The report of the Task Force established by the Canadian National Institute on Mental Retardation concerns a comprehensive planning and organization program for training personnel, especially associate professionals, in the field of mental retardation to provide a more effective utilization of manpower. Summarized are results of surveys of existing training programs available for professional, associate professional, and volunteer personnel, including preschool, home care, residential and occupational-vocational training programs. A training curriculum for associate professionals at four diploma levels is detailed. Improved methods for utilizing all personnel in the field of mental retardation and allied developmental handicaps are recommended, as is a pattern of implementation indicating the specific roles and responsibilities of local, provincial, and national agencies and institutions. A total of 38 recommendations related to manpower training and utilization are presented. (KW)