To obtain practical experience, a research methods class at the University of Colorado (Colorado Springs) undertook a special project to help a nearby county (Park County), assess its planning needs. The county was chosen for its characteristics as a rapidly growing rural area faced with the problems created by mounting population pressure on limited services and resources. The class activity focused on the following specific research questions, each geared to a particular town within the county: methods for easing the conflict between recreational land use and mineral rights, strategies for maintaining a particular quality of life under mounting growth pressures, and remedies for limited water and road services. In groups, the class researched these problems. Reports which included an overview of the study area, surveys of geographic, legal, and environmental factors, descriptions of study methods, and recommendations for planning were presented to the county commissioners. The project was evaluated as highly successful in developing practical field skills and experience. Several recommendations for future projects include the need for written agreements and a greater exchange of information among involved parties. (LP)