This study outlines the processes used by University of Wisconsin--Extension, Lincoln County (UWELC), educators over an eight-year period to facilitate the development of a county land use plan and to guide committees through a review of the new proposed county zoning ordinances based on that plan. As a partner in these projects, UWELC helped create a model of public participation for other counties and municipalities conducting land use planning based on Wisconsin's comprehensive planning law passed in October 1999. UWELC educators drew on the expertise of University of Wisconsin system faculty based outside Lincoln County to provide information about land use and zoning issues.