Local ranch among USDA grant recipients

    The USDA is investing $121 million in infrastructure project officials say will combat climate change across rural America.
    The funding will aid people in 49 states, Guam and Puerto Rico in the USDA Rural Development’s effort to help rural residents, businesses and communities address economic development, infrastructure and social service needs.
    Among the funding recipients was Maddux Cattle Company of Imperial, which was awarded $3,847 to install a more energy-efficient electric irrigation motor.
    According to the USDA, the new system is expected to save the company $5,349.61 in electrical costs per year. The improvements are projected to replace 73,988 kilowatt hours, or 71.26% of the company’s energy use per year, which is enough energy to power six homes per year.