A brief review is presented of some of the organic compounds and reactions that occur in soil. Included are nitrogenous compounds, compounds of phosphorus and sulfur, carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, and aliphatic acids. (BB)

Presented is a brief review of the chemistry of grasses. The significance of the main constituents of agriculturally important grasses is discussed in relation to ruminant nutrition. (BB)

Presented is a brief review of the biochemistry and chemistry of nitrogen fixation. (BB)

Describes the political effects of spare-time correspondence courses on 50 Shanghai university students who served in agricultural brigades in the countryside. (Author/DB)

A survey of 40 radio stations receiving research information from the University of Arkansas agricultural extension received 24 responses indicating that 22 broadcast the information; 20 rated it good or excellent; 17 wanted it more than once per week. Preferences for program length and medium were identified. (SK)

When responses from 135 of 222 New York secondary agriculture teachers were compared with a 1983 study, a 10% decrease in supervised agricultural experience (SAE) was found. Barriers were low level of summer employment, limited release time, less funding for transportation, and scheduling problems. A comprehensive overhaul of the concept and…

Weak links among research, education, and extension often result from their informal nature, national agriculture policy environment, and funding shortages. An integrative systems approach can strengthen links to improve agriculture technology systems. (SK)

Provides a history of farming practices in a densely populated area of Kenya where a recent study of the resource management practices showed positive, not negative, influences of increasing population density on both environmental conservation and productivity. (LZ)

Causes of the degradation of Brazilian Atlantic Forest in the southeastern cocoa region of the State of Bahia are investigated by means of a survey on cocoa planter's forest conservation attitudes. Policies encouraging private forest conservation, and development of forest-conserving agricultural alternatives for landless poor are recommended. (LZ)

Usable needs assessment data from 66 agribusinesses and 61 associations showed they preferred distance education programs that were individually targeted or general programs on contemporary issues or for certification/licensure. Proprietary programs were desired on training, new products, and marketing strategies; however, there was concern about…

Presents interviews with a Mohawk midwife and an Onondaga chief concerning the importance of corn in Native American culture. Compares gestational cycle of corn to that of women. Describes the numerous uses of corn from eating and weaving. Explains how Native Americans and non-Native Americans can be taught about corn by incorporating art,…

Outlines the philosophy and general principles of "primitive" indigenous production technologies and natural resource management systems in North and South America. Discusses indigenous practices that promote sustainable production in gathering, hunting and fishing, minerals extraction, and agriculture. (SV)

Discusses environmental concerns about land near the border between the United States and Mexico and the environmental side agreement contained in the North American Free Trade Agreement. (MKR)

The effects of farm size on farmers' participation in agricultural development programs initiated by the government in Rivers State (Nigeria) were studied. Results for 300 farmers with varying holdings indicated no effect of farm size on participation, suggesting that extension work could advance without regard to farm size. (SLD)

Surveyed county superintendents, Cooperative Extension county directors, and district superintendents to determine their views on agricultural literacy education. Respondents favored addressing the topic in the middle grades (4-9), through science and social studies. Critical topics identified included toxins in food and the environment, water…