West Virginia Week in Review - November 30, 2024

West Virginia Week in Review

​ ​ Share Tweet Forward Gov. Justice launches West Virginia Ruffed Grouse and Wildlife Restoration program Initiative will enhance wildlife habitats and support local economies through innovative land management practices Gov. Justice announced the launch of the West Virginia Ruffed Grouse and Wildlife Restoration Program, a groundbreaking initiative to enhance wildlife habitats through the strategic planting of soft mast-producing trees and shrubs on recently harvested private timberlands.  This innovative program is designed to provide vital food sources for a variety of wildlife species, including ruffed grouse, white-tailed deer and songbirds, while also benefiting landowners and local economies. It will be administered through a cooperative effort led by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and West Virginia Division of Forestry. “We’ve been working for quite some time to launch this program, and let me tell you, I am extremely excited to announce its launch,” Gov. Justice said. “As a lifelong hunter and angler, I’m so proud of the work my administration has done to invest in West Virginia and promote our state’s world-class natural resources. The strides made in this program will greatly boost our wildlife, from grouse to deer and on and on, while also becoming a huge economic driver. This program is the real deal, and I cannot wait to see how it benefits landowners, our wildlife, and our economy.” Facebook Read More X Gov. Justice announces launch of West Virginia State Parks Online Merchandise Store Just in time for the holidays, Gov. Justice and West Virginia State Parks announced the launch of its official online merchandise store. This new online hub offers fans of West Virginia’s iconic parks an easy way to shop for their favorite gear, featuring everything from cozy crewnecks and water bottles to magnets. Shop WV State Parks Online Merchandise Store “We’re excited to give folks across the country a convenient way to bring a piece of Almost Heaven into their homes,” Gov. Justice said. “West Virginia State Parks have always been a source of pride for our state, and this new online store is the perfect way to share that pride with the world, just in time for the holidays.” Read More First Lady Justice unveils official 2024 limited edition Christmas Ornament First Lady Cathy Justice joined West Virginia Arts, Culture and History Cabinet Secretary Randall Reid-Smith to unveil her official 2024 limited edition Christmas ornament. Click here to view photos from unveiling This year’s Christmas ornament beautifully showcases West Virginia’s iconic State Capitol building, as seen from the south side overlooking the Kanawha River. Adding a playful touch, West Virginia’s beloved First Dog, Babydog, is featured to the side of the Capitol. The West Virginia state flag proudly waves in the upper right corner, tying together this heartfelt tribute to our state’s heritage and charm. “We wanted this year’s ornament to be a special tribute, tying together the incredible eight years we’ve spent as West Virginia’s First Family,” First Lady Justice said. “This state and its people mean the world to Jim and me, and it has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your Governor and First Lady. Our Capitol building is a breathtaking symbol of West Virginia, and we knew it had to be at the heart of this design—along with Babydog, of course, who had to make her mark!” Photo Album Read More Also this week:  Gov. Justice announces return of WVDNR’s “Gift the Outdoors” holiday promotion Thanksgiving holiday travel forecast announced for West Virginia Turnpike West Virginia Governor's Highway Safety Program Recognizes Older Driver Safety Awareness Week ###