Extension educators and local agencies surveyed 500 local residents (144 responses) to identify sources of stress. Five variables were significantly associated with stress levels: financial problems, job stress, too little time, major life changes in the past year, and being a woman. A Vision to Action outreach program was designed to help…

A door-to-door rural community survey in seven townships found that 52% had used the recycling facility; of nonusers, 33% knew about it. Older respondents in large households in more remote sections of the community are more likely to use the drop-off centers than others. Those participants who show more satisfaction with the convenience and…

Provides a conceptual framework that identifies three types of public issues and potential roles for public officials, the general public, and Extension professionals in dealing with them. Concludes with some specific advice for Extension educators involved with programming that addresses controversial topics when serving as content or process…

Focus groups of 147 farmers in Geauga County, Ohio, determined that the number of farms declined overall, although townships closer to Cleveland gained farms, including those with the most residential development and highest market value of farmland. Farmers in more rural areas identified urbanization problems; farmers in more urban areas…

Responses from 649 Portage County (Ohio) residents showed that 90% believed county agriculture should be preserved; most felt agriculture was a major economic contributor and the county's rural character was important; 60% disagreed that free market economics should determine land use; tax breaks for farmers were supported. Only 45% thought…