According to the article, “FastForward was made possible by the New Economy Workforce Credential Grant Program, developed during the 2016 General Assembly Session, to create and sustain a supply of credentialed workers to fill high-demand occupations in fields which support the state’s economy while making the attainment of these credentials more affordable.”

    Several of the FastForward training programs at NRCC are designed to serve students looking for careers in the manufacturing industry. There are two Six Sigma certification programs that are offered in partnership with the college’s Manufacturing Technology Center. In addition, the college is adding a Certified Production Technician (CPT) program in Spring 2021. This goal of this Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) program is to “raise the level of performance of production technicians both to assist the individuals in finding higher-wage jobs and to help employers ensure their workforce increases the company’s productivity and competitiveness.”

    Virginia’s New River Valley is a hub for the advanced manufacturing industry, and training programs like FastForward help to strengthen the industry’s talent pool in the region.

    Read the full article from Valley Business Front about the NRCC FastForward program here.

    Learn more about the NRCC FastForward program here.

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    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.

    NRV Highlighted as Lesser-Known Summer Vacation in VA

    NRV Highlighted as Lesser-Known Summer Vacation in VA

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    New River Valley, VA – During the COVID-19 pandemic, people are searching for vacations that are fun and allow for physical distancing. It is a great time to consider visiting Virginia’s New River Valley. The region was highlighted as one of the “Lesser-Known Summer Vacations in Virginia” by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

    Here is what the Virginia is for Lovers blog has to say about the region:

    “Organized along the New River between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, the New River Valley in Southwest Virginia contains cities like Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Pulaski, and Radford. With the New River as the focal point, water sports in the valley are becoming a big draw for travelers interested in exploring Virginia’s rushing waterways.”

    The outdoor amenities available in Virginia’s New River Valley make the region a unique place to live, work, and play. Learn more about travel to the NRV in the article here.

    Note: Please contact destinations highlighted in the article prior to visiting since COVID-19 public health guidelines may have changed opening hours and activity availability.

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    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.

    NRV Manufacturing Industry Featured in Valley Business FRONT

    NRV Manufacturing Industry Featured in Valley Business FRONT

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    New River Valley, VA – The August 2020 issue of Valley Business FRONT featured an article titled, “Not Your Father’s Manufacturing Industry”. The article showcased the manufacturing industry in Virginia’s New River Valley.

    The region is a hub for the manufacturing industry, with, according to the article, “140 manufacturers… located in the New River Valley. The sector employs 12,000 people, making it one of the top five employment industries.”

    The article discussed current trends and challenges in manufacturing globally, nationally, and locally. One such challenge is training the workforce to adapt to the increased automation in the industry. Local institutions, such as New River Community College, have implemented programs for students to ensure that qualified employees are available to meet the changing needs of manufacturers in the region.

    Read the entire article from Valley Business FRONT here. Learn more about manufacturing in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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    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.

    Popular NRV Water Spots Win Awards from Blue Ridge Country Magazine

    Popular NRV Water Spots Win Awards from Blue Ridge Country Magazine

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    New River Valley, VA – Popular water spots across Virginia’s New River Valley won awards in the 2020 Mountain Blue reader poll from Blue Ridge Country magazine. The poll asked magazine readers to vote on the best water-related locations and businesses for each state in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Five locations and businesses in the NRV were included among the winners.

    Best Virginia Waterfall
    Cascade Falls (Giles County)– Platinum Winner

    Best Virginia Water-Related State Park
    New River Trail State Park (Pulaski County) – Silver Winner
    Claytor Lake State Park (Pulaski County) – Honorable Mention

    Best Virginia Swimming Hole
    Dismal Falls (Giles County) – Honorable Mention

    Best Virginia River & Fishing Outfitter
    Tangent Outfitters (Giles County)– Silver Winner

    These poll winners are just some of the many unique outdoor amenities that Virginia’s New River Valley has to offer. Learn more about the outdoors across the NRV here.

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    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.

    Virginia Living Magazine Recognizes NRV Destinations and Businesses in Best of Virginia 2020 Awards

    Virginia Living Magazine Recognizes NRV Destinations and Businesses in Best of Virginia 2020 Awards

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    New River Valley, VA – Fifteen destinations and businesses across Virginia’s New River Valley won Best of Virginia 2020 Awards for the Southwest Virginia region.  Virginia Living magazine published the annual list of winners in their special Best of Virginia 2020 issue.  The magazine tallied over 55,000 ballots to determine this year’s winners.

