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 administration of the RRDCs operates 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 aimed at advancing the development of rural areas.

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

The WRDC is established through collaboration between the Western Association of State Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (WAAESD) 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.