BARNESVILLE — More than $1 million is being distributed to local municipalities and beyond in the form of grants and loans.

According to information provided by the Sen. Sherrod Brown’s office, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural program has awarded a total of $1,046,500 to six villages and counties in the Ohio Valley and across Southeast Ohio.

“We must ensure that our rural communities have the resources needed to improve the lives and safety of their residents,” said Brown, D-Ohio.

Those awarded include:

— $100,000 grant and a $130,000 loan to the village of Barnesville to purchase a new ambulance, and associated equipment;

— $100,000 grant and a $85,000 loan to Belmont County to purchase a new excavator;

— $95,000 grant and a $78,500 loan to Brush Creek Township to purchase a new dump truck with snowplow and salt spreader attachments, and a new mower;

— $100,000 grant and a $197,000 loan to Monroe County Commissioners to purchase two new dump trucks outfitted for road maintenance and snow removal;

— $100,000 grant to Ohio Hills Health Services to purchase new dental equipment for the expansion and relocation of the Barnesville Family Dental Center; and

— $45,700 grant and a $15,300 loan to the Village of Woodsfield to purchase a new skid steer.

The funds for this grant are a part of the USDA’s Rural Development initiative. Brown helped secure a strong Rural Development title in the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bill, and is continuing to advocate for rural Ohio and programs that promote energy efficiency and clean energy across rural America, according to information provided by his office.