As part of a study on development and the quality of life in northwestern Wisconsin, questions concerning important problems, public services, and environmental issues were asked of samples of 150 people in each of 4 west central counties (Clark, Dunn, Eau Claire, and Polk) in 1974. Responses to similar questions asked in a 1973 study of St. Croix County and in a 1974 statewide survey were used for comparisons. Responses to the areas of study were categorized as follows: (1) most important community problems (national economy, local economy, taxes, lack of public services, disorder, lack of cooperation, environment, other/don't know; no problems); (2) public services (job opportunities, public schools and libraries, fire protection, water supply, medical services, crime prevention/control, police relations, public transportation, neighborhood safety at night, streets/roads, stores/retail services, indoor and nearby recreation); (3) environmental concerns (stream, lake, and/or air pollution; soil erosion; wildlife reduction; litter; crowded recreation areas; noise; people living too close). Comparative analysis indicated economic problems of national scope were of primary concern in all counties, though a lack of local jobs and industry were also cited as problems; there was concern for lake pollution; public services were generally adequate, though there was a lack of public transportation and indoor recreation in Dunn, Polk, and St. Croix Counties. (JC)