Economic trends in the 1960's in the Iowa rural renewal area, Appanoose and Monroe counties, show that the level of economic activity increased in the area but was clearly below the level for the state. Economic trends suggest that to provide economic opportunities in the area, by 1980, comparable to those available on the average to all residents of Iowa, the annual rate of growth in the area in the 1970's must be double the rate of the 1960's. New approaches are required to double the annual rate of growth. These include (1) increases in employment in the manufacturing sectors not related to agriculture, and (2) comprehensive planning at the multicounty level. These plans should include ways to expand employment and improve such facilities and services as housing, water supplies, sewage-disposal facilities, and medical and educational services. (Author/AL)