California’s vulnerability to wildfires affects water districts’ liability

While recent wildfires in California have destroyed land and structures, and   killed residents, their threat to water districts has received less attention but is just as devastating.

Amid lack of federal investment in drinking water infrastructure, prices continue to increase

Although Congress and the White House have assured Americans of a plan to invest in drinking water pipes and sewage treatment plants, both rural and urban communities are for now relying on existing loans and grants. Meanwhile, drinking water costs are rising, albeit incrementally.

New Mexico consortium aims to expand lending in low-income communities

Entrepreneurs in low-income and immigrant communities often lack access to capital that could help expand their businesses, thereby easing generational poverty. These business leaders, moreover, tend to rely on informal lenders who offer small, costly, high-interest loans that can lead them into a debt cycle.

Census accuracy concerns raised in Coachella Valley

Changes to the way the 2020 Census will be conducted, along with ongoing U.S. Postal Service challenges, could impact how accurately Coachella Valley residents are counted.

USDA announces 47 rural communities and regions that will receive technical assistance to help build long-term economic growth

WASHINGTON, June 6, 2019 – Acting Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Joel Baxley today announced the names of 47 rural communities and regions that will receive technical assistance to help create and implement long-term economic development plans.