Western Rural Development Center

Empowering People.

Strengthening Communities.

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Date: July 20-24, 2026

Location: Boise, Idaho

Hosted by: WRDC

Elevating Rural Economies Since 1972

At the Western Rural Development Center, we believe in the limitless potential of rural communities to lead and thrive. We’re here for you and your community. We know the unique challenges rural areas face and believe in your ability to overcome them and thrive. Whether you’re a farmer, entrepreneur, or community leader, we partner to turn challenges into opportunities. With Western land grant universities and local organizations, we’re creating real, lasting change to help your community grow stronger, more resilient, and ready for the future. Your success is our mission, and we’re with you every step of the way. Together, we’re cultivating a stronger, more vibrant rural America.

OUR PRIORITIES

little village near a lake. Green moutains stretch far in the background

Advancing the Social and Economic Impact of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Systems

Snowy mountains from the background are reflected in a very clear lake in the forefront of the image. It is sunny.

Improving the Social and Economic Impact of Natural Resource Sustainability

overhanging view of a fair and tents in the street of a little town. The street is surrounded by trees.

Promoting Community and Family Development and Health

RECENT NEWS & EVENTS

  • Understanding Rural–Non-Rural Gaps in Career Development Participation: New Insights from a National Study
    Colleges increasingly emphasize internships, career counseling, and work-based learning as essential steps in preparing students for the transition from college to employment. A growing body of research shows that students who take part in these activities experience better hiring outcomes and stronger early-career earnings.
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  • Conference attendees (~30 people) pose on a wooden deck in Hawaii, with green mountains and a palm tree behind them. Arranged in three rows, most wear name tags and casual-to-business attire — including one Hawaiian shirt. Captures a professional gathering in a tropical setting.
    WRDC Community Development Workshop Brings Land-Grant Professionals Together in Honolulu
    In early April, the Western Rural Development Center (WRDC) convened land-grant faculty, Extension professionals, and applied researchers for the WRDC Community Development Workshop in Honolulu, Hawai‘i.
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  • Community Development Institute West Curriculum Announced
    CDI West offers training in the essentials of creating healthy communities and economies – critical to survive and thrive in a time of shifting funding, policies and priorities. The Rural West needs increased local capacity, civic engagement and leadership development; new revenue and cooperative models; strong civic institutions; and a sense of shared responsibility and local ownership—all strategies covered at CDI West.
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