    The NRV’s winners and runners-up are listed below by category.

    Restaurants
    India Garden Restaurant – Winner – Best Indian Restaurant
    Sal’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria – Winner – Best Italian Restaurant
    Cabo Fish Taco – Winner – Best Seafood Restaurant
    Gillie’s – Winner – Best Restaurant for Vegans or Vegetarians
    Macado’s – Winner – Best Sandwich Shop
    The Farmhouse – Winner – Best Outdoor Dining
    Due South BBQ – Barbecue Restaurant
    Dogtown Roadhouse – Pizzeria
    Palisades Restaurant – Restaurant
    Our Daily Bread Bakery & Bistro – Restaurant for Vegans and Vegetarians, Dessert
    Red Rooster Coffee Roasters – Coffee Shop or Roaster
    Mill Mountain Coffee & Tea – Coffee Shop or Roaster
    Thai This Food Truck – Food Truck

    Food Shopping
    Our Daily Bread Bakery & Bistro – Bakery
    Blacksburg Farmers’ Market – Farmer’s Market
    Harvest Moon Food Store – Specialty/Gourmet Food Shop
    Vintage Cellar – Wine Shop

    Drink
    Five Mile Mountain Distillery – Winner – Best Distillery
    Chateau Morrisette Winery – Winner – Best Winery
    Buffalo Mountain Brewery – Brewery
    Iron Heart Winery – Winery

    Entertainment & Events
    Wine & Design – Winner – Best Entertainment Center for Adults
    Floyd Center for the Arts – Art Gallery
    Floyd Country Store – Music Venue

    Travel
    Mountain Lake Lodge – Resort

    Outdoors & Active
    Cascade Falls – Hiking or Biking Trail

    Home
    Warm Hearth Village – Retirement Community

    Services
    Brown Edwards – Winner – Best Accounting Firm
    Shelor Motor Mile – Winner – Best Car Dealer

    Pets
    Blacksburg Dog Park – Winner –  Best Dog Park
    Off Leash K9 Training – Winner – Best Dog Training Company
    Sparky’s Run Dog Park – Dog Park

    Kids
    Xtreme Springz Trampoline Park – Winner – Best Birthday Party Place
    Alta Mons Summer Camp and Retreat Center – Summer Camp

    Health
    New River Dermatology – Winner – Best Dermatology Practice
    Medical Associates of Southwest Virginia – Primary Care Practice
    River Ridge Dermatology – Dermatology Practice
    Sideline Orthopedic & Sports Medicine – Orthopedic Practice
    Tuck Chiropractic Clinic – Chiropractic Clinic

    Beauty
    Nail Envy – Nail Salon

    Weddings & Special Events
    Chantilly Lace Bridals, Formals, & Tuxedos – Bridal Boutique

    Shopping
    Finders Keepers – Antiques
    East Coasters – Bicycle Shop
    Whistle Stop Books – Bookstore
    The Upscale Attic – Consignment Shop
    New River Valley Mall – Shopping Mall
    Hey Helen – Women’s Clothing Store

    The winners and runners-up of the Best of Virginia 2020 Awards are just some of the unique destinations and businesses that make Virginia’s New River Valley a great place to live, work, and do business.

    Learn more about the Best of Virginia 2020 Awards here.

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    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.

    Pulaski County Project Ranked 3rd Largest in VA for 2019

    Pulaski County Project Ranked 3rd Largest in VA for 2019

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    Pulaski County, VA – Volvo Trucks North America’s expansion in Pulaski County was recognized by Area Development magazine as one of 2019’s top economic development projects in Virginia. It was ranked third in the state with 777 new jobs created and an investment of $400 million.

    Here’s what Area Development had to say about Volvo and Virginia’s New River Valley:

    “Virginia was a big winner in 2019, too, with 777 jobs being created by Volvo Trucks North America in Pulaski County. State leaders called the $400 million investment on of the largest ever in the southwest part of the state.”

    The project helped Virginia win the 2020 Gold Shovel Award for states with a population of 8 – 12 million people. This annual award from Area Development “recognize[s] states for their achievement in attracting high-value investment projects that will create a significant number of new jobs in their communities.”

