During its three-year pilot period, Title V of the Rural Development Act of 1972 demonstrated its potential as part of a broad national rural strategy and should be carefully expanded with special attention to funding, organization, and evaluation policies. Initial funding at $20 million yearly would provide each state with $100,000 (an amount sufficient to support a critical mass of activity) and an additional amount in proportion to its share of the nation's total non-metropolitan population. The 1862 land grant universities should administer Title V during an initial three-year funding period, with other institutions allowed to compete for the program in subsequent periods. Organizational policies should preserve the flexibility of states to design and administer programs suited to local needs; continue to emphasize a rural strategy process rather than the direct funding of facilities, services, or other tangible end products; and integrate research and extension activities, which were treated separately during Title V's pilot stage. Crucial to effective organization is the involvement of local rural people in the identification and attainment of goals. Scientifically credible evaluation is necessary for intelligent allocation of funds and for rational revision and improvement of rural development efforts. (JH)