What is an important aspect of the economy in West Virginia alongside agriculture?

An important aspect of the economy in West Virginia alongside agriculture is mining. The state's rich natural resources, particularly coal, have historically played a crucial role in its economic development. Mining, particularly coal mining, has been a mainstay of West Virginia's economy for well over a century, providing employment and contributing significantly to the state's revenue. The coal industry not only supports jobs directly related to extraction but also stimulates other sectors, including transportation and energy production.

Though tourism, manufacturing, and information technology are also significant for the state’s economic landscape, they do not carry the same historical weight or immediate impact on the economy as mining. Agriculture is vital, but mining complements it by contributing substantially to West Virginia's economic framework, especially in the context of the state's geographic and resource characteristics.