Intended for the staffs of museums, zoos, and other science related centers, this manual is a step by step guide to establishing a rural science outreach and education program. Based on the experiences of the New Mexico Rural Science Education Project (NMRSEP), this manual focuses on rural elementary schools and on earth and life sciences. Much of its material, however, may be applicable to other educational levels and other areas of science. Chapters outline the following topics: (1) steps necessary to gain support from museum leadership; (2) ways to find funding; (3) program placement within the organization; (4) selection of appropriate project staff; (5) outreach strategies; (6) tips for establishing effective partnerships with rural schools and teachers; (7) identification and development of program content; and (8) evaluation of program effectiveness. Recommended program components include: (1) a review of state and district science goals and requirements; (2) field surveys of local natural resources in each school's community; (3) preparation of resource materials for teachers, based on the field surveys; (4) field trips and inservice workshops for teachers; (5) expansion of rural teachers' education network; and (6) ongoing support from the museum. Many examples and sample activities are provided. Appendices contain a history and description of NMRSEP and an annotated bibliography of over 70 resource materials. (SV)