oUR HISTORY

The Western Rural Development Center (WRDC) is one of four regional rural development centers (RRDCs) located throughout the United States. These centers were created by the Rural Development Act of 1972 and are jointly administered by the USDA and the host institution operating for the Extension services and agricultural experiment stations in the respective region.

The RRDCs’ administrations operate under a framework of collaboration, accountability and resource coordination, guided by the provisions of Title V and the regulations established by the United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA NIFA). The RRDCs work closely with USDA NIFA to ensure the effective delivery of programs and services that advance rural development.

Each regional center administers the regional programs within its designated region. The director assumes responsibility for compliance with Title V provisions and related regulations. Regions are delineated based on the framework established by the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities (APLU), ensuring alignment with broader institutional structures and priorities.

The WRDC is established through a collaboration between AG Innovation West and the Western Extension Directors Association (WEDA). These associations and organizations play a crucial role in designating the location of the WRDC, ensuring accessibility and representation within the communities we serve.

The Western Rural Development Center was initially hosted by Oregon State University and remained there until 1999. It was then relocated to Utah State University, where it was based until 2024, when it was moved to the University of Idaho, where it remains today.