Is Rural America Recession Proof?
In his news conferences, president-elect Barack Obama, has repeatedly linked economic recovery with
new jobs in the sustainable-energy sector. He's been doing this pretty consistently since the election.
Maybe he really means it? If so what does this mean to rural Montana -- or roughly 2/3 of the state?
When it comes to economic growth, most rural areas of the prairie region have been on the edge for
years simply because of population erosion. If one of the plans for economic recovery includes pulling
the plug on farm subsidies, grants et al, it may be the nudge needed that ends life on the plains as we
know it. But it may also open a gold mine of other opportunities.
One of the best opportunities for sustained economic vitality and job growth is creating jobs in clean
renewable energy -- solar, wind, and biofuels. Clean energy jobs are vital to agriculture and rural
communities' economies. They offer opportunities to people who are just getting started and those who
are looking to change careers.
There is a sense of urgency to get started. And there are hundreds of opportunities available that could
turn out to be the dream careers. All it takes is a little research and imagination. Below are a couple
articles that that may help provide an inspirational jump start, especially for graduating High School
seniors and college students, or anybody looking to get involved in the renewable energy industry.
From Dream to Reality -- Montana's First Biofuels Community College Program
By Kristin Buck, WIRED Grant Project Director,
Miles Community College, Miles City, Montana
Area Couple Wins Big for Inventing Personal Wind Turbine
By RICHARD ECKE • Great Falls Tribune Staff Writer
.......................................................................................................................................................
One other thing Obama mentioned, he said, "government will not have all the answers for a quick fix for
the economy." "People are going to have meet it half way, make some serious concessions and come
up with solutions on their own." So we took his advice and here's ours -- the Biofest Tour. It's an ongoing
outdoor trade show designed to show case businesses providing alternative energy products, services,
career opportunities and more in the emerging energy industry. Click on the ad below for further
information, or call 406-765-1401 for sponsorship opportunities and how you can become involved.
dennisk@nemont.net .
|
