From 1950 to 1970, the shift from agriculture to industry dominated Ashe County, North Carolina, isolated on the Blue Ridge by rugged terrain and severe weather. Rural farm population declined by 2/3 but rural non-farm population tripled. Many new industries helped shift the bulk of the work force to industry. In 1950, 45% of the work force farmed…

In response to Section 901(e) of the Agricultural Act of 1970, this third annual report on the availability of government and government assisted services to rural areas presents developments pertinent to the objectives of the Rural Development Act of 1972. Presented via narrative and tabular data, emphasis is on the following: (1) net rural to…