The Canadian Council on Rural Development, established in December of 1965 as an advisory body to the Minister of Forestry and Rural Development, was created (1) to provide a means for exploration of new dimensions and concepts; (2) to stimulate public discussion on basic policy issues and problems; (3) to prepare and disseminate improved information on rural development programs, policies, and problems; and (4) to create better understanding of rural-development policy and programs on the part of national organizations and to promote their greater involvement in programs and program development. During its first year, the council met 5 times to acquaint itself with the nature and scope of Agricultural and Rural Development Act (ARDA) activities, to understand and assess its members' views, and to receive and discuss reports in the field of integrated low-income rural-area development. Two completed studies commissioned by the council surveyed (1) the views and activities, as related to rural development, of the council's member organizations and (2) research programs and activities under the ARDA. Studies in progress are (1) a reconnaissance survey, assessment, and comparative analysis of ARDA programs and policies at federal and provincial levels and (2) an examination of manpower policy and programs in Canada with special reference to rural and agricultural aspects and implications. (JH)