    Virginia’s New River Valley is a hub for the advanced manufacturing industry. The region boasts over 100 manufacturing companies in sub-sectors such as chemicals, plastics and materials, automotive, and motion control systems.

    Here is the list of the Top 5 projects in Virginia for 2019:

    RankCompanyCity/CountyN/EJobsInvestmentIndustry
    1AmazonArlington CountyN25,000$2.5 billionHeadquarters
    2Incentive Technology GroupArlington CountyE1,000$5.1 millonIT
    3Volvo Trucks North AmericaPulaski CountyE777$400 millionHeavy Trucks
    4Morgan Olsen, LLCPittsylvania CountyN703$57.8 millionWalk-in Step Vans
    5WegmansHanover CountyN700$206 millionDistribution
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    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.

    MOVA Technologies Prototype Testing

    MOVA Technologies Receives Proof of Concept for Panel-Bed Filtration System

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    Pulaski County, VA – Virginia Business Magazine recently highlighted Pulaski-based MOVA Technologies in an article about Project Revolution, the company’s panel-bed filtration system. The article discussed a preliminary report, released from researchers in Virginia Tech’s Advanced Propulsion and Power Laboratory, confirming proof of concept for this system.

    Here is what the article had to say about the report’s findings:

    “According to the report, ‘the Virginia Tech team believes that a successful POC was achieved,’ meaning that the system captures gaseous pollutants.”

    The patented technology collects pollutants from the air while extracting recyclable chemicals, including fly ash, nitrogen oxide, sulfur oxide, and carbon dioxide. It is not only less expensive than current systems, but it also allows for the chemicals to be collected and reused by other manufacturers.

    Virginia’s New River Valley is a hub for the manufacturing and technology industries. Companies like MOVA Technologies are moving the region forward by innovating new systems and technologies such as Project Revolution.

    Watch the video below to learn more about the filtration system or read an official press relase from MOVA Technologies about the report here.

    Read the full article from Virginia Business Magazine here.

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    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.

    Job Board Launched on Virginia's New River Valley Website

    Job Board Launched on Virginia’s New River Valley Website

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    New River Valley, VA – Many employers in Virginia’s New River Valley are hiring amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Onward NRV, a public/private, regional economic development organization, launched an online Job Board in March 2020 to help connect employees looking for work with employers that have job openings.

    The job board can be found on the Virginia’s New River Valley website. It features a section for job listings from featured employers in the region.

    Job seekers can also use the job board to search for new career opportunities in specific industries. Listings are available in eight different job categories:

  • Technology
  • Manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Accounting and Finance
  • Construction and Architecture
  • Education
  • Human Resources
  • Marketing and Sales

    • In addition to searching by industry, potential employees can also search and filter through all jobs available in Virginia’s New River Valley. Over 100 available jobs have been posted to the job board within the last two weeks. All sections of the job board are powered by Indeed, the #1 job site in the world.

    Onward NRV’s mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. Onward promotes economic vitality in the region through supporting the growth of four targeted industries: Information Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Food Processing & Agribusiness, and Unmanned Systems. The job board is one way the organization is working to connect employees with employers in these targeted industries. Learn more about Onward NRV here.

    Click here to browse the job board and learn more about career opportunities currently available in Virginia’s New River Valley.

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    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.

    Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech

    Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech Ranked 19th Best Golf Course in Virginia for 2020

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    Fairlawn, VA – The Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech was recently ranked #19 in the 2020 list of the Top 50 golf courses in Virginia.  The course was also rated #9 on the 2020 list of courses which do not require a membership to play.  Both lists were compiled by the Virginia Golf Ratings Panel and highlighted in Virginia Business Magazine’s April 2020 issue.

    The River Course, home of the Virginia Tech men’s and women’s golf teams, is well known for its scenic views and 2.5 miles of frontage on the New River, which is the oldest river in North America.  It has won many accolades since being redesigned by famous golf course designer Pete Dye beginning in 2003.

    Located in Pulaski County, this par 72 course is one of the many golf courses available to avid golfers living and working in Virginia’s New River Valley.  To learn more about the Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech, visit www.petedyerivercourse.com.

    See the full golf course rankings list here.

    Correction:
    September 1, 2021: This blog post was corrected to reflect that Pete Dye River Course was ranked #19 in the top 50 golf courses in Virginia for 2020. A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the course was ranked #18.

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    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.